After sailing more than 40,000 miles to 150 ports in 19 countries, Hawaii’s floating ambassador to the world is back where it started three years ago.
The sun rises over Hawaii Kai as the Hokulea begins its journey from Maunalua Bay to Magic Island. Photograph Anthony Quintano/Civil Beat
Hokulea offshore Waikiki on her way to the Hokulea Homecoming Ceremony and Celebration. Cory Lum/Civil Beat
Hokulea passes Diamond Head as its three-year voyage around the world nears its conclusion Saturday morning. / Anthony Quintano
The HokulHokulea sails offshore Waikiki on her way to Magic Island after a 3 year around the world voyage.ea crew opens her sails to make the final push toward Magic Island. Cory Lum/Civil Beat
Crewmembers are all smiles on their approach to Honolulu. Over the course of the journey, more than 250 volunteer sailors for the Polynesian Voyaging Society took turns aboard the vessel. / Anthony Quintano
Hokulea skipper Billy Richards, in the white hat, gets a hug as the replica of a Polynesian wa’a — a double-hulled canoe, approaches shore. / Cory Lum
Thousands of people mass on the shore at Magic Island to greet the Hokulea. / Cory Lum
Some people take to the trees to get a better view of Hokulea’s approach. / Cory Lum
Cultural pride is on display during the emotional homecoming. Organizers of the voyage hoped its success would inspire other indigenous people to rediscover and revive traditions./ Cory Lum
Cellphones rise to record the arrival of Hokulea. The ceremony that followed included speeches by Gov. David Ige, Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Polynesian Voyaging Society president Nainoa Thompson. / Cory Lum
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