Original Crew Member to Share Stories from Landmark 1976 Voyage
Entertainment
Dr. Ben Young, a crew member on Hōkūleʻa’s historic 1976 return voyage from Tahiti to Hawaii, will recount his experiences during two presentations on Saturday at the Celebration of the Arts at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.
On May 1, 1976, the double-hulled ocean voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa embarked on a 2,700-mile journey from Maui’s Honolua Bay to Tahiti. Guided solely by natural signs, the crew utilized traditional Polynesian wayfinding techniques, showcasing ancient navigational knowledge that allowed Polynesians to sail vast ocean distances.
This pivotal voyage played a crucial role in the Hawaiian Renaissance, inspiring cultural revival and renewed pride in the Hawaiian language and traditions.
Dr. Young noted, “We knew we were on the verge of something exciting… Hōkūleʻa was part of it and captured the hearts of many in Hawaii and beyond.” His talk, titled “Hōkūleʻa: The Canoe That Reconnected a Culture,” is set for 12:30 p.m. and celebrates Hōkūleʻa’s 50th anniversary.
Reflecting on the voyage, Young expressed surprise at the lasting impact, stating, “50 years later, what has transpired is amazing.”
The Polynesian Voyaging Society was founded in 1973 by Hawaiian artist Herb Kawainui Kāne, who envisioned building a double-hulled sailing canoe akin to those that Polynesians once navigated. Young, the first Native Hawaiian psychiatrist and a strong advocate for cultural revitalization, joined the crew for the return to Hawaii.
Young recounted the challenges faced, including extreme weather and personal sacrifices among crew members. “There were waves 20 feet high… and the mental anguish was significant,” he shared.
The historic journey was made possible through the guidance of Mau Piailug, a Micronesian navigator who taught the crew traditional navigation methods.
This voyage not only marked a remarkable accomplishment but also sparked a cultural awakening. Young emphasized, “We had an idea. It was significant… but none of us realized its true importance.”
Young’s second presentation, “Hōkūleʻa at 50: Stories from the Original Crew,” at 2 p.m. will feature other original crew members and rare film footage.
The event will also honor legendary Lahaina waterman Abraham “Snake” Ah Hee and crew members from various islands.
The 2026 Celebration of the Arts will take place on Friday and Saturday at the Ritz-Carlton Maui, with a complete schedule available at kapaluacelebrationofthearts.com.
