After a week at sea, the 16-member crew of the ‘Uto ni Yalo’ reached Nuku’alofa, Tonga, on Sunday, just ahead of the Pacific Islands Leaders Forum Meeting set to begin on Monday. The ‘Uto ni Yalo’ is emblematic of regional unity, celebrating a rich heritage of oceanic exploration and traditional sailing practices.
Adding to the significance of the voyage, Iva Vunikura served as the sail master, a position typically held by experienced men. Vunikura, who has been with the ‘Uto ni Yalo’ for 12 years, has completed extensive sailing journeys, including a remarkable trip covering over 80,000 nautical miles from Fiji to Mexico.
Reflecting on their challenging journey, she stated, “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, embodying her passion for sailing and a deep connection to the expansive Pacific Ocean.