Crew Blog | Ira Zunin: Mahalo to Patagonia

Written by Ira Zunin

Patagonia gets it. Beginning in 1999, this manufacturer of outdoor clothing and equipment has been a dedicated partner of the Polynesian Voyaging Society and Hōkūleʻa’s many voyages to distant lands. Because Patagonia understands the importance of preserving, protecting and perpetuating indigenous peoples, its leadership readily appreciates Hōkūleʻa’s role in helping to catalyze the Hawaiian renaissance, which has also stimulated a resurgence of traditional Polynesian voyaging cultures throughout the Pacific. The mission and core values of both organizations are also closely aligned with respect to the importance of caring for our fragile planet and making it safe for future generations.

Throughout PVS’s Mālama Honua Worldwide Voyage, many crewmembers who have sailed to date on Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia have gratefully worn Patagonia’s swimwear, long underwear, fleeces, and waterproof gear.

The gear not only keeps us warm and dry but also cool and comfortable and protects us from the sun. Since the summer of 2015, Hōkūleʻa crewmembers have also been kept healthy by Patagonia’s fruit bars, smoked salmon and Tsampa soup, which Patagonia reports was inspired by an indigenous Tibetan recipe.

Too often these days, companies focus on profits derived from exploiting the peoples of the earth and our environment, and utilize sponsorships to “green-wash” their more dubious occupations. Not Patagonia. In fact, the company is named after a vast and awe-inspiring mountain range between Argentina and Chile that Patagonia has invested heavily in order to help keep it pristine.

The crews and staff of the Polynesian Voyaging Society are grateful for Patagonia’s collaboration with us and deeply honored to be aligned with them in the mission of Mālama Honua.

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