Three years. More than 46,000 miles. Nineteen countries.

One last mile.

Thousands of spectators gathered at Magic Island on Saturday to cheer the Hokule‘a and its safe return to Hawaiian waters, after the traditional sailing canoe wrapped up the longest and most ambitious voyage of its 42-year history.

A flotilla of seven other traditional Polynesian replica vessels, including the escort canoe Hikianalia, joined the Hokule‘a in a regal procession that celebrated how far Pacific voyaging has come in the past four decades. Dozens of smaller paddling canoes greeted their entry into the Ala Wai Harbor.

The Hokule‘a returns to her home islands having sailed around the world to rally support for the protection of the environment and the preservation of indigenous cultures. Along the way, her crews collected stories of local communities working to protect their homelands, and voyage organizers likened the task to sewing a “lei of hope” around the planet.

Voyage organizers now look to capitalize on the enthusiasm and momentum. Starting in August they aim to sail the Hokule‘a into 30 ports across the state and hear how Hawaii communities want to advance the cause of Malama Honua — caring for the earth.

“Now it’s about the community taking Malama Honua off Hokule‘a,” Polynesian Voyaging Society President Nainoa Thompson said recently.

Click here for more coverage on Hokuleʻa’s journey.