Upper School Trip to Hokule'a

Hōkūleʻa arrived at Nāwiliwili Small Boat Harbor on August 23rd at 7:30 am. This week, Island School haumāna including the HS and MS ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi & 8th & 10th grade Hawaiian History Classes and the Elementary had the unique opportunity to step aboard the Hōkūleʻa. For some haumāna this was the first time stepping foot on Hōkūleʻa, renowned for its revival of deep-sea voyaging and its incredible journeys across the Pacific. This event was not just a day out of the classroom, but a chance for our voyagers to experience hands-on lessons in maritime history, Polynesian navigation, and cultural heritage. 

Guided by passionate crew members and knowledgeable educators, students were split into various groups. In one group they learned about “Life on the Canoe”.  Another group explored the star compass and how celestial navigation and traditional sailing methods are used to traverse the vast Pacific Ocean. Haumāna also participated in line handling activities which included learning different knots used on the canoe, and how to coil and throw anchor lines which is crucial for docking. 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Hōkūleʻa crew for their generosity and for sharing their expertise and stories with us. A big shout-out to our teachers and chaperones who helped make this enriching experience possible on such short notice, especially Kumu Kanānāikahaku, Mr. Pat Gegen and Kumu Kalanakila.