Learn about — and experience firsthand — traditional Hawaiian navigation on a voyaging canoe on Saturday in Hilo Bay.
The annual collaborative effort of ‘Aha Punana Leo’s Honuakai (Wayfinding Division) and the American Association of University Women — Hilo Branch raises funds for the two nonprofit organizations.
AAUW and Honuakai plan a fun-filled day that will include a 45-minute ride on a double-hulled voyaging canoe in Hilo Bay starting at Hilo Bayfront near the canoe sheds, with opportunities to learn knot-tying, compete in rope-throwing contests, and view a video about Hawaiian navigation.
Participants must weigh more than 50 pounds, in order to use the personal flotation safety devices aboard the canoe.
Only eight voyaging cruises will be offered and seating is limited, said coordinators.
The cruises will be leaving on the-hour beginning at 8 a.m., with the final cruise starting at 4 p.m. The cost is $50 ($45 is tax-deductible) per person. To make reservations, call Susan James at 982-9815, or e-mail her at susan@jaycurlee.com.
Please indicate the time you would like your cruise. She will explain where to send your payment (by check only, as credit cards will not be accepted). Tickets will be held at the event.
Without reservations, seats will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Late arrivals may be able to get a seat on subsequent sailings, but only if space is available. Dress appropriately, with the expectation of getting wet.
Funds raised from this event will be equally split to support educational programs at both AAUW and the Honuakai program.
Aha Punana Leo, or the Hawaiian language nest, focuses on programs to promote and ensure the continuity of the Hawaiian language, with programs for preschool children to adults.
AAUW-Hilo uses its funds to promote education for women through the lifespan. Among its programs are scholarships for women attending the University of Hawaii at Hilo. It also contributes to the national AAUW educational foundation which funds fellowships to assist women in their graduate studies.
Rain will not cancel the event. This is Hilo, after all, say coordinators.
Sailings would only be cancelled in the event of lightning storms, or any severe conditions requiring Civil Defense warnings. Check at the Bayfront to confirm cancellation.
