Hōkūleʻa and her crew departed the Southeast Alaska village of Petersburg this morning and traveled through a winding 22-mile channel called Wrangell Narrows to reach their next stop in Wrangell, Alaska.

Petersburg, or Séet Ká Kwáan meaning “people of the fast moving waters (referring to Wrangell Narrows), is at the north end of the Narrows, which is created by Mitkof Island to the east and southeast, and the islands of Kuprenof and Woewodski to the north and west.  The Wrangell Narrows was among the most dangerous legs of the voyage so far, because of its powerful currents. Yesterday, the crew spent a full-day meeting the community and conducting dockside canoe tours in Petersburg.  Prior to Petersburg, the crew spent a day in Kake or Ḵéex̱ʼ, for cultural and educational exchanges.

Weather permitting, Hōkūleʻa’s crew is planning to visit several more communities in Southeast Alaska including Ketchikan, Metlakatla and Hydaburg.  Hydaburg will be the last stop in Alaska before entering British Columbia. For the latest updates and to track the Moananuiākea Voyage, visit hokulea.com.

Photos from Leg 3, Day 13 – Petersburg to Wrangell

Photos from Leg 3, Day 11 – Petersburg