The first Fijian canoe was built over 3000 years ago. Fijians relied on the canoe for fishing, travel, defense and communication.

The Camakau was designed to sail in open waters, allowing island communities to connect and share traditions.

In 1954, Fijians welcomed the queen's ship with their fleet of sailing canoes. View video footage of the Royal visit to Fiji.

In 1975, the 50 cent coin featured the Fijian canoe, highlighting its ties to commerce and acknowledging its historical significance.

Unfortunately, dependence on fuel-powered boats has increased and overtime has displaced Fijian canoes.

Many of the Fijian islands no longer build sailing canoes and few people still possess the knowledge of canoe building.

The Fijian canoe still has its advantages, though. Sailors do not rely on fuel which cuts the cost of fishing and minimizes pollutants that are emitted into the air and sea.

Pacific Blue Foundation began holding the Veitau Waqa event, Fijian canoe races, in 2010 in order to promote the importance of the Fijian canoe and its potential application today and in the future so that the knowledge of canoe building and sailing skills can be preserved.

At the 2011 Veitau Waqa event, children partook in the Bakanawa races, which allowed Fijian youth to be involved and gain interest in Fijian long-held boating tradition.