The Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society (HOCVS) has revitalized traditional Polynesian navigation, connecting the past with the present. For centuries, vast stretches of the Pacific Ocean were explored and settled by intrepid voyagers using only the stars, currents, and the wisdom passed down through generations. The HOCVS, through their iconic voyaging canoes like Hōkūleʻa, continues this legacy, inspiring a global community with their dedication to cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and educational outreach.
The History and Mission of the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society
The HOCVS was founded in 1973 to address a fundamental question: did Polynesians intentionally settle the vast Pacific, or were they simply blown off course? The society sought to prove the former by recreating ancient voyaging techniques, navigating without modern instruments. Their mission expanded beyond this initial goal to encompass a broader vision: to perpetuate the art and science of traditional Polynesian voyaging, educate future generations about their maritime heritage, and inspire exploration and understanding of the interconnectedness of our planet.
Hokulea: A Symbol of Cultural Revival
The construction and voyages of Hōkūleʻa, the society’s flagship canoe, have become powerful symbols of cultural revival. Hōkūleʻa’s maiden voyage to Tahiti in 1976, without the use of modern navigational tools, demonstrated the feasibility of ancient wayfinding methods and ignited a renewed sense of pride in Polynesian heritage. This voyage sparked a resurgence of interest in traditional navigation, canoe building, and other cultural practices that had been dormant for centuries.
How Hokulea Connects Generations
Hōkūleʻa’s voyages are not just about recreating the past; they are about building a future. Each journey involves training new generations of navigators, ensuring that the knowledge and skills of wayfinding continue to be passed down. The society emphasizes the importance of understanding the natural world, fostering a deep respect for the ocean and its delicate ecosystems.
Crew Navigating by the Stars
Worldwide Voyage: A Global Message of Malama Honua
The Mālama Honua Worldwide Voyage, completed in 2017, took Hōkūleʻa and her sister canoe, Hikianalia, on a three-year journey around the globe. This epic voyage, covering over 40,000 nautical miles and visiting more than 150 ports, shared a message of Mālama Honua – caring for our Island Earth. The voyage showcased the importance of cultural preservation, sustainable practices, and global collaboration in addressing the challenges facing our planet.
Sharing Knowledge and Inspiring Change
Throughout the Worldwide Voyage, the crew engaged with communities around the world, sharing their knowledge of traditional voyaging and promoting a message of environmental stewardship. They inspired individuals and organizations to take action to protect our oceans and create a more sustainable future.
“The Worldwide Voyage was not just about sailing around the world,” says Nainoa Thompson, master navigator and president of the HOCVS. “It was about connecting with people from all walks of life and inspiring them to become stewards of our planet.”
Conclusion: The Continuing Legacy of the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society
The Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society, through its dedication to traditional navigation, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship, continues to inspire hope and action for a more sustainable future. The voyages of Hōkūleʻa and the message of Mālama Honua resonate with people around the world, reminding us of our interconnectedness and the importance of working together to protect our shared planet.
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