The Va'a in Tahiti

Between tradition, passion and self-improvement

Tahiti, cradle of Polynesian culture, is world renowned for its heavenly landscapes, its cultural richness and ancestral traditions. And among these traditions, the go, or Polynesian canoe, occupies a central place. More than just a water sports, the va'a is a real expression of Polynesian identity, mixing Story, community et transcendence.

An ancestral origin

Le go, whose name means " canoe » in Tahitian, draws its roots from themillennial history Polynesian peoples. These boats were once used for the inter-island navigation, allowing Polynesian ancestors to discover et populate the countless islands of the Pacific. In addition, a symbol of courage and resilience, the va'a illustrates the deep connection Polynesians to the ocean, source of life and wonder.

A sport that has become universal

Over the centuries, the va'a has evolved into a essential water sport. This is how in Tahiti, competition is anchored in the values ​​of respect, solidarity and perseverance. Besides, the va'a races, attract today hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators. Among them, the legendary Hawaiki Nui Va'a, who links Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa et Bora Bora, is considered as theflagship event of the Polynesian sports calendar. So if you are in the Leeward Islands, between the 29 October and 1er November 2025, I strongly recommend you de do not miss this colorful spectacle.

Technique and team spirit

Va'a is practiced in boats equipped with an outrigger ("ama") for stability. The synchronization rowers, guided by the " pepperu » placed at the back, is essential to achieve optimal performance. The most common va'a are 6 seats, V6. But there are also V1 et V2 the V3 et V4 are excessively rare, and the V12 are only seen at some competitions ou animations the V6 competition weigh less than 150 kg, while the V1 weigh between 12 et 16 kg.

A cultural and identity dimension

As a result, competitions are often accompanied by traditional songs, dances and award ceremonies, strengthening the link between the sport and culture. For many Polynesians, the va'a is a sport of course, but also a way of perpetuating traditions and transmit to younger generations the fundamental values ​​of their heritage.

The impact on tourism and the local economy

The va'a also plays a key role tourism development et economic of Tahiti and its islands. Because the competitions attract visitors from all over the world, came to admire the scenic beauty while discovering the local culture. In addition, the local artisans also take advantage of this showcase to put forward their creations, ranging from traditional canoes French remembrances inspired by the world of va'a.

Va'a and the environment

As an activity closely linked to nature, the va'a sensitized Polynesians and visitors to the preservation of the marine environment. As a result the green initiatives are increasingly integrated into sporting events, highlighting the need to protect the ocean, vital for the go and for the polynesian culture in general.

Ultimately

The va'a, with its unique blend of traditions, sport and community, embodies thevery essence of Tahiti and its islands. As universal discipline et cultural emblem, he continues tounite generations and peoples around the values ​​of respect, transcendence andlove for the ocean. So Tahiti, thanks to the va'a, shines far beyond of its turquoise waters, in sharing with the world a fragment of his Polynesian soul. It is a true living heritage and I hope you will have the opportunity to discover the practice during your stay in paradise on earth. And for those who have had this chance, you can of course tell us describe your experience in the comments section at the bottom of this page. Besides, the little blue icon on the left will automatically take you there. So you no longer have any excuses not to participate in the discussion 😉