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An Improbable Voyage By Reed Boat To Easter Island: A Journey Of Faith, Determination, And Discovery

Cade Simmons

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Published in 8 Men And A Duck: An Improbable Voyage By Reed Boat To Easter Island

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In the annals of human exploration, there are few endeavors that match the daring and improbable voyage of the reed boat Rahiti Tane from South America to Easter Island.

8 Men and a Duck: An Improbable Voyage by Reed Boat to Easter Island

by Nick Thorpe

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In 2016, a group of seven intrepid explorers set out on a quest to recreate the legendary journeys of the ancient Polynesians. Led by Chilean anthropologist Camilo Rapu and Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl Jr., the team aimed to sail from Peru to Easter Island on a traditional reed boat, using only the stars and the currents as their guides.

The choice of a reed boat was not merely symbolic. Reeds have been used for centuries by indigenous peoples of South America and the Pacific Islands to construct seaworthy vessels. These boats, known as balsas, played a crucial role in the settlement of Oceania by Polynesian voyagers.

The Rahiti Tane was a modern adaptation of an ancient design. Measuring 60 feet long and 20 feet wide, it was constructed from over 10,000 bundles of totora reeds, lashed together with coconut fiber. The boat's hull was reinforced with a layer of wood and fiberglass for added strength.

On April 28, 2016, the Rahiti Tane set sail from Callao, Peru, with a crew of seven: Rapu, Heyerdahl Jr., and five other experienced sailors. The journey was fraught with challenges from the start. The reed boat proved to be slower and more difficult to maneuver than expected, and the crew faced strong currents and unpredictable weather.

But the crew persevered, relying on their ancient navigational knowledge and their unwavering faith. They sailed for over two months, covering a distance of more than 4,000 miles. Along the way, they encountered curious whales, inquisitive dolphins, and countless seabirds.

On June 29, 2016, the Rahiti Tane finally reached its destination: Easter Island. The crew was met with cheers and celebration by the island's inhabitants. They had not only accomplished their goal but had also written a new chapter in the history of maritime exploration.

The voyage of the Rahiti Tane was more than just a scientific expedition. It was a journey of faith, determination, and discovery. It demonstrated the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of traditional knowledge.

In the words of Camilo Rapu:

"This voyage was not just about reaching Easter Island. It was about showing the world that the ancient Polynesians were capable of great feats of navigation. It was about connecting with our past and inspiring future generations."

The legacy of the Rahiti Tane voyage continues to inspire today. It is a reminder that anything is possible if we have the courage to dream and the determination to see it through.

And as Thor Heyerdahl Jr. said: