Wind continues to elude voyagers

By Jan TenBruggencate
Advertiser Science Writer

From left, Hokule'a navigator Ka'iulani Murphy, sailing master Bruce Blankenfeld and Captain Nainoa Thompson view the sunrise off a north Kaua'i cliff yesterday. The winds were calm, but picked up later in the day. Jan TenBruggencate • The Honolulu Advertiser

ABOARD HOKULE'A — Weather again delayed Hokule'a from launching its voyage in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands yesterday, and frustrated canoe leaders began preparing alternative plans to account for crew members who couldn't wait and schedules that would not be met.

The wind picked up late yesterday morning, then showers fell, and as daylight faded, the weather was moist with a minimal wind that changed directions frequently.

Capt. Nainoa Thompson, as he has daily since the intended departure date Saturday, periodically reviewed with the crew reports from the National Weather Service and his own observations of the weather pattern.

At a windless sunset Monday, he pointed out the clean outline of the setting sun and the distinct line of the horizon.

If there were wind in the distance, it would kick some salt spray into the air and create a smoky indistinct line, he said. The crisp line meant the lack of wind went out for more than 20 miles from shore.

He said he hoped for wind by morning, but as members of the crew joined him at sunrise yesterday, the horizon line was still clear.