The information in the graphic and published below comes from master carvers and others who helped bring the Iosepa canoe from an idea into reality.
Gathering Materials
A total of seven logs of dakua wood were harvested from Fiji and shipped over 3,000 miles to Laie, Hawaii. Six of the logs weigh over 6,000 pounds.
Carving the Parts
Master carvers Kawika Eskaran and Tuione Pulotu carved the main parts of the canoe from the dakua logs. A combination of modern and traditional tools were used. Along with chainsaws and sanders, workers uses tools like ko’i. Hundreds of community volunteers contributed their time and effort to building the Iosepa.
Connecting the Canoes
To connect the canoe, the team creates iakos. Iakos are made from several sheets of pine wood glued together and bent in its unique load-bearing shape. The two canoes were joined in a special ceremony held by BYUH Professor William Wallace. Then, the canoe was repeatedly sanded and painted with a special marine varnish to protect the wood from water damage.
The Launch
When the Iosepa was ready to launch, an ahaaina, or celebration feast, was held. Afterwards, the boat was pushed by hundreds of community members into the water. The Iosepa then embarked on its maiden voyage.
Correction on infographic: The Iosepa is made from dakua wood from Fiji since koa wood large enough to carve the canoe hulls wasn't available.