LAHAINA — Company President Gabe Lucy last week announced an organization change that emphasizes Trilogy’s commitment to sustainable tourism and its pledge to remain an industry leader.

Capt. Riley Coon has transitioned from Trilogy’s director of operations into the director of sustainable tourism, a new role created by Lucy. In his place, Patrick Alexander will assume all operation duties as the new director of operations.

Trilogy’s operations include all captains, crew, SNUBA guides and Maintenance Department. The director’s role, though vast, will aim to keep Trilogy solvent during the pandemic and continue to build upon its longstanding reputation as an industry leader.

“Patrick has the vision, energy and leadership to strengthen our teams while watching the bottom line,” Lucy commented. “His focus on efficiencies and safety, while remaining flexible, is paramount in operating wisely during this pandemic.”

Trilogy has practiced ecotourism since its start 48 years ago, long before it became a catch phrase. CEO and co-founder Jim Coon was instrumental in many environmental initiatives that protected Maui’s marine resources and set a high bar for other operators in the boating industry: not pumping out at sea and setting up the day-use-mooring system being two examples.

Trilogy is still an ecotour operator but sees the need to develop its commitment to the three tenants of Sustainable Tourism: community, conservation, and host-culture, as part of the company’s kuleana.

“As we continue to give back to our community, protect our environment and perpetuate the Hawaiian host culture, it takes intention, focus and financial resources” Lucy said. “That is why we are setting aside part of our operating budget towards sustainable tourism initiatives — we want to make a lasting impact.”

During Trilogy’s six-month shutdown, at the onset of the pandemic, teams of volunteers were organized to inspect and report moorings around Maui, pack food boxes at the Maui Food Bank, tour cultural sites with Lahaina Restoration Foundation, and host a Free Cinnamon Roll and Coffee drive-by. Much of this outreach was led and organized by Riley Coon.

The new Sustainable Tourism role, held by Riley, will manage Trilogy’s Blue’Aina Campaign, work on fundraising events for the community and non-profits, and learn from Maui and Lanai kupuna for cultural trainings that will help both employees and visitors.