Hawaii Ocean Watch was initially founded and fueled by a couple of ocean recreation professionals.
As dive masters, underwater camera people, boat captains, and other crew members or office staff, we deal with unsafe and unsustainable situations every day.
We believe most people have the innate desire to do the right thing, but often lack the knowledge to make informed decisions.
By raising awareness and passing information, we hope to inspire others to make everyday conservation a part of their daily lives.
Our board of directors
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Renata Goetzendorfer
President, Director
As an animal and nature advocate, Renata constantly looks for more refined ways to enjoy and preserve.
Coming from landlocked Austria and Colorado, observing marine life in the warm waters of Hawaii has been a transformational experience for Renata.
Her unbridled enthusiasm and her background in Advertising and Product Development have been a true gift for Hawaii Ocean Watch.
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James L. Wing
Founder, Director; Secretary, Treasurer
Acknowledged as the foremost authority on manta-human interaction, James has logged more hours underwater with manta rays than anyone in the world.
As a result of his work in print and broadcast media, tens of millions of people have learned about the mantas of Kona - and educated about the urgent need to protect them.
Read more about James at mantarayadvocates.com
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Martina Wing
Co-Founder
Originally from Germany, Martina first set foot on Hawaii in 1998 and immediately fell in love with the abundant marine life.
Combining her organizational skills and her background as an environmental engineer with her experience with mantas, Martina makes a real difference protecting marine life and the ocean ecosystem of Hawaii.
Read more about Martina at mantarayadvocates.com and martinawing.com.
Our Volunteers
Our founders are dedicated to the cause, but they can’t do it all by themselves!
We are currently looking for passionate ocean advocates who are willing to dedicate some weekly time to the cause.