SHIELD
Celeste, a lighthouse enfiled by a life ring Proper.
CREST
From a wreath Argent and Celeste, a stylized mariner's compass Or garnished Gules bearing a gunstone charged with the silhouetted head of King Kamehameha.
MOTTO
A scroll Argent fimbriated Gules inscribed "KA NAI' A KUKUI O KA PAKIPIKA"
SUPPORTERS
On either side of the shield a Kukui branch fructed Proper.
SEAL
The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white disc enclosed by a dark blue border edged on the outer side with a gold chain and inscribed "USCGC KUKUI" above and "WLB 203" below in gold.
SHIELD
The medium blue of the shield represents the Pacific Ocean, the tender's area of operations. The life ring symbolizes search and rescue missions and humanitarian services while the lighthouse stands for aids to navigation.
CREST
The compass rose represents the ship's far ranging duties and capabilities, while highlighting the vital importance of navigational aids to all sea-going vessels. The profile of King Kamehameha, the last king of Hawaii, symbolizes the proud heritage of the area.
SUPPORTERS:
The Kukui branches, from the state tree of Hawaii, represent the ship's link to the people of Hawaii.
MOTTO:
KA NAI' A KUKUI O KA PAKIPIKA translation: Nai a Kukui is the leader in a school of dolphins that navigates and protects the others. O ka Pakipika means of the Pacific.