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Iosepa timeline

Iosepa, a Hawaiian sailing canoe is pictured in the north of Oahu
Iosepa, a Hawaiian sailing canoe is pictured in the north of Oahu
Photo by Courtesy of Polynesian Cultural Center

A timeline of the Iosepa Canoe:

Mid-1970s

The movement to preserve the Hawaiian legacy by reconstructing ancient canoes started with the building of Hokulea.

Mid-1990s

The BYUH Hawaiian Studies Department, led by Uncle Bill Wallace, launched a project to build a canoe in the year.
February 7, 2001

Seven massive logs arrive at a vacant site managed by Hawaii Reserves, Inc. to be carved into a canoe.

March 2001Kawika Eskaran, the master carver and captain for the upcoming voyage, together with Tuione Pulotu from Tonga, carver for the Tongan royal family, started to work on the logs.
October 2001Uncle Bill Wallace named the canoe Iosepa, following instructions he received in a dream of his Hawaiian grandfather.
November 1, 2001President M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles dedicated and launched the Iosepa.
May 2004The Iosepa sails to the Big Island of Hawaii.
June 28, 2008The Iosepa was showcased to the public at the PCC.
May 2011The Iosepa was launched from Hukilau Beach.
August 2014Iosepa launches from Hukilau Beach planning to sail to Kauai.
Fall 2015An 11 crew members, comprised of students from various countries, working every day to prepare the canoe for a journey.
June 15, 2016The Iosepa launched from Hukilau Beach, but was short-lived as failed logistical plans prevented further sailing.
May 30, 2024Iosepa sets sail as part of the Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture, the largest celebration of indigenous Pacific Islanders since 1972.