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The Hokule‘a will return to Oahu earlier than scheduled from its “Mahalo, Hawai‘i Sail” around Hawaii island due to damage to the canoe’s hulls that need to be repaired immediately, according to the Polynesian Voyaging Society.
The Hokule‘a was en route from
Milolii to Kawaihae Harbor on Monday when it ran aground, causing damage to the bottom of the hulls.
No crew members were injured.
It will return to Oahu today to begin dry-dock repairs immediately at Sand Island.
“Hokuleʻa is a living, cultural treasure and it is our responsibility to make sure we malama her with the care she needs at this time,” said Nainoa Thompson, president of Polynesian Voyaging Society, in a news release. “We will be leaving Kawaihae tomorrow with a promise that we’re going to heal Hokuleʻa and she will be returning as soon as possible to the children and communities of Moku O Keawe (Hawaiʻi island).”
Due to the early departure from Kawaihae Harbor, all school and public canoe tours will be postponed until further notice. The canoe was originally scheduled to be docked at Kawaihae Harbor until May 10 after a nearly monthlong stay on the east side of Hawaii island.
Crew panel presentations, however, will take place as scheduled, starting Thursday evening in Waimea, continuing Saturday at the Fairmont Orchid, Sunday at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and May 24 in Kamuela. Visit hokulea.com/events for a full
schedule.