Hokulea

For the Polynesian name for the brightest star in the constellation Boötes, see Arcturus.

The correct title of this article is Hōkūleʻa. It appears incorrectly here because of browser support limitations.

Hokule'a arrival in Honolulu from Tahiti in 1976

Stern of portside hull and center steering oar

Hōkūle‘a, under tow, in Ōshima channel, Yamaguchi-prefecture, Japan

Hōkūleʻa is a performance-accurate full-scale replica of a waʻa kaulua, a Polynesian double-hulled voyaging canoe. Launched on 8 March 1975 by the Polynesian Voyaging Society, she is best known for her 1976 Hawaiʻi to Tahiti voyage performed with Polynesian navigation techniques, without modern navigational instruments. The primary goal of the voyage was to further support the anthropological theory of the Asiatic origin of native Oceanic people (Oceania maps:detail, region), of Polynesians and Hawaiians in particular, as the result of purposeful trips through the Pacific, as opposed to passive drifting on currents, or sailing from the Americas. (Scientific results of 2008, from DNA analysis, illuminate this theory of Polynesian settlement.) A secondary goal of the project was to have the canoe and voyage "serve as vehicles for the cultural revitalization of Hawaiians and other Polynesians." (Finney, Voyage of Rediscovery, p. 71)

Since the 1976 voyage to Tahiti and back, Hōkūle‘a has completed nine voyages to Micronesia, Polynesia, Japan, Canada, and the United States, all using ancient wayfinding techniques of celestial navigation. Her last completed voyage began 19 January 2007, when Hōkūle‘a left Hawaiʻi with the voyaging canoe Alingano Maisu on a voyage through Micronesia (map) and ports in southern Japan. The voyage was expected to take five months. On 9 June 2007, Hōkūle‘a completed the "One Ocean, One People" voyage to Yokohama, Japan. On April 5, 2009, Hōkūle‘a returned to Honolulu following a roundtrip training sail to Palmyra Atoll, undertaken to develop skills of potential crewmembers for Hōkūle‘a's eventual circumnavigation of the earth.

On May 18, 2014, Hōkūle‘a and her sister vessel, Hikianalia embarked from Oahu for "Malama Honua", a three-year circumnavigation of the earth. The journey will cover 47,000 nautical miles with stops at 85 ports in 26 different countries.

When not on a voyage, Hōkūle‘a is moored at the Marine Education Training Center (METC) of Honolulu Community College in Honolulu Harbor.

Construction

Voyaging canoes were made from wood, whereas Hōkūle‘a incorporates plywood, fiberglass and resin. Hōkūle‘a measures LOA, at beam, displaces when empty and can carry another of gear, supplies and 12 to 16 crew. Fully laden, with her sail area, she is capable of speeds of while reaching in 15-to-25-knot (17 to 29 mph; 28 to 46 km/h) trade winds. Her twin masts are rigged either crab claw or Marconi style and a small jib. She is steered with a long paddle. She has no auxiliary motor so she is towed into harbor by her escort vessel when required. Her name means "star of gladness" in Hawaiian, which refers to Arcturus, a guiding zenith star for Hawaiian navigators. Arcturus passes directly overhead at Hawaiʻi's latitude helping sailors find the islands.

Pius "Mau" Piailug

Description of Hōkūle‘a, the boat, is only part of her story, since she navigates without instruments. In 1975, no Hawaiian living knew these ancient techniques for blue water voyaging. To enable the voyage, the Polynesian Voyaging Society recruited the Satawalese Master Navigator Mau Piailug [of the Weriyeng school in the Caroline Islands (map) of the Federated States of Micronesia (map) ] to share his knowledge of non-instrument navigation. While as many as six Micronesian navigators had mastered these traditional methods as of the mid-1970s, only Mau was willing to share his knowledge with the Polynesians.

Mau, who "barely spoke English," decided that by reaching beyond his own culture, sharing what had been closely guarded knowledge, he could possibly save it from extinction. Through his collaboration with the Polynesian Voyaging Society, Mau's mentorship helped "spark pride in the Hawaiian and Polynesian culture", leading to "a renaissance of voyaging, canoe building, and non-instrument navigation that has continued to grow, spreading across Polynesia (map) and reaching to its far corners of Aotearoa [New Zealand] and Rapanui [Easter Island]." (Thompson, Reflections on Mau Piailug, 1996)

List of voyages

^* Shown at first mention of the crew person's name, denotes this person has died according to Polynesian Voyaging Society website, or other source as noted.

1976 Inaugural Voyage

Led by Captain Elia David Kuʻualoha "Kawika" Kapahulehua^* and Navigator Pius "Mau" Piailug^*, Hōkūle‘a departed Honolua Bay, Maui, Hawaiʻi for Papeʻete, Tahiti, (voyage map) as part of the celebration of the United States Bicentennial. Mau navigated the leg to Tahiti without instruments while the return leg employed European-developed tools (compass, nautical charts, sextant, chronometer, dividers, parallel rulers, pencil, nautical almanac).

Legs

• Honolua Bay, Maui, Hawaiʻi (map), United States – Papeʻete, Tahiti (map), Society Islands (map), French Polynesia (map): 1 May 1976 to 4 June 1976

1976 Crew to Tahiti

Navigator: Mau Piailug; Captain: "Kawika" Kapahulehua; Crew: Clifford Ah Mow^*, Milton "Shorty" Bertelmann, Ben R. Finney, Charles Tommy Holmes^*, Sam Kalalau^*, Boogie Kalama, Buffalo Keaulana, John Kruse, Douglas "Dukie" Kuahulu^*, David Henry Lewis^*, David B. K. "Dave" Lyman III^*, William "Billy" Richards, Rodo Tuku Williams.^*

• Papeʻete, Tahiti, French Polynesia – Hawaiʻi, United States: 5 July 1976 to 26 July 1976

1976 Crew to Hawaiʻi

Navigator: James "Kimo" Lyman; Captain: "Kawika" Kapahulehua; Crew: Abraham "Snake" Ah Hee, Andy Espirto^*, Mel Kinney, Francis Kainoa Lee, Gordon Piʻianaiʻa, Leonard Puputauiki, Penny Rawlins, Keani Reiner^*, Charles Nainoa "Nainoa" Thompson, Maka'ala Yates, Ben Young.

1977 Kealaikahiki Project

In English, the Hawaiian "Ke ala i kahiki" means "the path to Tahiti." The "Kealaikahiki Project" recreated the traditional Kealaikahiki Point departure of ancient voyages to Tahiti. Gordon Piʻianaiʻa's idea to recreate traditional departures took Hōkūle‘a southeast, across Kealaikahiki Channel between Lānaʻi and Kahoʻolawe Islands, past Kealaikahiki Point, into the ʻAlenuihāhā Channel and the northeast trade winds. The object was to determine whether Hōkūle‘a, departing from west of the 1976 departure point, would bisect the more easterly 1976 voyage track, and so likely reach Tahiti were she to continue. After heading south for two days, Hōkūle‘a did not bisect the 1976 voyage track, but likely would have further south than anticipated. She came about and returned to Hawaiʻi. The traditional departure point would be used for subsequent sailings to Tahiti.

Legs

• Honolulu, Oʻahu – Manele Bay, Lānaʻi – Kealaikahiki Point, Kahoʻolawe, Hawaiʻi (map), United States – a point at sea, ninety miles south of Ka Lae, Hawaiʻi Island – Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, United States: 1 April 1977 to 10 April 1977

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: Dave Lyman; Crew: Teené Froiseth, Sam Kaʻai, Sam Kalalau, John Kruse, "Kimo" Lyman, Jerome "Jerry" Muller, Gordon Piʻianaiʻa, Norman Piʻianaiʻa, Michael A. Tongg^*, Makaʻala Yates

1978 Tahiti Voyage

A second voyage to Tahiti was aborted when Hōkūle‘a capsized and swamped in high wind and seas southwest of the Island of Molokaʻi, five hours after departing Honolulu's Ala Wai Harbor. The crew hung on to the swamped canoe through the night. Flares launched were unseen by passing aircraft; the emergency radio reached no help. By mid-morning, with no sign of imminent rescue and the swamped canoe drifting farther from land, Eddie Aikau, a North Shore, Oʻahu, lifeguard of the year, 1977 Duke Kahanamoku champion and big-wave surfer, valiantly attempted to paddle a surfboard 12–15 miles (19–24 km) to Lānaʻi for help. About nine hours later, flares launched by the crew were spotted by a Hawaiian Airlines flight which circled Hōkūle‘a and radioed the United States Coast Guard ("USCG"). Half an hour later, a USCG search and rescue helicopter was hovering overhead; Hōkūle‘a crew was rescued. The following morning, the USCGC Cape Corwin towed the vessel, from 22 miles southwest of Lāʻau Point, Molokaʻi, back to Honolulu. Despite intensive land, air and sea search, Eddie Aikau was never seen again. Hōkūle‘a carries a plaque in his memory. Future voyages were accompanied by an escort vessel.

Legs

• Ala Wai Harbor, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, United States bound for Papeʻete, Tahiti, French Polynesia: 16 March 1978 to 18 March 1978 (recovery followed by USCG investigation)

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: Dave Lyman; First Mate: Leon Paoa Sterling^*; "Snake" Ah Hee, Edward Ryan Makua Hanai "Eddie" Aikau^*, Charman Akina, M.D., Wedemeyer Au, Bruce Blankenfeld, Kilila Hugho, Sam Kaʻai, John Kruse, Marion Lyman, Buddy McGuire, Norman Piʻianaiʻa, Curt Sumida, Teikiheʻepo "Tava" Taupu.

1980 Tahiti Voyage

Nainoa Thompson recreated the 1976 voyage to Tahiti to become the first Native Hawaiian in modern times to navigate a canoe thousands of miles without instruments. His mentor, Mau Piailug, sailed as observer. After 29 days at sea, before sighting Mataiva on the way to Tahiti, Mau offered Nainoa only one correction; this was of Nainoa's interpretation of sighting a land-based seabird in mid-morning flight. Such birds generally fly seaward for food at morning and return to land in the evening. While it can usually be assumed that land lies opposite the birds' morning flight direction, this bird spotted mid-morning (during nesting season), carried a fish in its beak. This detail suggested to Mau that the bird's morning flight was not away from land but toward it. The bird was not flying seaward to find more fish, but rather, was returning to land, to feed its young. Leading up to the voyage, an extensive, formal crew training program helped to ensure that the voyage would be as safe as possible. Escort boat Ishka followed for safety.

Legs

• Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island, United States – Papeʻete, Tahiti, Society Islands, French Polynesia: 15 March 1980 to 17 April 1980

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: Gordon Piʻianaiʻa; Chad Kalepa Baybayan, "Shorty" Bertelmann, Harry Ho, Sam Kaʻai, Michael "Buddy" McGuire, Marion Lyman-Mersereau, Mau Piailug, Steve Somsen, Joanne Kahanamoku Sterling^*, Leon Paoa Sterling, "Tava" Taupu; Patrick Koon Hung Piʻimauna Charles "Pat" Aiu, MD^* 

• Papeʻete, Tahiti, French Polynesia – Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, United States: 13 May 1980 to 6 June 1980

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: Gordon Piʻianaiʻa; Wedemeyer Au, Chad Baybayan, Bruce Blankenfeld, "Snake" Ah Hee, John Kruse, Kainoa Lee, James "Kimo" Lyman, Mau Piailug, Steven Somsen, Leon Paoa Sterling, Michael Tongg, Nathan Wong

1985 - 1987 Voyage of Rediscovery

For voyages across the International Date Line, dates shown below are standardized on Hawai‘i time.

In the "Voyage of Rediscovery," Hōkūle‘a traveled a total distance of 12,000 miles (19,000 km) to destinations throughout Polynesia. Inviting fellow Polynesians to join the crew on legs of the voyage extended Hōkūle‘a's success in revitalizing interest in Polynesian culture. For instance, professional Tongan sea captain Sione Taupeamuhu was aboard during a night passage from Tongatapu to Nomuka in the northerly Haʻapai Islands group of Tonga (map). He was skeptical that Hōkūle‘a navigator Nainoa Thompson could find Nomuka without instruments. When Nomuka appeared on the horizon at dawn as anticipated, Taupeamuhu remarked, "Now I can believe the stories of my ancestors." Dorcas and Maalea served as escort vessels.

Legs

• Hawaiʻi Island, United States – Papeʻete, Society Islands, French Polynesia: 10 July 1985 to 11 August 1985

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: "Shorty" Bertelmann; Crew: Clay Bertelmann^*, Dennis Chun, Richard Tai Crouch, Harry Ho, Dr. Larry Magnussen, "Buddy" McGuire, Mau Piailug, Thomas Reity (Satawal), James Shizuru, "Tava" Taupu

• Papeʻete, Tahiti, French Polynesia – Rarotonga, Cook Islands (map): 30 August 1985 to 14 September 1985

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: Gordon Piʻianaiʻa; Crew: "Snake" Ah Hee, Dr. Pat Aiu, Chad Baybayan, Karim Cowan (Tahiti), Bob Krauss, John Kruse, Vic Lipman, Mel Paoa, Mau Piailug, Abraham Piʻianaiʻa, Chad Piʻianaiʻa, Michael Tongg, Andrew Tutai (Cook Islands), Peter Sepelalur (Satawal), Leon Paoa Sterllng, Puaniho Tauotaha (Tahiti), Cliff Watson. (Bob Krauss, journalist; Karim Cowan, and Puaniho Tauotaha were crew members only from Tahiti to Raʻiatea)

• Rarotonga, Cook Islands – Waitangi, North Island, New Zealand (map): 21 November  1985 to 7 December 1986

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain and 1st Watch Captain: "Shorty" Bertelmann; 2nd Watch Captain: Leon Paoa Sterling; 3rd Watch Captain: "Tava" Taupu (Marquesas); Crew: Dr. Pat Aiu, Chad Baybayan, Bruce Blankenfeld, Stanley Conrad (New Zealand), Dr. Ben Finney, Harry Ho, "Buddy" McGuire, "Billy" Richards, James Shizuru, Michael Tongg

• Waitangi, New Zealand – Nukuʻalofa, Tongatapu Island, Kingdom of Tonga : 1 May 1986 to 11 May 1986

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: Leon Paoa Sterling; Crew: "Snake" Ah Hee, Dr. Pat Aiu, Carlos Andrade, Chad Baybayan, Philip Ikeda, John Keolanui, "Kimo" Lyman, Mau Piailug, Scott Sullivan, Michael Tongg, Sione Uaine Ula (Tonga)

• Nukuʻalofa, Tonga – Pago Pago, Tutuila Island, American Samoa (map): 23 May 1986 to 25 May 1986

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: Leon Paoa Sterling; Crew: Dr. Pat Aiu, Carlos Andrade, Gilbert Ane, Gail Evenari (California), Chad Baybayan, Hector Busby (New Zealand), Philip Ikeda, Sam Kaʻai, John Keolanui, "Kimo" Lyman, Mau Piailug, Scott Sullivan, Jo Anne Sterling, Sione Taupeamuhu (Tonga), Michael Tongg, Sione Uaine Ula (Tonga)

• Ofu Island, American Samoa – Aitutaki, Cook Islands: 7 July 1986 to 16 July 1986

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: "Shorty" Bertelmann; Crew: Clay Bertelmann, Harry Ho, Pauahi Ioane, Bernard Kilonsky, Ben Lindsey, Mel Paoa, Mau Piailug, Tua Pittman (Cook Islands), "Tava" Taupu (Marquesas)

• Aitutaki – Rarotonga: 10 August 1986 to 11 August 1986

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Crew: Dr. Pat Aiu, Chad Baybayan, Dede Bertelmann, Bruce Blankenfeld, "Wally" Froseith, Pauahi Ioane, "Jerry" Muller, Mau Piailug, Tua Pittman (Rarotonga), Reo Tuiravakai (Aitutaki), Raukete Tuiravakai (Aitutaki)

• Rarotonga, Cook Islands – Tautira, Tahiti Iti, Society Islands, French Polynesia: 12 August 1986 to 21 August 1986

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Crew: "Snake" Ah Hee, Dr. Pat Aiu, Chad Baybayan, Bruce Blankenfeld, Wallace "Wally" Froiseth, Harry Ho, Glen Oshiro, Mau Piailug, Richard Rhodes, Michael Tongg, Aaron Young

• Tautira – Papeʻete, Tahiti Nui – Tautira: 27 March 1987 to 29 March 1987

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Crew: U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka, Chad Baybayan; "Wally" Froiseth, Harry Ho, Kilo Kaina, Michele Kapana, Will Kyselka, Russell Mau, Honolulu City Councilman Arnold Morgado; Abraham Piʻianaiʻa, Tutaha Salmon (Tahiti), Cary Sneider (California), "Tava" Taupu (Marquesas), Michael Tongg, Aaron Young. Senator Akaka and Councilman Morgado joined the crew in Papeʻete.

• Tautira, Tahiti Iti, Society Islands – Rangiroa Atoll, Tuamotus (map): 2 April 1987 to 4 April 1987

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Crew; Chad Baybayan, Clay Bertelmann, "Wally" Froiseth, Rey Jonsson, Solomon Kahoʻohalahala, Will Kyselka, Charles Larson, Mel Paoa, Cary Sneider (California), "Tava" Taupu, Michael Tongg, Clifford Watson, Dr. Nathan Wong, Elisa Yadao, Aaron Young

• Rangiroa, Tuamotus, French Polynesia – Kualoa, Oʻahu (map), Hawaiʻi, United States: 24 April 1987 to 23 May 1987.

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Captain: "Shorty" Bertelmann; Crew: "Snake" Ah Hee, Dr. Pat Aiu, Chad Baybayan, Bruce Blankenfeld, Stanley Conrad (New Zealand), Eni Hunkin (Samoa), Tua Pittman (Cook Islands), Dixon Stroup, Puaniho Tauotaha (Tahiti), Sione Taupeamuhu (Tonga), "Tava" Taupu (Marquesas), Michael Tongg, Clifford Watson, Elisa Yadao

1992 No Nā Mamo

Hōkūle‘a sailed to Tahiti, Raʻiatea, and on to Rarotonga for the Sixth Festival of Pacific Arts, then, via Tahiti, sailed back to Hawaiʻi. This voyage, known as "No Nā Mamo," or "For the Children," was designed to train a new generation of voyagers to sail Hōkūle‘a, to share values and knowledge of voyaging, and to celebrate the revival of canoe building and non-instrument navigation. The voyage included an educational component where Hawaiian students could track the progress of the canoe through daily radio reports. Kama Hele escorted the voyage.

Legs

• Honaunau, Hawaiʻi Island, United States – Papeʻete, Tahiti, Society Islands, French Polynesia: 17 June 1992 to 15 July 1992

Crew

Crew: Nainoa Thompson, Sailing master; Chad Baybayan, Co-navigator; "Shorty" Bertelmann, Co-navigator; Clay Bertelmann, Captain; Nailima Ahuna, Fisherman; Dennis J. Chun, Historian; Maulili Dixon, Cook; Kainoa Lee; Liloa Long; Jay Paikai; Chadd Kaʻonohi Paishon; Ben Tamura, M.D.; "Tava" Taupu

• Papeʻete – Raʻiatea: 10 September 1992 to 16 September 1992

Crew

Crew: Nainoa Thompson, Sailing master; Chad Baybayan, Navigator; Keahi Omai, Navigator; "Billy" Richards, Captain; Gilbert Ane; John Eddy, Film Documentation; Clement "Tiger" Espere^*; Brickwood Galuteria, Communications; Harry Ho; Sol Kahoohalahala; Dennis Kawaharada, Communications; Reggie Keaunui; Keone Nunes, Oral Historian; Eric Martinson; Nalani Minton, Traditional Medicine; Esther Mookini, Hawaiian Language; Mel Paoa; Cliff Watson, Film Documentation; Nathan Wong, M.D.

• Raʻiatea, Society Islands, French Polynesia – Mauke, Cook Islands – Aitutaki – Rarotonga: 20 September 1992 to 16 October 1992

Crew

Crew: Nainoa Thompson, Sailing master; Chad Baybayan, Navigator; Gordon Piʻianaiʻa, Captain; Moana Doi, Photo Documentation; John Eddy, Film Documentation; Ben Finney, Scholar; "Wally" Froseith, Watch Captain; Brickwood Galuteria, Communications; Harry Ho; Kaʻau McKenney; Keahi Omai; Keone Nunes, Oral Historian; "Billy" Richards, Watch Captain; Cliff Watson, Film Documentation Cook Islands Additional Crew: Clive Baxter (Aitutaki); Tura Koronui (Atiu); Dorn Marsters (Aitutaki); Tua Pittman (Rarotonga); Nga Pouʻaʻo (Mitiaro); Maʻara Tearaua (Mangaia); Peʻia Tuaʻati (Mauke)

• Rarotonga, Cook Islands – Papeʻete, Tahiti, Society Islands, French Polynesia – Honaunau, Hawaiʻi Island, United States: 26 October 1992 to 1 December 1992

Crew

Co-navigators: Bruce Blankenfeld, "Kimo" Lyman; Captain: Michael Tongg; Sailing Master: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captain and Cook: "Snake" Ah Hee; Watch Captain: Aaron Young; Ship's Doctor: Pat Aiu, M.D; Historian: Carlos Andrade; Fisherman: Terry Hee; Communications: Scott Sullivan; Crew: Archie Kalepa, Suzette Smith, Wallace Wong, Gary Yuen

1995 Nā ʻOhana Holo Moana

Spring voyage segment

In the spring, Hōkūle‘a, along with sister ships Hawai‘iloa and Makali‘i, sailed from Hawaiʻi to Tahiti. They participated in a gathering of voyaging canoes from across Oceania at nearby Marae Taputapuatea, Raʻiatea, which led to the lifting of a six-centuries-old tapu on voyaging from Raʻiatea, then all the canoes returned to Tahiti, sailed to Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas, then on to Hawaiʻi. This was only the first part of a voyage spanning spring and summer known as "Nā ʻOhana Holo Moana," or The Voyaging Families of the Vast Ocean. Hōkūle‘a was escorted by Gershon II under Steve Kornberg; Rizaldar, under Randy Wichman, also escorted.

Legs

• Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island, United States – Papeʻete, Tahiti, Society Islands, French Polynesia: 11 February 1995 to 4 March 1995

Crew

Sailing Master: Nainoa Thompson; Navigators: Kaʻau McKenney, Keahi Omai; Crew: Shantell Ching, Junior Coleman, Catherine Fuller, Harry Ho, Mau Piailug, Sesario Sewralur (son of Mau Piailug), Ben Tamura, MD; "Tava" Taupu, Michael Tongg, Kamaki Worthington. After Hōkūle‘a sighted Tikehau on 2 March 1995, Navigators Kaʻau McKenney and Keahi Omai turned over navigation to their apprentices, Junior Coleman and Sesario Sewralur, who guided the vessel to landfall in Papeʻete, Tahiti.

• Tautira, Tahiti – Fare, Huahine – Marae Taputapuatea, Raʻiatea – Tahaʻa – Tautira, Tahiti: 16 March 1995 to 24 March 1995

Crew

This crew may be the same as on the previous leg, but this is speculation.

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

• Tautira, Tahiti, Society Islands – Taiohae Bay, Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands: 6 April 1995 to 15 April 1995

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Chad Baybayan;

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

• Taiohae Bay, Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, French Polynesia – Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island, United States: 20 April 1995 to 7 May 1995

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Chad Baybayan; Co-assistant navigators: Moana Doi, Piʻikea Miller; Watch Captains: "Snake" Ah Hee, "Tava" Taupu, Michael Tongg; Medical Officer: Mel Paoa; Fisherman and Teacher: Nainoa Thompson; Cook: Gary Yuen; Crew: Clyde Aikau, Sam Pautu, Mau Piailug, Sesario Sewralur, Gary Suzuki

Summer voyage segment

In the summer: Hōkūle‘a and Hawai‘iloa sailed the West Coast of the United States. Both vessels were shipped from Hawaiʻi to Seattle, Washington, after which they sailed to Vancouver, British Columbia. They visited intermediate ports, often where local American Indian tribes hosted them to a dinner and gift exchange. From Vancouver, Hawai‘iloa sailed as far north as Haines, Alaska. Hōkūle‘a sailed south to San Diego via Portland, Oregon, and the California ports of San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Long Beach. The voyaging canoes were shipped back to Hawaiʻi: Hōkūle‘a from San Pedro; Hawai‘iloa from Seattle. This summer part of the voyage promoted cultural and educational exchanges with Hawaiians (some of whom had never been to Hawaiʻi), Native Americans, and other people living on the United States West Coast.

Legs

• Stops in the Puget Sound and Straits of Georgia and Juan de Fuca area:

1. Pier 57, Seattle, Washington, United States: 19 May 1995 to 26 May 1995
   Hōkūle‘a crew participated in National Maritime Week festivities and shared a dinner hosted by the Muckleshoot, Puyallup, Suquamish nations and Wayfinders of the Pacific.
2. Golden Gardens, Shilshole Bay: 27 May 1995 to 28 May 1995
   A potlatch with First Nations was shared with hoʻolauleʻa (celebration); Hōkūle‘a supported the Polynesian Youth Games hosted by Seattle Parks and Recreation
3. Chinook Landing Marina, Puyallup Nation, Tacoma: 28 May 1995 to 1 June 1995
   As well as sharing educational outreach and cultural exchange, crew shared in a luau.
4. Suquamish Reservation: 1 June 1995 to 2 June 1995
5. Lummi Nation, Bellingham: 3 June 1995 to 4 June 1995
6. Squalicum Harbor, Bellingham: 5 June 1995
7. Swinomish Reservation, Skagit, Washington, United States: 6 June 1995
8. Vancouver Maritime Museum, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada: 7 June 1995 to 8 June 1995
   Exchange with the Assembly of First Nations
9. Makah Nation, Neah Bay, Washington, United States: 9 June 1995 to 11 June 1995

• Neah Bay – Portland, Oregon: 12 June 1995 to 15 June 1995; then Hōkūle‘a was towed up the Columbia River to:

1. Kalama, Washington where crew shared a dinner with Kalama ʻOhana: 16 June 1995
2. Fort Vancouver, Washington public dock where Hōkūle‘a was part of a festival and the rededication of Kanaka Village: 17 June 1995 to 20 June 1995

• Portland, Oregon – San Francisco, California: 21 June 1995 to 29 June 1995, to:

1. Hyde Street Pier arrival for 1 July 1995 welcoming ceremony and festival at Crissy Field, 2 July 1995 Long Boat Regatta on the bay, Hawaiian music concert and Polynesian festival at Lawrence Hall of Science.

• San Francisco – Santa Barbara: 3 July 1995 to 9 July 1995 for:

1. Santa Barbara Harbor Marina: 10 July 1995 to 11 July 1995, interchange with the Santa Barbara Outrigger Canoe Club, Cousteau Institute, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

• Santa Barbara – Long Beach: 11 July 1995 to 12 July 1995, for interchange with:

1. Gabrieleño/Tongva Tribal Council, Kalifornia Outrigger Association, Hawaiian Civic Clubs, the Rapa Nui Outrigger Club, and the City of Long Beach, on 12 July 1995;
2. A two-day symposium with scholars, scientists, and master artisans called Century of the Pakipika, 13 July 1995 to 14 July 1995;
3. A Hawaiian and Pacific Island Festival with teachers' workshops, the annual Long Beach Hoʻolauleʻa Canoe Regatta and a farewell dinner and ceremonies, 13 July 1995 to 19 July 1995

• Long Beach – San Diego: 20 July 1995, where at:

1. Embarcadero, San Diego, there was a welcoming ceremony, 22 July 1995,
2. A Hawaiian and Pacific Islands festival, and an exhibition, called:
3. Hale Naua, or "Turning Back the Sky," at the San Diego Museum of Man, 23 July 1995 to 25 July 1995

• San Diego – San Pedro: 26 July 1995 to 28 July 1995; from San Pedro, Hōkūle‘a returned to Hawaiʻi by ship, courtesy of Alexander & Baldwin Foundation and Matson.

Crew

Captains: Gordon Piʻianaiʻa, "Kimo" Lyman, Michael Tongg, Chad Baybayan; Crew: Gil Ane, Beth Atuatasi (née Saurer), Moana Doi, Laulima Lyman, Leon Sterling, Matthew Tongg

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

1999 - 2000 Closing the Triangle

Hōkūle‘a sailed from Hawaiʻi to Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and back, via the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia. While in the Marquesas, short trips were made between principal islands of the group (map). A brief stop was made at Pitcairn Island on the Mangareva – Rapa Nui leg. A technically challenging voyage due to Rapa Nui's isolation and location over 1,000 miles upwind; it is known as "Closing the Triangle" because it takes the canoe to the southeastern Pacific for the first time. Kama Hele escorted the voyage.

Legs

• Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island, United States – Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia: 15 June 1999 to 13 July 1999

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Bruce Blankenfeld; Apprentice Navigator: Piʻikea Miller; Watch Captains: Dennis Chun, Terry Hee, Leon Paoa Sterling; Crew: Russell Amimoto, Desmon Antone, Darcy Attisani, Kekama Helm, Kaʻau McKenney, Atwood Makanani, Hauʻoli Smith, Wallace Wong

• Nuku Hiva – Ua Pou – Ua Huka – Tahuata – Fatu Hiva – Hiva Oa – Mangareva, Gambier Islands: 2 August 1999 to 29 August 1999

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Chad Baybayan; Apprentice Navigators: Moana Doi, Catherine Fuller; Student Navigator: Aldon Kim; Watch Captains: Terry Hee, Mel Paoa, "Tava" Taupu; Protocol Officer: Kaniela Akaka; Crew: Tim Gilliom, Kealoha Hoe, Aeronwy Polo, Mona Shintani, Gary Suzuki, Nalani Wilson, Gary Yuen

• Mangareva, French Polynesia – Pitcairn, Pitcairn Islands – Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Territory of Chile: 21 September 1999 to 9 October 1999

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Navigators: Bruce Blankenfeld, Chad Baybayan; Medical Officer: Ben Tamura, MD; Photographer and Videographer: Sonny Ahuna; Crew: Shantell Ching, Terry Hee, Mel Paoa, "Tava" Taupu, Michael Tongg, Max Yarawamai, Aaron Young

• Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Territory of Chile – Tahiti, French Polynesia: 9 November 1999 to 3 December 1999

Crew

Navigator: Bruce Blankenfeld; Captain: "Wally" Froiseth; Crew: Naʻalehu Anthony, Bob Bee, Blane Chong, Dennis Chun, Terry Hee, Nalani Kaneakua, Kawika Crivello, Kealoha Hoe, "Kimo" Lyman, Kawai Warren, Kamaki Worthington

• Tahiti, French Polynesia – Kaunakakai, Molokaʻi, Hawaiʻi, United States: 5 February 2000 to 27 February 2000

Crew

Navigator: Nainoa Thompson; Navigator: Shantell Ching; Crew: "Snake" Ah Hee, Chad Baybayan, Pomaikalani "Pomai" Bertelmann, Bruce Blankenfeld, Sam Low, Joey Mallot, Kahualaulani Mick, Kaʻiulani Murphy, Kauʻi Pelekane, "Tava" Taupu, Michael Tongg, Dr. Patrice Ming-Lei Tim Sing, Kona Woolsey

2003 - 2004 Navigating Change project

In 2003, Hōkūle‘a sailed to Nihoa, the closest of the "Leeward," or Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (maps: small and large scale), to set the stage for the 2004 voyage to the furthest, most westerly of them, Kure Atoll. Hōkūle‘a's 2004 voyage, led by Nainoa Thompson, took the canoe through this area now known as the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument to promote stewardship and awareness of this pristine area. Hōkūle‘a participated in an interagency initiative with this voyage named after it, called "Navigating Change." Upon reaching the remote islands, the crew helped haul away hundreds of pounds of washed-up fishing nets which threatened Hawaiian monk seals and Hawaiian Green sea turtles and also helped with plant conservation. About 1,600 schoolchildren were linked to the vessel by daily satellite phone calls for which teachers prepared with curriculum guides, video and web resources. Navigating Change was more than the trip of a voyaging canoe; it was an initiative supported by US Fish & Wildlife Service, Polynesian Voyaging Society, Bishop Museum, NOAA, Hawai'i Department of Education, Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources, Hawaiʻi Maritime Center, University of Hawaiʻi, The Nature Conservancy, Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, Coastal Zone Management Hawaiʻi, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Harold K.L. Castle Foundation and the Pacific American Foundation. Susan Saul includes some of these partners; others are found in: and in the Polynesian Voyaging Society's "Navigating Change: The Northwestern Hawaiian Islands 2003-2004". Kama Hele escorted the voyage.

2003

• Oʻahu – Kauaʻi: 7 September 2003 to ?

Crew

Captain: Bruce Blankenfeld; Crew: Carey Amimoto, Anela Benson, Leimomi Dierks, Timmy Gilliom, Kiki Hugho, Nohea Kaiaokamalie, Jerry Muller, Dean Nikaido, Mel Paoa, Ronson Sahut, Jan TenBruggencate, Boyd Yap

• Kauaʻi – Nihoa: 9 September 2003 to ?

Crew

Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Crew: Russell Amimoto, Naʻalehu Anthony, Bruce Blankenfeld, Nohea Kaiaokamalie, Cindy Macfarlane, Mel Paoa, Jan TenBruggencate, Kana Uchino, Alex Wegman, Aulani Wilhelm

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

Legs

• Honolulu Harbor, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi – Hanalei Bay, Kauaʻi: 2 May 2004 to 3 May 2004

Crew

Navigator: Kaʻiulani Murphy; Captain: Russell Amimoto; Crew: Jan TenBruggencate,

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

• Hanalei Bay, Kauaʻi – Nihoa Island – Tern Island, French Frigate Shoals – Laysan Island – Lisianski Island – Pearl and Hermes Atoll – Green Island, Kure Atoll – Midway Atoll: 23 May 2004 to 9 June 2004

Crew

Navigator: Kaʻiulani Murphy; Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Sailing Master: Bruce Blankenfeld; Watch Captain: Russell Amimoto; Crew: Naʻalehu Anthony, Ann Bell; Leimomi Kekina Dierks, Randy Kosaki, Keoni Kuoha, Cherie Shehata, MD, "Tava" Taupu, Jan TenBruggencate, Kanako Uchino, Kaleo Wong

• Midway Atoll – Kauaʻi: 11 June 2004 to 22 June 2004

Crew

Navigator: Bruce Blankenfeld; Captain: Mel Paoa; Terry Hee, Kealoha Hoe, Nohea Kaiaokamalie, Keoni Kuoha, Kaʻiulani Murphy, "Tava" Taupu, Mike Taylor, Gary Yuen

• Kauaʻi – Honolulu, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi: 23 June 2004 to 24 June 2004

Crew

Captain: Russell Amimoto; Gerald Aikau

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

2007 One Ocean, One People

The "One Ocean, One People" theme united two voyages in celebration of Pacific voyaging, Pacific Islands, and cultural ties, in passages to Micronesia and Japan. These voyages were named "Kū Holo Mau" and "Kū Holo Lā Komohana". Kama Hele escorted the voyage.

Kū Holo Mau

Accompanied by the canoe Alingano Maisu and specialized escort boat Kama Hele, (photo below, in gallery) Hōkūle‘a sailed from Hawaiʻi to the Federated States of Micronesia, 23 January to 7 April 2007. This voyage is known as "Kū Holo Mau," or "Sail On, Sail Always, Sail Forever." While on the island of Satawal, the crew of the Hōkūle‘a presented the Alingano Maisu to Mau Piailug as a gift for his role in helping to revive traditional wayfinding navigation in Hawaiʻi. While at Satawal, some Hōkūle‘a navigators who had proven their mastery of non-instrument sailing and navigation over many ocean passages were inducted into Pwo, pronounced "poh." This was the first Pwo ceremony on Satawal in five decades, and the first time Polynesians were inducted.

Legs

• Kawaihae, Hawaiʻi Island, United States – Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands: 23 January 2007 to 18 February 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Bruce Blankenfeld; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy; Medical Officer: Dr. Ben Tamura; Crew: Russell Amimoto, Bob Bee, Terry Hee, Nohea Kaiʻokamalie, Kaleo Wong, Palani Wright

• Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands – Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia: 21 February 2007 to 28 February 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Bruce Blankenfeld; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy; Medical Officer: Dr. Gerald Akaka; Crew: Russell Amimoto, Terry Hee, Nohea Kaiʻokamalie, Gary Kubota, Kaleo Wong, Palani Wright

• Pohnpei – Chuuk: 6 March 2007 to 9 March 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy; Medical Officer: Dr. Marjorie Mau; Crew: Naʻalehu Anthony, Pomai Bertelmann, Gary Kubota, Keoni Kuoha, Nick Marr, "Billy" Richards, Ana Yarawamai, Max Yarawamai, Pauline Yourupi

• Chuuk – Satawal, Yap State: 11 March 2007 to 21 March 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy; Medical Officer: Dr. Marjorie Mau; Crew: Naʻalehu Anthony, Chad Baybayan, "Shorty" Bertelmann, Pomai Bertelmann, Bruce Blankenfeld, "Snake" Ah Hee, John Kruse, Gary Kubota, Keoni Kuoha, Nick Marr, "Billy" Richards, Ana Yarawamai, Max Yarawamai, Pauline Yourupi

• Satawal – Woleai Atoll: 19 March 2007 to 21 March 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy; Medical Officer: Dr. Marjorie Mau; Crew: Naʻalehu Anthony, Chad Baybayan, "Shorty" Bertelmann, Pomai Bertelmann, Bruce Blankenfeld, "Snake" Ah Hee, John Kruse, Gary Kubota, Keoni Kuoha, Nick Marr, "Billy" Richards, Ana Yarawamai, Max Yarawamai, Pauline Yourupi

• Woleai – Ulithi Atoll: 21 March 2007 to 23 March 2007

Crew

Navigator: Kaʻiulani Murphy; Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani; Medical Officer: Dr. Marjorie Mau; Crew: Naʻalehu Anthony, Chad Baybayan, Pomai Bertelmann, Gary Kubota, Keoni Kuoha, Nick Marr, "Billy" Richards, Ana Yarawamai, Max Yarawamai, Pauline Yourupi

• Ulithi – Yap Island: 21 March 2007 to 23 March 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy; Medical Officer: Dr. Marjorie Mau; Crew: Naʻalehu Anthony, Chad Baybayan, Pomai Bertelmann, Bruce Blankenfeld, Dr. Thane Hancock, "Snake" Ah Hee, John Kruse, Gary Kubota, Keoni Kuoha, Nick Marr, "Billy" Richards, Ana Yarawamai, Max Yarawamai, Pauline Yourupi

• Colonia, Yap Island, Federated States of Micronesia – Palau (map): 29 March 2007 to 31 March 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy; Medical Officer: Dr. Vernon Andsell; Crew: Aaron Akina, Naʻalehu Anthony, Pomai Bertelmann, Dennis Eric Co, Emily Fielding, Keoni Kuoha, Waimea McKeague, Tommy Remengesau (President of Palau), Pauline Sato, Patti Ann Solomon, Jennifer Yano

• Palau – Colonia, Yap Island, Federated States of Micronesia: 5 April 2007 to 7 April 2007

Crew

Navigator: Kaʻiulani Murphy; Captain: Naʻalehu Anthony; Watch Captains: Tim Gilliom, Attwood Makanani, Nainoa Thompson; Medical Officer: Dr. Vernon Andsell; Crew: Aaron Akina, Pomai Bertelmann, Dennis Eric Co, Emily Fielding, Keoni Kuoha, Waimea McKeague, Pauline Sato, Patti Ann Solomon

Kū Holo Lā Komohana

From Yap, the Hōkūle‘a sailed to Yokohama, Japan, 11 April 2007 to 8 June 2007. Upon sighting Kyūshū, navigation of coastal and inland seas utilized landmarks and aids to navigation. From departure to landfall at Okinawa, Japan, Hōkūle‘a was guided by Nainoa Thompson. Chad Baybayan then guided the vessel to further stops at Amami, Uto, Nomozaki, Nagasaki, Fukuoka, Shinmoji marina in Moji-ku, Iwaishima, and Suō-Ōshima (Ōshima). Nainoa Thompson resumed as captain for stops at Miyajima and Hiroshima (image). Bruce Blankenfeld then took over for stops at Uwajima, Muroto, Miura, and Kamakura before concluding the voyage in Yokohama. This voyage is known as "Kū Holo Lā Komohana," or Sail On to the Western Sun. While Hōkūle‘a was shipped back to Honolulu, escort vessel Kama Hele sailed back to Oʻahu under German Captain Mike Weindl with six Japanese crewmembers.

Legs

• Yap, Federated States of Micronesia – Okinawa, Japan 11 April 2007 to 23 April 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Crew: Takuji Araki (Japan), Pomai Bertelmann, Timi Gilliom, Kaina Holomalia, Attwood Makanani, Kaʻiulani Murphy, Maile Neff, Chadd Kaʻonohi Paishon, Dr. Pete Roney, Kanaka Uchino (Japan)

• Okinawa – Ōshima 28 April 2007 to 19 May 2007

Crew

Captain: Chad Baybayan; Crew: Imaikalani P. Aiu, Takuji Araki, Kalepa "Kala" Baybayan, Stephanie M. Beeby, Anela K. Benson, Dennis J. Chun, Monte Costa, Derek Ferrar, Timmy Gilliom, Heidi K. Guth, Kaimi C. Hermosura, Kiyoko Ikeda, William Keala Kai, Attwood Makanani, Chadd Kaʻonohi Paishon, Makaʻala Rawlins, Dr. Cherie L. Shehata, Van K. Warren

• Ōshima – Uwajima 26 May 2007 to 27 May 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Nainoa Thompson; Watch Captain: Kaʻiulani Murphy; Crew: Imaikalani P. Aiu, Takuji Araki, Nanea Baird, Stephanie M. Beeby, Anela K. Benson, Pomai Bertelmann, Dennis J. Chun, Monte Costa, Heidi K. Guth, Kaimi C. Hermosura, Kiyoko Ikeda, William Keala Kai, Attwood Makanani, Chadd Kaʻonohi Paishon, Dr. Cherie L. Shehata, Sky Takemoto, Kanako Uchino, Van K. Warren

• Uwajima – Yokohama 3 June 2007 to 9 June 2007

Crew

Navigator and Captain: Bruce Blankenfeld; Senior Officers: Norman Piʻianaiʻa, "Tava" Taupu; Watch Captain: Naʻalehu Anthony; Crew: Takuji Araki, Chris Baird, Dennis Kawaharada, Attwood Makanani, Dr. Cherie L. Shehata, Patti-Ann Solomon; Watch Captain: Kaʻiulani Murphy; Crew: Pomai Bertelmann, Dean Nikaido, Chadd Kaʻonohi Paishon, Leighton Tseu (representing the Royal Order of Kamehameha), Kanako Uchino, Kiyotsugu Yoshida (Sunset Films)

2014 Malama Honua

Legs

• Malama Hawaiʻi: Statewide Sail
• Hawaiʻi – Tahiti
• Tahiti – Samoa
• Apia & Phoenix Islands
• Tutuila to Aotearoa
• Aotearoa I

Images

• 

  Galley and Diamond Bakery's cookie bucket.

• 

  Motto, Kapu nā Keiki, engraved on a crossbeam of Hōkūle‘a

• 

  Steering sweep grip of portside

• 

  Inside a compartment

• 

  Radio system

• 

  Hōkūle‘a arrives in Yokohama Bay, 2007; Yokohama Bay Bridge in background

• 

  Kama Hele at Port of Yokohama, on the day Hōkūle‘a finished the 2007 Micronesia-Japan voyage

• 

  Hōkūle‘a at Kailua Beach, 1 May 2005

• 

  Hokule'a 2009

See also

• Hawaiʻiloa
• History of the Pacific Islands
• Pacific Islands
• Experimental archaeology
• Hokuleʻa class starship, about a class of starships in the Star Trek series named after the Hokuleʻa.

References and notes

References

• (Archived by WebCite at www.webcitation.org/5afUfyW1K)

Notes

a. ^{^}

External links

• Brief introduction to navigating by the stars
• Hōkūle‘a - Star of Gladness on YouTube.com, performed by the Hawaiian artist Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
• Honolulu Advertiser Hōkūle‘a Voyage Special
• Sam Low's Voyages of Awakening, 25 years of Hōkūle‘a'
• Polynesian Voyaging Society website
• Hawaiian Voyaging Traditions on Kapi‘olani Community College website
• Hawaiian Voyaging Traditions section on the building, launching of Hōkūle‘a
• Public Broadcasting Service website for Wayfinders: A Pacific Odyssey, a film about the ancient Polynesian sea voyaging tradition
• Uncle Charlie's personal website on Hōkūle‘a, by Charles Kauluwehi Maxwell Sr.
• Hōkūle‘a Worldwide Voyage site