Lakatoi

A lakatoi is a type of double-hulled canoe traditionally used by the Motu people of Papua New Guinea for the hiri trading voyages. The hiri was a complex annual trading expedition undertaken by the Motuans, sailing from the villages around Port Moresby westward along the Papuan coast, primarily to the Gulf Province, to trade pottery for sago and other goods.

Construction and Design:

Lakatois were not carved from single logs like dugouts, but were constructed from multiple logs lashed together. The hulls were typically made from mangrove logs, chosen for their buoyancy. The number of logs used varied depending on the intended size of the lakatoi, which could range from relatively small vessels to larger ones capable of carrying several tonnes of cargo and a crew of up to thirty people. The logs were shaped and lashed together using traditional methods involving vines, fibers, and wooden pegs. A distinctive feature of the lakatoi was its crab-claw sail, made of woven matting. Multiple sails were often used to catch the prevailing winds. The platform connecting the hulls provided a deck for the crew and cargo. Steering was accomplished using a large oar or paddle.

The Hiri Trade:

The lakatoi played a crucial role in the hiri trade, which was a significant cultural and economic institution for the Motu people. The hiri was more than just a trading venture; it involved complex rituals, social interactions, and the establishment of long-term trading partnerships with communities in the Gulf Province. The voyages were dangerous, subject to unpredictable weather and the possibility of encountering hostile groups. The success of a hiri voyage was crucial to the well-being of the Motu villages, ensuring a reliable supply of sago, a staple food.

Decline and Legacy:

The hiri trade gradually declined in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the arrival of European traders and the introduction of new goods and trading practices. The introduction of metal pots, for example, reduced the demand for Motuan pottery. However, the memory and cultural significance of the hiri and the lakatoi remain strong. The Hiri Moale Festival is held annually in Port Moresby to celebrate the tradition, featuring lakatoi races and other cultural performances. The lakatoi continues to be a potent symbol of Motuan culture and maritime heritage.