Paddling 101

The Hawaiian Lunar Calendar (Kaulana Mahina) was vital for outrigger canoeists. It guided understanding of tides, fish behavior, weather, and resource management (kapu), informing safe navigation, successful fishing from waʻa, and even canoe building material selection. A timeless cultural guide.

The surf zone, where waves break near the shore, presents a dynamic challenge for outrigger canoe paddlers. Understanding wave frequency, the time interval between waves, is crucial for timing your maneuvers and navigating this area safely.

Understanding the angle of the waves is key to efficient and safe outrigger canoe paddling. Here's how to adjust your course and paddling technique based on wave direction.

When paddling an outrigger canoe, the ability to read and respond to waves is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Understanding and respecting the ocean's dynamic nature is crucial. Wave, tide, wind, and weather conditions directly impact our paddling experience, influencing everything from our route planning to our paddling technique.