Camakau

[john sefton]

A narrow dug-out craft having only one outrigger. Always kept to the windward side when sailing.
The craft is double ended and may be sailed either way.
The mast is pivoted at the head and rake is reversed when going about.
The hull is carved from a single tree.
Log Book vol 17 no 1.
Fiji SG248 548.

[aukepalmhof]

As given by the Fiji Post leaflet.

The CAMAKAU or Canmakacu is the most common kind of Fijian sailing canoes, based on a hollowed-out log but with built-up sides and decking to enable it to sail in open seas, and a large platform for passengers and cargo. The sail is triangular with the apex pointing downwards and attached to one of the ends of the canoe. When a change of direction is required, the foot of the sail is simply moved to the other end of the canoe. A skilful sailor can balance the canoe so that the outrigger boom hangs above the water (vakalilicama), and under these conditions of minimal resistance these canoes can match for speed any other sailing vessel in the world. A typical length today is about 10 metres, though much larger ones were built in the past. They are still being constructed in small quantities by craftsmen in Lau, the eastern island of Fiji.

Fiji 1998 44c sg1032, scott?
Fiji 1996 $1.50 sgMS960, scott771A
Fiji 1938 3d sg 257, scott?

[Anatol]

Fast, seaworthy single outrigger sailing canoe still in use on some of the outer islands in the 1960s. Served mainly for transporting ceremonial exchange items, for fishing,and, in early days, for war. Generally owned by a chief, community, or family group. Hull a single greenheart log, but when enlarged by butting 2 logs together,the craft becomes a veikoso. Hull oval in cross section;outrigger (weather) side straight, lee side bowed; stern elongated and pointed; bow sharp and vertical. Ends decked over. often ornamented; high washstrakes added,originally sewn, later nailed. Caulked with gum from the breadfruit tree. Three primary booms extend to the float;supplemental booms and stringers provide strengthening. Float, roughly half the length of the hull connected to booms by pairs of stanchions that cross above the the booms. Outrigger kept to windward.Platform covers hull and extends out each side slightly;a small thatched hut for provisions and gear might be placed on the platform. Steered with a long, heavy oar attached with a rope tied to holes at upper end of the blade.Mast stepped amidships on platform, pivoted rake in direction of travel; braced by curved stick from the central boom; stayed fore and aft, 2 shrouds.Shrouds passed through holes at the masthead. Triangular sail, apex down; yard rests in a special slot on deck;tack shifted from end to end when going about;foot boomed. Sail originally of woven pandanus leaves. Also sculled or poled. Lengths of early canoes to 30m, later 8-15m; e.g., length 14m, beam 0,64m derpth 0.5m.
Nauru 1975; 20с; sg136.
Fiji 1984; 20c; SG?
Source : A Dictionary of the world’s Watercraft from Aak to Zumbra.