kohalo

Kohalo refers to a type of traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe. These canoes were essential for transportation, fishing, and warfare in ancient Hawaiian society. The term "kohalo" itself is sometimes used interchangeably with other terms for outrigger canoes, but it specifically denotes a larger, more robust vessel designed for ocean voyages.

These canoes were typically constructed from single large logs, most commonly koa wood, hollowed out and shaped using stone tools. A stabilizer, known as an outrigger float, was attached to the main hull by one or more booms, providing stability in the open sea. The size and design of a kohalo varied depending on its intended purpose and the resources available.

The construction of a kohalo was a significant undertaking, often involving a communal effort and skilled craftsmanship. The ability to build and navigate these canoes allowed Hawaiians to travel vast distances across the Pacific Ocean, contributing to their settlement and cultural development. While the practice declined with the arrival of Western technology, efforts are ongoing to preserve and revive traditional canoe building and voyaging techniques.