B523 - Antique Hawaiian outrigger 36-inch

The Antique Hawaiian Outrigger – 36 inch is a masterfully crafted model inspired by the traditional double-hulled canoes once used by ancient Polynesians to explore the vast Pacific. Hand-built entirely from solid Teak wood, the model highlights the rich hues, natural oils, and exceptional durability that make Teak one of the world’s finest boat-building materials.

Every element—from the gentle curves of the twin hulls and the intricate lashings to the upright sail—is shaped and assembled by hand, faithfully reflecting the balance, simplicity, and ingenious functionality of the original Hawaiian outrigger canoes. The model is displayed on a wooden stand, accentuating its long, slender silhouette and the graceful rise of its bow and stern.

Both a cultural homage and an artful centerpiece, this piece brings the spirit of ocean voyaging and island craftsmanship into any space—a timeless celebration of Hawai‘i’s seafaring heritage.

History

The Hawaiian outrigger canoe is a cornerstone of Polynesia’s ancient seafaring heritage. Long before Western vessels entered the Pacific, Polynesian navigators journeyed across thousands of miles guided solely by the stars, ocean currents, and prevailing winds. The outrigger’s innovative design—pairing a primary hull with a stabilizing float—gave these early explorers the speed, balance, and confidence needed to traverse vast stretches of open ocean.

In Hawai‘i, the canoe grew to represent far more than a means of travel. It embodied community, craftsmanship, and cultural identity. Outriggers served in daily life for fishing, transport, and trade, and were also crafted for racing, each component shaped from native hardwoods and bound together through time-honored lashing techniques. Over generations, Hawaiian canoe design evolved in form and refinement, yet the essence of the outrigger remained constant.

Today, the Hawaiian outrigger stands as a powerful symbol of Pacific ingenuity and navigation—a testament to the courage, skill, and deep ocean knowledge of the Polynesian wayfinders who first settled the Hawaiian Islands.