The 16-member crew of the ‘Uto ni Yalo’ completed their seven-day journey to Nuku’alofa, Tonga, arriving just in time for the Pacific Islands Leaders Forum Meeting scheduled for Monday. The ‘Uto ni Yalo’ represents regional unity and showcases a strong connection to the ocean and traditional sailing practices.
A notable highlight of this voyage was the presence of Iva Vunikura as the sail master, a position typically filled by male crew members. Vunikura, who has been with the ‘Uto ni Yalo’ for 12 years, has an extensive sailing history, covering over 80,000 nautical miles from Fiji to Mexico, along with significant travels throughout the region.
Reflecting on their challenging journey, she remarked, “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 on the crew, finding comfort in her work amid the vastness of the Pacific Ocean.