The 16-member crew of the ‘Uto ni Yalo’ reached Nuku’alofa, Tonga, on Sunday after a week at sea, coinciding with the start of the Pacific Islands Leaders Forum Meeting on Monday. The ‘Uto ni Yalo’ stands as a symbol of regional unity and is deeply connected to the cultural heritage of seafaring and ocean stewardship.
Notably, the voyage featured Iva Vunikura serving as the sail master, a position traditionally occupied by men. Vunikura has been part of the crew for 12 years and has an impressive record of sailing over 80,000 nautical miles, including extensive journeys from Fiji to Mexico and across the Pacific region.
Reflecting on their challenging journey against the wind, Vunikura stated, “It was tough because we were coming into the wind, but we didn’t give up, which is why we are here today.” Hailing from Vione, Gau, she was one of three women aboard the vessel and finds peace in the vastness of the Pacific Ocean.