After a week at sea, the 16-member crew of the ‘Uto ni Yalo’ reached Nuku’alofa, Tonga, on Sunday, just in time for the Pacific Islands Leaders Forum Meeting scheduled for Monday.
The ‘Uto ni Yalo’ represents a cohesive region, celebrating its maritime heritage and traditional navigation skills. The journey was particularly noteworthy as a woman took on the role of sail master, typically held by male experts on board.
Iva Vunikura, who has been with the ‘Uto ni Yalo’ for 12 years, has completed extensive journeys, covering over 80,000 nautical miles from Fiji to Mexico, alongside her travels throughout the Pacific region.
Reflecting on their voyage, she mentioned, “It was tough because we were coming into the wind, but we didn’t give up, which is why we are here today.” Vunikura, hailing from Vione, Gau, was one of three women aboard the vessel, and she finds comfort in the expansive Pacific waters while remaining committed to her sailing pursuits.