Juneau leaders bless voyagers at launch ceremony ahead of Hōkūle‘a send-off
Capt. Mark Ellis receives a ceremonial cedar rope alongside other captains during a blessing ceremony at the global launch ceremony of the Moananui...
Capt. Mark Ellis receives a ceremonial cedar rope alongside other captains during a blessing ceremony at the global launch ceremony of the Moananuiākea voyage at the University of Alaska Recreation Center Thursday afternoon. (Clarise Larson / Juneau Empire) 'I am grateful for all the love and support the people of Southeast Alaska have done for us' Though the rain poured outside in typical Juneau fashion and subsequently forced the global launch ceremony of the Moananuiākea voyage indoors, that didn't stop hundreds of Juneau residents and leaders from gathering to witness the momentous occasion.