For centuries, Polynesians were the best long-distance ocean navigators on earth. Some 30 years ago, the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) revived this long-lost tradition by building and sailing the double-hulled voyaging canoe Hokule'a around the Pacific, sparking a tremendous growth in pride and appreciation for the wisdom and environmental stewardship of the Hawaiian culture.
To give more young people the opportunity to experience Polynesian voyaging, PVS is collaborating with Honolulu Community College's Marine Education and Training Center to build a new, double-hulled Polynesian sailing canoe which is smaller and easier to maneuver than the Hokule'a. Nearly ready for sea trials, the canoe will be berthed in Windward Oahu, and a Windward organization will be selected to operate the canoe safely, maintain it, and use it to promote leadership among young people. Construction of this early prototype, as well as the reusable mold for the hulls, was made possible in part through a $20,000 grant from the James & Abigail Campbell Family Foundation and a $70,000 grant from the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation.
The end result is very promising. Each successive canoe should cost under $30,000 to build, including hulls, iakos, deck, masts, rigging, sails, and safety gear. This is a cost that many large canoe clubs and community organizations could raise through fundraisers and small grants. Perhaps Hawaii may one day realize a vision wherein every large ahupua'a has its own Polynesian double-hulled sailing canoe, cared for by a paddling club, a high school, a youth organization, or a civic club. Imagine the impact on community pride and on the opportunities for youth to reconnect with the ocean and with the Polynesian voyaging tradition. For more information, contact the Polynesian Voyaging Society at www.pvs-hawaii.com.