Satawal

Satawal is a single island a little over a square kilometre in the eastern outer islands of Yap, with a few hundred people, and it matters far beyond its size: it is where Mau Piailug learned and kept the star navigation that he later taught to Hawaiian voyagers, work that restarted traditional wayfinding across the Pacific. Canoe building and navigation are still practised here.

History

In 1849 an earthquake caused a flood that covered the island for several hours, leaving only the trees above water, and in April that year eight survivors sailed to the Marianas to settle there for good (Wikipedia, Satawal).

What's there

• The navigation tradition - the star wayfinding kept alive on the island.
• The canoe building - ocean-going craft still made in the traditional way.
• The scale - a few hundred people on a little over a square kilometre.
• The Piailug legacy - the knowledge passed on that revived Pacific voyaging.

When to go

December to April is the drier season. The field trip ship calls every few weeks at best and schedules shift. Visits must be arranged well ahead.

Before you go

There is no air service and the ship is the only way in and out, running rarely. Custom rules on dress and behaviour are strict. Visitors are hosted by families and should not expect facilities of any kind.

Nearby

Puluwat is east, and Yap is far west.

Key facts