At Kamaka Hawaii, we are honored to celebrate the legacy of the Hokulea in collaboration with the Polynesian Voyaging Society. Together, we present the limited edition Hokulea (Star of Gladness) Tenor 4-string Ukulele—a masterpiece in both craftsmanship and story. This instrument is not just about music. It embodies a journey, heritage, and historic legacy.
The design reflects Kamaka’s deep roots in Hawaii, weaving the wisdom of the past with the spirit of today to guide us into the future. Each premium select koa body was carefully handpicked from the same tree—a rarity in itself. This ensures a richness in color and grain that is both striking and timeless. The sound is undeniably Kamaka, staying true to our classic composition while embracing beautiful new features.
The Blue Paua Abalone rosette encircling the sound hole comes from Aotearoa, its blue hues mirroring the Moananuiakea (vast Pacific Ocean) that connects and surrounds our islands. Every detail of the Hokulea Limited Edition Ukulele carries meaning. From the beginning, we envisioned a design that would be instantly recognizable and iconic, just like the Hokulea’s sails on the horizon. Through intricate inlays, we have captured the essence of the canoe—its lashings, ropes, and masts—bringing it to life in a way that evokes pride and reverence.
A true highlight of this collaboration is the incorporation of a piece of the original Hokulea vessel into the design. We carefully took a cross-section of the historic iako (crossbeam) and integrated it into the masts of the canoe design, ensuring that a part of the vessel itself is carried forward in this 50th Anniversary Edition.
The North Star, which has guided navigators home for generations, shines atop the headstock. This is also the first Kamaka ukulele to feature a new logo, a bold yet elegant mark of progress and legacy. The sail-shaped headstock, originally designed by Sam Kamaka Jr. in the early 1970s for the sailing canoe, fittingly makes its return for this tribute.
The Hokulea 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Ukulele is more than wood and strings. It carries the heart and soul of both Kamaka Hawaii and the Polynesian Voyaging Society. Together, we honor the past, embrace the present, and continue to chart the course for future generations.