Discover the ancient art of Polynesian navigation by paddling under the stars in Hawaii. Join the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society for a journey that blends cultural storytelling with water adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic paddling endurance and comfort on water.
Wildlife
History
This region has been pivotal in Polynesian voyaging, preserving centuries-old navigation techniques.
Conservation
The organization emphasizes sustainable practices, including marine debris cleanup and reef protection.
Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society
Discover the ancient art of Polynesian navigation by paddling under the stars in Hawaii. Join the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society for a journey that blends cultural storytelling with water adventure.
Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society is a Kihei, Hawaii–based organization that preserves and shares Hawaiian voyaging and paddling traditions. The society offers hands-on outrigger canoe experiences that combine active paddling with cultural education, including chants, stories, and demonstrations of traditional practices. Its primary outings include the Cultural Canoe Experience, a 90-minute daytime paddle that introduces participants to Hawaiian chants and heritage while on the water; the Hawaiian Star Navigation Paddle, an evening program that teaches how ancient Polynesians used stars and celestial cues to navigate the Pacific; and the Full Moon Paddle, a 1.5-hour nighttime voyage that pairs moonlit paddling with traditional chanting for a memorable coastal experience.
Featured on The Adventure Collective, the organization focuses on authentic cultural interpretation and community-based voyaging knowledge. Programs emphasize participant engagement, encouraging guests to learn paddling techniques, join in cultural chants, and gain a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian maritime history. The society operates from Kihei and schedules both daytime and nighttime outings to showcase different aspects of Hawaiian tradition and ocean navigation.
Bookings are suitable for visitors seeking experiential cultural activities in Maui. Clear trip summaries outline durations and cultural themes so guests can choose the paddle that best fits their interests. Safety protocols and paddling instruction are provided during each outing to support participant comfort on the water. For travelers prioritizing cultural immersion, authentic chants, and traditional star navigation stories, the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society offers focused, experience-driven paddles in Kihei, Hawaii. Advance reservations recommended for evening and moon paddles often.
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Based in Kihei on Maui
Trip Lengths
90 min · 1.5 hr
Varying day and night adventures
Tours Offered
3 Experiences
Cultural and navigation paddles
Cultural Focus
Hawaiian Traditions
Chants, star navigation, moon paddles
Choose a 90-minute cultural paddle, a star navigation night, or a full moon voyage — book ahead to secure space.
Bring a flashlight
Use a red flashlight to preserve night vision while listening to stories and observing the stars.
Dress warmly
Hawaiian nights can be cooler; wear layers to stay comfortable during the paddle.
Respect the environment
Follow guide instructions to minimize impact on marine life and coastline.
Arrive early
Get ready and listen to safety briefings before dark to ensure a smooth experience.
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Keeps you warm during the cooler night paddling sessions.
winter
Paddling gloves
Provides grip and protects hands during paddling.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Star chart or navigation app
Helpful for identifying constellations and celestial markers.
Dry bag for personal items
Keeps your valuables dry while paddling.