Canoe Etiquette

At times we forget the true values of Outrigger Canoe paddling. It is believed that canoes have a life entity, each one has a distinct and separate personality on the water. We believe that there’s more to the art of paddling an Outrigger than just jumping into a canoe, Waka, Va’a, Wa’a which ever it maybe. Traditionally the Polynesians carved the canoe from the log (Koa Canoe) so they see it as a living spiritual identity.

Serious paddlers adhere to a certain actions in order that the ‘mana’ or spirit of the canoe is not upset by any disrespect. These include;

• The canoe whatever you paddle is an extension of you.
• Don’t step over the canoe it can cause bad Ka’ma (feeling) to all those who paddle her. In Hawaii it is believed to step over another is to cut their life, therefore, the same applies to your canoe.
• Don’t swear in the canoe, again, bad ka’ma with the Va’a spirit, serves to upset the crew’s efforts if you do apologize to her.
• Always enter the canoe from the ama side as it could huli(roll over).
• Standing up in a canoe is heavily frowned upon. You could fall out causing a huli.
• When changing seats, jump in the water. It is a water sport after all and it may cool you down.
• Customarily a prayer is said before a journey. It needn’t be long or religious in nature. Doing so helps centre the crews mentally and spiritually.
• What happens on land stays on land, what happens at sea stays at sea.
• Recognize others, be recognized, help others, and be helped. Such is a family relationship.
• When you paddle an Outrigger Canoe you all become as one entity.

See you all on the water and paddle hard.