Vaka

Vaka is the name given to the traditional craft used by the ancient Polynesians to cross the vast expanses of the Pacific Ocean. It is the type of craft I will be aboard when I join an expedition in June to sail from Southern Polynesia all the way to Hawaii. Primitive yes, but quite capable. What makes the journey more interesting is that there will be no compass or GPS on board. Just like the boat, the navigation will be traditional. Granted we do not know all the secrets the ancient Polynesians used to sail the ocean, but we have a few people who know a lot still, and have helped pass on their knowledge. One of these will be a team member.
I have a lot to learn. That is what is exciting about this project though. It is about preparation, dedication, and a mission. The mission is not just to arrive safe. It is to bring awareness to the plight that whales are facing in our seas and oceans. So, along the way we are searching for them, trying to make contact in an ancient way. Below is a picture of a single hulled Vaka. We will building a double hulled Vaka, roughly 60 ft long. A truly ocean going vessel.