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Okeanos Marianas to arrive tomorrow
The Okeanos Marianas vessel that is traveling from Auckland, New Zealand is currently on track for its arrival to the Marianas this Saturday, despite the harsh ocean conditions in the last few days.
According to Emma Perez, managing director of Okeanos Sustainable Sea Transport Ltd., the Okeanos Marianas vessel left the island of Chuuk around 12pm Wednesday and is making its way to the Marianas where it will be utilized as a cargo vessel or means of transportation between Saipan and the Northern Islands.
The vessel is set to arrive on Saipan tomorrow, Oct. 28, and preparations are being heightened for its arrival.
Preparations are currently kicking into high gear with the organization of the flotilla that will sail to the Northern Islands and the arrival of special guests like Sesario Sewralur, a voyager who personally sailed with master navigator Mau Piailug many years ago.
The Marianas Visitors Authority will also start decorating the area around the Guma Sakman in Susupe where the vessel will be arriving.
Perez hopes the entire community comes out on Saturday to welcome the Okeanos Marianas.
A traditional Ateri ceremony will be conducted when the vessel arrives. The ceremony will be led by the captain of the voyage, master navigator Peia Petai.
Aside from the traditional ceremony, the celebration will also include live entertainment like traditional dances, live music from local bands, and more.
Elders from the Carolinian and Chamorro communities, Lino Olopai and Juan Tenorio, will give speeches at the arrival celebration.
Perez said the Okeanos Marianas would be arriving in canoe standard time so it requires flexibility.
Individuals who are interested taking part in the arrival celebration should monitor the Okeanos Marianas’ Facebook page.
