The Palauan traditional ocean-going sailing ship Alingano Maisu arrived at its first stop, Kaohsiung, on Saturday, March 7. The Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) held a welcoming ceremony, during which Vice Minister Wu Hsin-hsiu (吳欣修) greeted Captain Sesario Sewralur and his crew and spoke on Taiwan's high regard for traditional maritime culture.

Sailboats of varying sizes and styles from sailing associations, universities, and elementary schools met the Maisu in the harbor. Wu emphasized that the most remarkable aspect of the voyage is that it relies entirely on natural signals — wind direction, ocean currents, astronomical phenomena, and marine ecology. He said that no modern navigation instruments or propulsion equipment are used, fully embodying the profound and precise traditional maritime knowledge of the Austronesian peoples.

Sewralur expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality of Taiwan and explained that sailing on the ocean brings people together as one family. The crew consists of 14 members, including two Paiwan people from Taiwan. By actually sailing the ancestral sea routes, the Maisu not only emphasizes the magnificent history of our ancestors traversing the oceans, but also continues the cultural connection that transcends sea and generations.

The OAC stated that during its stay in Kaohsiung, the Maisu will serve as a floating classroom, focusing on sharing navigation knowledge in discussions and exchanges with Taiwanese indigenous groups and sailing associations.

The Maisu’s voyage is the longest ever planned, covering approximately 6,200 nautical miles over a period of about four months. After departing Taiwan, the ship will sail to Okinawa, Guam, Saipan, Satavay Island, and Yap Island before returning to Palau.