Watch Voyagers: Exploring Pacific Waters

Pacific voyagers set sail heading east. For the last 1000 years they have sailed between settled islands, stretching from Fiji to the Philippines, and unsuccessfully searched for new islands. Now, with bigger, stronger double hull canoes, amazing navigators find the paradise islands of Tahiti. However, for these adventurous voyagers, this is just the beginning. Fearlessly they cross wild, stormy seas and voyage into the unexplored Pacific. Following the winds and their ancestors' stories they find the tiny Easter Island. The birds lead them to Hawai'i and they follow whales and the stars of Maui's Hook to New Zealand. They find every island in the Pacific and strong cultures evolve. Empires are established and warriors fight brutal sea battles. But when European boats cross the horizon, this ocean world will change forever.

4000 years ago, in hand-built canoes, people dare to venture into the unexplored Pacific Ocean, searching for islands to start new lives on. Over countless generations they voyage from Taiwan to Vanuatu and beyond. Guided by the sea, stars and the stories of their ancestors, they become master navigators, and unlock a sea of islands. But ocean exploration brings great risks. To overcome merciless natural barriers, these voyagers must deeply understand the brutally powerful Pacific. They build homes on thousands of islands, developing rich cultures filled with song, dance and legends of the sea. But after discovering Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, they find no more islands. Their ocean world remains connected by their canoes, and for 1000 years voyagers sail into unknown, perilous waters, hoping that one day the sea will lead them to new lands.