Two novel p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene-based chiral organocatalysts derived from l-proline have been developed to catalyze direct aldol reactions between cyclohexanone and aromatic aldehydes in water. Under the optimal conditions, high yields (up to 95%), enantioselectivities (up to 90%), and moderate diastereoselectivities (up to 65:35) were obtained. Considering the catalytic inefficiency of sole proline for the aldol reaction in water, these results clearly display the enormous effect of the hydrophobic part of calix[4]arene of compound A. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.