Thursday, October 7, 1999, 7:30 p.m.
Interview with Chad Baybayan by Brandon
Fernandez
I spoke to Chad Baybayan at approximately 7:30 pm. The Hokule'a
has been out at sea for sixteen days now. The estimated position is 27
degrees latitude South. He thinks they are about 177 miles from Rapa Nui.
The canoe's current speed is 5 knots. Current wind speeds are 15-18 knots
and are steady. They are heading Manu Ko'olau (NE). The weather is still
overcast and they are having a hard time seeing the stars although they
did spot Jupiter a while ago. The swells are coming from Kona (SW) of the
canoe. They are planning to encounter the same weather for a while and are
going to keep the same course until 4:00 [?] approximately. The same type
of birds ['iwa, or frigate birds, and petrels] have been spotted but not
in great numbers. They haven't caught any fish today. Everyone on the
canoe is healthy. I asked if he had any comments
and he said they are looking for an island.
For back reports
on the leg to Rapa Nui, go to Rapa
Nui Back Reports
For more information on the leg to Rapa Nui, go to The Mangareva-to-Rapa Nui Page
For more information on the quest for Rapa Nui, go to the
PVS Homepage