Hōkūleʻa Embarks on Statewide Journey to Connect with Communities and Students Across Hawaii

The historic traditional Polynesian double-hulled voyaging canoe, Hōkūleʻa, has set sail on a remarkable journey that aims to reach 34 communities spanning 31 ports across Hawaii.
Honoring a Community
Last year, Hōkūleʻa was called upon to return from its Moananuiākea Voyage to bring hope to Lahaina on the anniversary of destructive wildfires. The crew wasted no time in accepting the invitation and recently paid tribute to the community in a touching gesture. As part of the event, Maui kūpuna and Snake Ah Hee, a crew member from the vessel's maiden voyage in 1976, were welcomed aboard.
Pae ‘Āina Statewide Sail
Embarking on a 7-month journey covering 3,000 miles, Hōkūleʻa's statewide sail aims at training and building connections with communities, particularly students and their families. The voyage is crucial in engaging with children, listening to their perspectives, and determining how the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) can best support them.
Empowering Communities
Nainoa Thompson, CEO of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, emphasized the significance of this voyage in shaping the future mission of connecting with communities and serving children effectively as they prepare for their 2025 departure from Hawaii. The society is collaborating with the Hawaiʻi Department of Education and various partners to develop an outreach strategy, offer canoe tours, facilitate teacher training, and create curriculum focused on culture and sustainability.
Schedule for the Sail
Below is the proposed schedule for the statewide sail; however, all ports and dates are tentative and subject to change based on weather conditions. For the most recent updates, visit the Polynesian Voyaging Society website. This journey signifies a unique opportunity for Hōkūleʻa to engage with diverse communities and inspire students through cultural and educational initiatives.