History and Homecoming of the Hokulea

The Hokulea is one of Hawaii’s most prized natural treasure. It is an integral part of the state’s history, also more popularly known as Hawaii’s voyaging canoe.

The birth of the Hokulea could be traced to March 8, 1975 when it was first launched in Oahu. Back then, it served as the Polynesians way of going back to one of the things they did best – sailing. It marked the beginning of the now historical voyage, which they say is also Hawaii’s very own voyage to sail and see the world.

It was first intended to sail around the Hawaiian Islands and be used for exploration. However, the Polynesians found joy and fulfillment in voyaging the Hokulea, that they thought it would be great for a worldwide voyage to also introduce the Hawaiian culture and Aloha way of life to the world.

(Photo from Maui Now)

Since its construction and launch, the Hokulea has been successful in awakening the pride and passion of Polynesians in the waters. The majestic canoe also lit the fire to start the Hawaiian Cultural Renaissance. Much has happened since then, including a few mishaps, but fast forward to the summer of 2014, the Hokulea embarked on another long voyage--after nearly 38 years after her launch.

After three long years and almost 40,000 miles around the world, the Hokulea has finally come home. Its homecoming celebration has started on Oahu’s Magic Island, where it was welcomed with thousands of people waiting, along with a grand canoe procession we haven’t seen in so many years. It is also set to sail to the other Hawaiian islands.

Just this August, Maui also had the privilege to be graced by the Hokulea. It made a stop on the Honolua Bay where it was visited by Kamehameha Schools Maui’s students, as well as other spectators. Public canoe tours, as well as informational talks were part of the celebratory program for the Hokulea.

According to Maui Now, some of the upcoming stops that the canoe will be making during the six-month voyage throughout the Hawaiian Islands include the following:

*Ports and dates are subject to change

• August and September: Maui (Honolua), Oʻahu (Haleʻiwa), Kauaʻi
• October: Moku O Keawe, Maui (Hāna)
• November: Maui Nui – Maui (Māʻalaea/Wailea), Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi

Its construction and launch has been nothing short of historic and momentous. It was a feat that revived the art of canoe building, and also brought more color to the already rich Hawaiian culture.

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