Team Spotlight: Shannon Daliva
You may recognize Shannon as a (now retired) professional Polynesian entertainer or from her role as Mrs Hawaiʻi in 2018. At Holo Holo, however, she has established herself as the nuts, bolts, flair, and heart of the operation. Human Resources & Administrative Manager does not seem to do Shannon’s position justice, as she is affectionately referred to as the staff mama bear–a role she embraces wholeheartedly.
Holo History
Kauaʻi has been a constant in Shannon’s life since birth. Born here, Shannon spent summers on Kauaʻi even after moving to the mainland around 8 years old. She returned for her freshman year of high school at Waimea High, living with her grandfather before moving to Oahu to finish high school. She returned “home” to Kauaʻi at 25, and has remained here since. Over 20 years later, she is proud to work for a locally owned and operated business on her home island. With her start at the Sheraton, Shannon has always been a people person–something evident as soon as you meet her. Thriving in a customer-facing environment, she got her start at Holo as a reservationist. In 2002 she moved up to a management role after wearing several hats at Holo. Retail, Group Sales, Marketing, and finally HR were all aspects of the Holo machine Shannon got to know in her years making this place her home away from home.
Why Holo?
When asked what drew her to Holo Holo Charters, Shannon did not hesitate to attribute her home at the company to the original owner, Kevin Millett. With his down-to-earth attitude, Shannon explained that you’d never know he was the owner of such a big company. He gained her respect and eventually her loyalty to the company through his passion for boatbuilding and the trade. The authentic love for the industry proved to be contagious, and being given an opportunity to learn the ropes with a supportive mentor was very powerful. “He invested in me, and I invested in the company,” she explained.
The guidance offered by Kevin and his team helped make Shannon’s transition from customer-facing hospitality roles to nautical sales and marketing seamless. Shannon’s HR background only became more solid as she was given opportunities in a new field, and the rest is history!
Playing Favorites
When asked what her favorite part of the job is, Shannon answered as many others have before – it’s the people. She’s grown attached to Holo because they have long-term employees, but welcomes new team members with her whole heart. Her experience has offered her a level of certainty that newcomers will quickly become part of the tight-knit work ʻohana established at the company, and she’s consistently proven right.
“The people are the best part,” Shannon said, “they give me the drive and motivation…They’re the heartbeat.”
As the HR guru, Shannon feels as invested in the lives of Holo’s employees as she does in the company. “I will give 200% because of them,” she said. As an example of Shannon’s above-and-beyond work ethic, she is also the unofficial interior decorator for the (gorgeously renovated) new office space. From seasonal decor to little gags to keep the staff’s spirits up, it’s obvious that Shannon genuinely enjoys making her work ʻohana happy.
The Takeaway
As a tour with Holo Holo is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we wanted to know what Shannon’s perspective was on guest takeaways. “Performance vessels and unmatched customer service sets us apart,” she explained. The guest takeaway is that booking with Holo Holo is an experience from start to finish. Customers can call and book directly with the reservation staff to ensure they’ve selected a tour tailored to their group’s needs. The warm welcome of check-in, the knowledgeable professionalism of the crew, the excellent onboard food and drink service, a safe return, and of course the stunning views all contribute to the ultimate guest experience. Performance vessels built for a smooth ride certainly don’t hurt, either. The 7-hour Super Tour is what Shannon calls a “bucket list” item, as it is an unforgettable way to experience the magic of the Nāpali Coast.
As invested as Shannon is at work, she is equally as invested at home. She describes herself as family-centric at both places. In her spare time, she is often enjoying a meal and catching up with her wonderful husband and two daughters. Shannon is looking forward to 2025–another great year at Holo, good conversation with loved ones over food, and the joy of being a first-time grandmother. Mahalo for all you do, Shannon!
