TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Members of Lanyu’s Tao community are preparing to undertake a historic voyage to the Batanes Islands in the Philippines aboard a traditional 20-person sea canoe, retracing an ancient maritime route not crossed in more than 300 years.
The vessel, known locally as a tatala, is the largest made in modern times. It will recreate the route once used for trade and cultural exchange between Lanyu and the Batanes Islands, per CNA.
The project was made possible through collaboration among the Council of Indigenous Peoples, the Indigenous Peoples Cultural Foundation, and Lanyu’s six Tao communities. Construction of the canoe was completed in March, followed by a trial voyage on April 28. A traditional launching ceremony was held on June 9, and the vessel is scheduled to depart for the Philippines on June 15.
Council of Indigenous Peoples Minister Ljaucu Zingrur (曾智勇) said at the launch ceremony that Taiwan is a key center for the spread of Austronesian languages across the world. He said the maritime knowledge of Indigenous peoples is not only an important tribal asset but also a cultural strength for Taiwan.
Ljaucu said the voyage represents more than cultural exchange, describing it as a form of cultural diplomacy. He added that future efforts will focus on language revitalization, traditional craft exchanges, and youth visits to strengthen connections among Austronesian peoples.
The Indigenous Peoples Cultural Foundation, organizer of the “First Return Voyage in 300 Years,” said the project required three years of preparation. The canoe, named Ovayan, measures 12 meters in length and can carry up to 20 people, per CNA.
According to the foundation, 60 paddlers will rotate in shifts throughout the voyage. The journey is expected to take two days and one night, departing from Longmen Port on Lanyu and arriving at Mahatao Port in the Batanes Islands.
A fleet of seven escort vessels, led by the zero-emissions vessel Porrima P111, will accompany the canoe and provide logistical support throughout the crossing. Organizers said the expedition aims to showcase Taiwan’s Austronesian cultural heritage to an international audience.
Upon arrival in the Batanes Islands, participants will take part in a welcoming ceremony featuring traditional songs and cultural exchanges. Organizers said the event will help reconnect the Tao and Ivatan peoples through shared history and cultural ties forged across the ocean centuries ago.
