The Hawaiki Nui Vaʻa is one of the most prestigious and grueling canoe races in the world, held annually in Tahiti, French Polynesia. Spanning three days and over 80 miles of open ocean, the race connects the islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora, challenging crews with unpredictable swells, strong currents, and intense heat. Rooted deeply in Polynesian voyaging heritage, Hawaiki Nui Vaʻa celebrates strength, unity, and the enduring spirit of the ocean people. In 2025, Wailea Canoe Club from Maui, Hawaiʻi, will proudly represent the entire Hawaiian Islands in this legendary event — carrying with them the mana of their ancestors, the aloha of their community, and the collective pride of Hawaiʻi paddling. Their participation honors the shared Polynesian connection across the Pacific and embodies the values of hard work, respect, and love for the waʻa, uniting Hawaiʻi with their Tahitian brothers and sisters through the ancient art of canoe racing.

A sincere note of appreciation from WCC to all current and future sponsors:

Team, Trust & Tradition — Wailea Canoe Club

No shortcuts. No heroes. Just a hometown crafted crew — united by sweat, salt, trust and love for our wa`a.  At Wailea Canoe Club, we paddle for more than wins. We paddle for each other — for the generations who paved the way, and for the keiki who will one day take our seats. Every stroke is built on true belief: in our teammates, our preparation, in our canoe and in the ocean that tests and teaches us. We’re a small-town club with a big heart — grounded in hard work, commitment, and aloha. Your support helps us maintain our canoes, train our paddlers, and protect the canoe culture that has shaped Maui for generations.

With your help we commit to keep the tradition alive. Every act of support, every dollar, every cheer from shore — it all helps us move forward as one ohana, additionally ensuring a safe return to our island that has given us so much. 

Mahalo Nui, 

Kekoa Cramer

Dane Dudoit

Kekoa Kaho`okele-Santos

Nalu Sampson

Kekupa`a Naeole

Kevin Dudoit

Triston Kaho`okele-Santos

Kainoa Tanoai

Daniel Chun

Chase Vonderheim