 |
The Polynesian Cultural Center is proud to present the Iosepa, Voyage of Discovery exhibit, opening on June 28th, 2008. This new era for the Polynesian Cultural Center includes a new halau, or place of learning. The Iosepa halau includes knot tying stations, demonstrative exhibits and information about the Iosepa Voyaging Canoe, as well as to showcase a celestial navigation compass and teach guests how to navigate with only the stars, clouds, and ocean.
 |
Along with these several activities, many future activities are scheduled to open in the near future, including voyage preparation, sail opening activities, and other activities.
The halau wa'a's principle purpose is to provide protection to the Iosepa Voyaging Canoe, a sailing classroom from the BYU-Hawaii's Jonathan Napela Center for Hawaiian Language and Cultural Studies. This replication of an authentic voyaging canoe is made from fijian dakua wood, and measures over 57 feet in length. Construction of the canoe began in 2000, and the canoe has sailed on inter-island sails since being launched.
