Photo: Polynesians explored and settled the Pacific in wa-a kaulua, such as the Hokule'a, pictured above. The Hokule'a, Polynesian Voyaging Craft, photo by Noah Paoa of the Polynesian Voyaging Society 2023
In the late afternoon of November 8, the much-anticipated Polynesian voyaging canoe, the Hokule’a, arrived in the San Diego Harbor and docked at the San Diego Maritime Museum. Local sailing and ocean enthusiasts paddled out to greet and escort the canoe. Following the landing protocols, the crew and staff were welcomed by the Kumeyaay Nation and Native Hawaiian hosts who honored them with Bird Songs and chants. Blessings were given, the conch shell was blown, the group debarked, and proceeded to Waterfront Park. Spectators lined their path, some holding leis, and flowers for the honored guests. Local dignitaries gave welcome speeches, reminders of common goals, and words of celebration. Halaus (Polynesian dance groups), and Kumeyaay singers and dancers waited in turn to welcome the voyagers.
San Diego was the last stop on the US leg of the Moananuikea voyage, a voyage that began in Alaska, traveled to Washington, Oregon, then headed to ports in California, including Eureka, San Francisco, Monterey, Marina Del Rey, Newport, Dana Point, and San Diego. This segment of the voyage covered 2,800 miles with a diverse crew of experienced men and women. Those who served on this leg included a cook, a filmmaker, a PhD engineering student, a marine biology research assistant, a school principal, and others. All have a similar quest and that is to connect with others who have a common passion for preserving culture and the environment.
The mission of this voyage — Malama honua (caring for Island Earth) — is to use traditional Polynesian sailing techniques, such as the stars, signs in nature, and the surroundings, while sailing throughout the Pacific. The connections made along the voyage gather those who long for a meaningful relationship to the ocean and nature. The creation of the Hokule’a and its journeys revive the “legacy of exploration, courage and ingenuity that brought the first Polynesians to Hawai’i.” It is a revitalization of non-instrument navigation, the traditional ways of the ancestors.
Moananuiakea is Hokulea’s 15th major voyage in her first 50years. It was artist Herb Kane who dreamed of constructing a double hulled sailing canoe (wa’a kaulua) like those of his ancestors. It had been over 600years since the last of these canoes had been seen, and Kane felt the project would connect the past to the present. People of diverse backgrounds and skillsets joined together in the construction of the craft. Since she was built and launched in the 1970s, the canoe continues to attract those who wish “to protect our most cherished values and places from disappearing.”
Founded in 1973, the Polynesian Voyaging Society was created to perpetuate the art and science of traditional Polynesian voyaging. It provides experiential educational programs and connects groups who wish to honor and protect the ocean. It has revitalized ancient navigation and brought revelations of how the ancestors navigated, found islands, and settled Polynesia.
The people and the stories of the Hokule’a are many. Those interested may enjoy reading detailed information on the Hokule’a website. It includes the history, detailed voyage information, various crews and ports, photographs and video of the esteemed wa’a. Also included is the tale of one particular hero, Eddie Aikau, who lost his life, but has lived on in stories and legend.
After her visit in San Diego, the Hokule’a will return to Hawai’i. Although the canoe may have sailed back to the Islands, the risk of El Nino predictions prevented this journey. PVS CEO Nainoa Thompson said, “The signs for adverse weather are there, and we need to pay attention and respect. That’s what we do. We watch what nature is telling us and make choices based on it.”
Once back home, the Hokule’a will sail to Lahaina, Maui, avital center of the voyaging community. As most know, Lahaina suffered a catastrophic fire in August of this year. The wa’a kalua may offer comfort and healing to the island and its people.
Some information in this article was provided by the Hokule’a website.
