Blog by Brad Wong

Early in the morning, around 8am, we left Coconut Grove, Miami on our way to Key West. A small group of local canoe paddlers, the hui at Shake-A-Leg Marina, and Nā Kelamoku sent us off as Julie’s Cat pulled us off the dock. After our oli mahalo, an ānuenue (rainbow) and an ʻiwa (Frigate bird) appeared out of nowhere behind us, an amazing blessing and one of those special moments that Hōkūleʻa always seems to bring.

The day was spent getting everyone’s sea legs under them and adjusting the standing rigging. The crew has gotten along extremely well, laughing, playing music, and cooking together.

We arrived offshore of Islamorada at around 530pm and are now currently anchored outside Islamorada along the Florida Keys and will stay here for the night. The stars are brilliantly dotting the sky which prompted ʻAnakala Bruce to give a quick star lesson to those interested. We await the morning to make our way to Key West and to meet up with the Gershon who we haven’t seen since Hōkūleʻa’s first pass through Florida. More excitement to come. Pō mālie.

Help fund the Voyage as we sail the East Coast

Hōkūle‘a’s visit to the eastern United States is a historic milestone in her 40 years of voyaging.

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