Dauaru

Dauaru is a traditional Oceanic navigation technique and a type of double-hulled canoe found in parts of Melanesia, particularly among the indigenous peoples of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. The dauaru is designed for long-distance voyages across the Pacific Ocean, a testament to the sophisticated seafaring knowledge of these cultures. These canoes are characterized by their sturdy construction, often built from local timber and propelled by sails and paddles.

The term "dauaru" itself refers to both the canoe and the navigational methods employed to use it. These methods involved a deep understanding of celestial bodies like stars and the sun, as well as currents, wave patterns, and bird migrations. Navigators would mentally chart courses without the use of modern instruments, relying on a complex system of knowledge passed down through generations. The dauaru played a crucial role in the exploration, settlement, and trade networks that connected island communities across vast distances. While the prevalence of traditional dauaru canoes and their associated navigation techniques has diminished with the advent of modern technology, efforts are underway in some communities to preserve and revive this important cultural heritage.