Sailing nonprofit cultivating next generation of ocean stewards with free program on Big Island

The nonprofit Kohala Sailing Foundation, a program through Pua Ka ʻIlima Sailing, is making waves for the next generation of ocean sailors and stewards by offering free, hands-on sailing experiences for local youth, many of whom have never before set foot on a sailboat.

For about four hours on the first Sunday of every month, keiki ages 11 to 17 are learning the fundamentals of sailing while building confidence, developing leadership skills, and forging a lifelong connection to the ocean.

“We’ve been at this for about three years now and have run so many kids through the program,” founder Ralph Blancato said. “Kids are engaged and excited when we start going off into the ocean, and some have even told me that it is the best day of their life afterward.”

The captain and crew work to give every kid on board the opportunity to learn what it takes to sail a boat on the ocean — including navigating, understanding wind patterns and handling equipment.

While they are on board tying knots, setting and trimming sails, and steering the sailboat, they also are working on their communication, problem-solving and teamwork skills.

“This is a crash course in technical and interpersonal skills, and they are open to every part of it,” Blancato said. “Our goal is to help shape the next generation of ocean stewards who have what they need to navigate challenges on and off the water.”

While the keiki build upon their life skills, they also learn more about marine life, weather patterns, sustainability, and ocean ecology from educators, scientists and marine experts who come on board to share their expertise.

During the August sail, David McGuire from Shark Stewards talked about the importance of sharks to the ecosystem and how to protect them in Hawaiʻi’s waters.

“I even learned something that day,” Blancato said. “The education on top of the experience is an important aspect of what we do because the kids are able to see what they are learning about right in front of them.”

Ruby Mandini, 20, is both a deckhand for Pua Ka ʻIlima and a former participant of the Kohala Sailing Foundation. In addition to helping with the sails, she spends her time educating keiki on the importance of protecting the ocean.

“One of my favorite things is sharing what I’ve learned — especially when it comes to the reef,” Mandini said. “There’s so much cool stuff to see and explore, from vibrant marine life to the hidden gems most people don’t get to experience. I love showing others why it’s so special and worth protecting.”

Mandini has helped bring youth from Waimea Middle School and the nonprofit Humanity Hale for keiki sail days as well. The time on the water gives students a new perspective, especially for those who struggle in school.

Currently, the revenue earned from private charters funds the free keiki sails every month, according to Blancato. However, he hopes the foundation can find enough funding to offer two to three free keiki sails per month.

Blancato, now 79, is transitioning primary operation of Kohala Sailing Foundation’s Pua Ka ʻIlima charter business and nonprofit keiki excursions to Captain Paul Allen, a co-founder who previously conducted educational sails for youth in Santa Cruz through his nonprofit, Coast is Clear.

“We’ve really let this develop organically, and it has been amazing to see the foundation grow in our mission to give kids more opportunities,” Blancato said. “The focus has always been the kids and opening up their world. They now understand that there are careers out there in boating, marine sciences, charters or even working at the harbor. Sailing truly boosts their confidence.”

The free keiki sails are held on the first Sunday of each month, with drop-off at 10:15 a.m. for a 10:30 departure from Kawaihae Harbor. They return at 2:30 p.m. for a 30-minute dockside cleanup before pickup at 3 p.m. Kids must bring their own lunch and drinks in reusable containers to support minimal waste practices.

To sign youth up for a keiki sail, charter a trip, or donate, visit the Kohala Sailing Foundation website.