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Our Story: Built by Hand, Guided by Heart

Hawaiʻi boat builderHolo Holo Charters began with a boy named Kevin Millett, who grew up in Southern California with an unstoppable love for the ocean. By age seven, he was already surfing and sailing. As a teen, he immersed himself in boating—often skipping school to spend time at Newport Harbor. His dream was clear: build his own boat and sail the world.

That dream took a major turn when a friend suggested moving to Hawaiʻi to build catamarans. Kevin embraced the opportunity, sailing his trimaran, Breezin’, across the Pacific to Lahaina, Maui. There, he sharpened his boat-building skills, eventually landing on Kauaʻi, where he would bring Holo Holo Charters to life.

In 1997, Kevin designed and hand-built the company’s first vessel, the 65’ motor catamaran Holoholo, in a former pineapple cannery in Lawai. When it launched in December, it marked more than just a maiden voyage—it launched a company committed to going beyond the norm, offering unforgettable ocean experiences with quality, integrity, and aloha.

Kauaʻi boat toursA New Chapter: The Next Generation

Today, Kevin has passed the helm to Adrian and Chandra Bertsch. Adrian, a talented boat builder, and Chandra, a Kauaʻi resident with deep community roots, have been with Holo Holo since 2012. Adrian began in maintenance and rose to Lead Engineer; Chandra started in sales and marketing and became General Manager. Together, they bring a rare blend of technical expertise, leadership, and heart.

Now leading the company, Adrian and Chandra are preserving what Kevin started—while expanding on it with fresh vision and purpose. They’re building new, modern catamarans right here on Kauaʻi, continuing a tradition of local craftsmanship and innovation. They’re also elevating cultural stewardship, helping guests connect with Hawaiian values and ensuring the business gives back to the community it calls home.

Leading with Values, Building for the Future

a group of people standing in front of a mountainAs Kevin enjoys a well-deserved retirement, he remains a mentor and guide. Meanwhile, Adrian and Chandra are not only growing the company—they’re growing their family. Balancing leadership and parenthood, they are focused on creating something that lasts: a values-driven company culture that puts people first.

a man sitting on a tableAt Holo Holo, it’s not just about boat tours—it’s about creating a place where team members are valued, supported, and inspired. It’s about building careers, not just jobs. With a strong foundation and forward-thinking leadership, Holo Holo Charters remains rooted in Kauaʻi, driven by purpose, and committed to doing things the right way—for our guests, our team, and our island home.