Polynesian seafaring
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For their long-distance trips the Polynesians used out-rigger canoes that could reach a speed of seven or eight knots. They could carry up to 200 people plus animals and economic plants.
Navigating offshore
For navigating offshore they had several techniques. For example they were geared to the Southern Cross (the most distinctive constellation in the Southern sky). In addition they knew about 300 other constellations and five so-called small stars, the planets of the solar system.
They also knew a lot about flow and wave motion and landscape attributes. All of this knowledge was retained with stick charts.
Learn more
To learn more about the Polynesians’ audacious way across the Pacific, read the articles about the history of ancient Polynesia and the history of new Polynesia.