Reasons why I find the Lapita Voyage with two lapstrake canoes from James Wharram Designs is so intriguing:
1. Historical significance: The Lapita Voyage was inspired by intense interest in the 4,000-year-old of the prehistoric South Pacific trade route, along which thrived the Lapita culture. James Wharram and his partner Hanneke Boon and sought to prove that ancient voyagers could have used ancient means of navigation and boat-building to explore the Pacific.
Their interest was further piqued when in 1995, after facing disappointment at the lack of informaton-sharing at the Gathering of the Canoes on Ra’iatea, they sailed on and visited the Auckland Imperial Museum and in the canoe room “found gold!” There they noticed one canoe in particular: a Tikopian vaka tapu sacred canoe which had been presented to the museum in 1916. What was so riveting about it? Its v-shaped ocean-going hull. Despite its having been on display in the museum for almost 80 years at that point, apparently no one had even noticed that this canoed proved that the Polynesian people possessed canoes with hull shapes that could indeed sail to windward.
In the documentary, Wharram opines that human migration was accomplished as much by water as by walking. He would know, as he spent his life studying the original ethnic sailing craft that made such ocean-going voyages. (James died in late 2021 at 93 years of age – his last sail aboard Spirit of Gaiai in the islands of the Peloponnese Peninsula is captured in this video.)
As a young man, Wharram was inspired by Thor Heyerdahl and his 1947 Kon-Tiki voyage which sought to answer the question of how man had arrived at the remote central Pacific islands so long ago. See also: The Tangaroa Expedition (Kon-Tiki) 2012 and The Ra Expeditions (1972).
Wharram was also inspired by Eric De Bisschop and his 1938 Voyage of Kaimiloa, whereby he sailed a double canoe from Hawaii, across three oceans to France. He correctly theorized that ancient Asian people sailed on canoe craft into the Pacific Ocean.
2. Innovative design: The two identical Tikopian lapstrake canoes used in the voyage (named Lapita Tikopia and Lapita Anuta) were designed by James Wharram, who is known for his unique designs of multihull boats. These canoes, began being built in Bohol, Philippines by Filipino craftsmen in April, 2008 with traditional materials and methods. They featured a unique catamaran or double-hulled design which improved stability and allowed the boats to sail faster.
3. Traditional navigation techniques: The crew used traditional navigation techniques, such as the stars, waves, birds, and marine life, to navigate the open ocean without modern navigational instruments, making their journey relatable to ancient sailors and demonstrating the possibility of sailing by the power of nature.
For the last passage of the voyage Tulano Toloa and Anutan schoolteacher Caulton Koriga put away all modern aids, navigating without any Western instruments, instead relying on the sun, predominant ocean swells, the odd landmarks and at night, the always-reliable stars.
On 16 March, 2009, the tiny idland of Anuta is spotted at dawn, making Tulano very happy indeed. The work and planning of the last four years has culminated in this. The Anutan villagers proudly display their 70 traditional canoes, one of which, at over 200 years of age, may be the oldest working vessel in the world.
Loaded down with fresh water and bananas, the final passage of the voyage is from Anuta to Tikopia, about 70 miles away. Now ten people are crew, half of them Polynesian. All control of the canoe is handed over to them.
The two vessels are donated to the island peoples of their respective names.
4. Cultural exchange: The Lapita Voyage brought together people from various countries and cultures to work together and share knowledge and experiences. The trip also allowed the team to learn about the history and culture of the places they visited and connect with the local population.
Among the crew was experienced ocean sailor and German author Klaus Hympendahl. Klaus, who died in 2016, raised the funds for the expedition.
Joining for part of the voyage is Atholl Anderson, professor of prehistory, archaeology and anthropology from New Zealand who also has a profound interest in the migrations of the Pacific islands and has authored many papers on the subject. Will his participation in this voyage alter his inherent skepticism in the sailing abilities of the ancient boats, particularly their ability to sail to windward?
5. Environmental awareness: The voyage raised awareness about the impact of modern pollution on the oceans and served as an advocate for environmentally-friendly practices such as using traditional materials and renewable energy sources.
In summary, the Lapita Voyage is interesting because it is a historical recreation of ancient navigational techniques and boat-building, paired with innovative designs. Its emphasis on cultural exchange and environmental awareness makes it a fascinating and educational expedition.
Tons more information and videos about the voyage here: https://www.lapitavoyage.org/
What I loved about this film:
1. The Lapita Voyage: The Documentary showcases a real-life journey scheme whereby a team of sailors, led by James Wharram, embark on an adventure to sail 4,000 miles through the Pacific Ocean on a raft that was built using ancient Polynesian designs. The voyage was in honour of the Lapita people, an ancient civilization that used sailing vessels to spread their culture around the Pacific, and thus, the documentary is an educational and breathtaking look at ancient boatbuilding and seafaring skills.
2. The Raft: The raft constructs used are captivating; James Wharram and his team sustain the ancient Polynesian boatbuilding techniques during the creation of the raft. The raft’s construction is rooted in the theory that early Polynesians used to create rafts and outrigger canoes, and through the film, James Wharram showcases the history, engineering, and practical usage behind the raft. The documentary is significant for boat enthusiasts and anyone interested in ancient boatbuilding techniques.
3. Intuitive Storytelling: The filmmakers employ an intuitive storytelling style that sustains the viewer’s interest throughout the documentary. The footage showcases the real-life issues surrounding open-ocean sailing, including extreme weather, injury, and the mental issues around sailing and adjusting to life at sea. The engaging and authentic storytelling makes you feel like you’re a valued member of the crew.
4. Visual Brilliance: The Documentary’s visual aspect is stunning. The documentary takes place on the vast ocean, and the filmmakers take advantage of it, showcasing fantastic and colourful visuals, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife to give viewers the feel of being immersed in this empyrean space.
5. Diverse Cast: The Lapita Voyage documentary showcases an outstanding cast of individuals coming together and navigating the open ocean on the raft. A mix of Polynesians, British, and other nationalities are used to provide a comprehensive experience that showcases the skills and culture of ancient Polynesians that they brought about in this voyage.
In summary, The Lapita Voyage documentary is an inspiring, documentary that showcases a team of sailors striving for cultural education, ancient boatbuilding, and voyage heritage. The combination of the real-life adventure, the innovative storytelling, charismatic crew, and stunning visuals results in a captivating experience from start to finish.