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