Hikianalia Hawai Tour

Hikianalia is the Hawaiian name for the star also known as Spica, which rises together with Hōkūle’a (Arcturus) in Hawaii. They are sister stars because they break the horizon together at the latitude of the Hawaiian islands.  While Hikianalia has her own sail plan for part of the Worldwide Voyage, she and Hōkūleʻa will begin and conclude the voyage side-by-side.  

Hikianalia combines the latest ecological technology with the heritage of the voyaging tradition. Each of our hulls contains an electric motor powered by onboard photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight to electric propulsive energy. With a zero carbon footprint, her design supports the “Mālama Honua” intent of the Worldwide Voyage.

Hikianalia was designed specifically for the Worldwide Voyage, following a template created by Salthouse Boatbuilders and used by the Okeanos Foundation for the Sea, which commissioned the seven waka moana of the Pacific Voyagers in Aotearoa (New Zealand). A sail path between Aotearoa and Hawaiʻi was rekindled in 1985, when Hōkūle’a sailed there and established an ongoing relationship with Maori communities.

We received a complete run down of all the features and amenities on board this ship. I found it quite impressive how they’ve kitted out this small space for fairly comfortable living, complete with kitchen, shower & toilet.

Hikianalia features at a Glance:

• Built in Auckland, Aotearoa by Salthouse Boatbuilders (builders of the Pacific Voyagers waka)
• Launched for sea trials on September 15, 2012
• Set sail from Aotearoa to Tahiti on October 9, 2012.  Arrived on October 25.
• Length: 72 feet
• Width: 23 feet
• Green Footprint: Hikianalia is powered by photovoltaic-driven electric motors
• Hikianalia is the Hawaiian name for the star Spica.