The Mālama Honua Worldwide Voyage sponsored by Hawaiian Airlines continues to prepare for departure from Hilo while waiting for unfavorable weather conditions to pass.
Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia will depart for Tahiti later this week, based on the wind, sea and weather systems moving through the Hawaiian islands. Nainoa Thompson, president of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, will continue to consult with his fellow pwo (master) navigators and the National Weather Service to determine the ideal window for departure from Hilo.
Weather permitting, the crews will depart from Hilo on Friday, May 30, 2014 to continue the first leg of the Worldwide Voyage to Tahiti.
PVS will continue to prioritize the safety of its voyaging canoes and crew members by waiting for the appropriate weather conditions for departure. There are no public ceremonies or media events planned by PVS for the day of departure.