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Outrigger canoes feature one or more lateral support floats which are fastened to one or both sides of the main hull.While smaller canoes often have outriggers on one or both sides of the main hull, many larger canoes will sport double outriggers or even double hulls.As part of the Polynesian heritage, a number of canoes have been built to replicate those used in the days of old.A number of Hawaii’s replica Polynesian voyaging canoes are based on the windward side of Oahu.This side is favored for its relatively flat waters.Some of the best Kailua real estate for sale features views of the marinas and harbors that protect these behemoth historical structures.

One of the Polynesian Voyaging Society’s two flagship vessels is the Hokulea, a full- scale replica of a double-hulled voyaging canoe.Built in 1975 and since maintained by the society, Hokulea garnered worldwide attention when it sailed from Tahiti to Hawaii using conventional and traditional navigation techniques alone.The Hokuloa is made of fiberglass while the sister ship, Hawaii Loa, is made of more traditional materials.The Hawaii Loa makes similar trips to the Hokulea and has allowed the navigational culture of ancient Hawaii and the Pacific a living history.