KAILUA-KONA — Hokulea’s visit to Hawaii Island is part of the “Mahalo, Hawaii” sail, which commenced last August to recognize and celebrate the contributions of families, employers and communities that made the three-year Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage possible.
It’s the first time Hokulea has come to Hawaii Island since 2014 when she departed Hilo Bay with sister canoe, Hikianalia, for the historic voyage.
After a visit to Kailua-Kona, Hokulea will head to Hilo for the month of April. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 21, the public is invited to meet crew members and hear stories, as well as tour the canoe and check out an educational expo at Wailoa Harbor. Admission is free.
Hokulea then will spend time in Kawaihae through the first week in May. A free community day, like those held in Kailua-Kona and Hilo, is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 5 at Kawaihae Harbor. Thereafter, she will depart for Oahu.