The Uto ni Yalo (UNY) is set to embark on an international voyage to Tonga this Sunday after nearly ten years. This vessel, along with its sister ships from the region, has long been a symbol of resilience in the Pacific, advocating for traditional voyaging practices, sustainable sea transport, and ocean health.
This journey, named the “Sautu Voyage – Moana ‘o e Melino,” will represent Pacific goodwill at the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting (PIFLM53). It celebrates the shared heritage and ancestral connections between Fiji and Tonga, embodying the unity and collaboration of the Blue Pacific Continent as it faces modern challenges, in line with the Forum’s theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now.”
Reverend James Bhagwan, a trustee of the Uto ni Yalo Trust, emphasized the voyage’s importance. He stated that the Sautu Voyage serves as a call to action for the Pacific. As the crew sails to Tonga, they will be reminded of their shared responsibility to safeguard their oceans and uphold the values that unify the Blue Pacific.
Additionally, the voyage offers a unique opportunity for young seafarers, many of whom will be experiencing blue ocean voyaging for the first time. Strengthening the voyaging community and fostering collaboration between civil society organizations and governments will be central to this journey, promoting the goals outlined in the 2050 Strategy.
This historic expedition also coincides with Tonga’s recent acquisition of its own traditional voyaging canoe, the Hinemoana II.
The voyage has been made possible through substantial support from various organizations, including the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, Greenpeace Australia Pacific, and the Office of the Pacific Oceans Commissioner, along with contributions from National Geographic Pristine Seas, Tradewinds Marine, Value City, and Niranjans.
Dr. Kathryn Mengerink, Executive Director of the Waitt Institute, underscored the importance of this collaboration. She expressed her honor in working alongside the Uto ni Yalo team, Pacific Leaders, and local partners to push forward the vision of protecting 30% of the Pacific Ocean by 2030, ensuring its health for the communities that depend on it and future generations.