The historic voyaging canoe Hokulea is making her way down the coast of California with scheduled stops in Ventura, Marina Del Rey, Newport, Dana Point, and San Diego before making her way home to join her Maui ohana in late December as residents there continue to salvage their lives and heal from the wildfires.
In the decision to return to Hawaii, Polynesian Voyaging Canoe CEO Nainoa Thompson also cited the earth’s unprecedented weather patterns and rising land and ocean temperatures caused by El Niño. These combined factors have changed the earth’s once predictable pattern and created concerns for real risks on the ocean.
Upcoming stops will provide opportunities for the public to join in the celebration of Hokulea’s inspiring Moananuiakea Voyage. A tentative schedule of events is available at the PVS website and by following the crew’s journey on social media, @hokuleacrew.
The schedule is as follows, with dates subject to change, weather permitting:
- Oct. 17-24: Ventura, Ventura Yacht Club
- Oct. 24-30: Marina Del Rey, Chace Park
- Oct. 30-Nov. 4: Newport, Newport Scout Sea Base
- Nov. 4-8: Dana Point, Ocean Institute
- Nov. 8-14: San Diego, Maritime Museum of San Diego
The last time Hokulea sailed along the California coast was 28 years ago in 1995.
According to Thompson, the Moananuiakea Voyage will resume following the visit to Maui (the length of time is yet to be determined) and be completed within the original timeframe, keeping commitments made to communities around the Pacific.
Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.