The basics of the V6

The V6 or Va’aOno

The Va’a is the most ancient boat in the world, used by the Polynesians to explore the islands of the Pacific. It is a canoe with an AMA (outrigger) connected to the hull by two IATO (wooden arms for the V6). The va’a is a rapid, slender boat that can be used on both calm waters and on the ocean.
The V6, six-seater Va’a, is the finest, measuring 13 meters. It is used in major races such as the HawaikinuiVa'a (Polynesia) and the Molokai hoe (Hawaii).
The V6 is composed of a team of six paddlers, each of whom plays a specific role based on their position in the boat.

The positions

The six paddlers are arranged from the front to the rear of the canoe:

“Te faahoromatanua”, or “FAAHORO”,is number 1. He sits at the front of the canoe. He sets the rowing rhythm, and is the example that the entire crew follows. Alone at the front, the Faahoro must have nerves of steel and feel his teammates through the boat. The Faahoro is a difficult position. In races lasting three to six hours, he must maintain the same rhythm and adapt it according to the sea and race conditions. He must also receive the TARE’s orders and modify the stroke and rhythm at his request.

“TearataiFaahoro”: number 2 paddles on the side opposite number 1. He helps the Faahoro maintain the pace. He must be perfectly in time with the Faahoro to avoid the rowers on his side being out of synch.

"Teturai": numbers 3 and 4 are the motors. They are the strongest rowers and are positioned in the centre of the canoe. They give the va'aono speed and maintain it. Number 3 plays a very important role : he is the "TARE" (explained below). He gives the paddling orders to the entire team.

"Tenumerapae": number 5 helps the coxswain. He pays close attention to the PEPERU’s actions in order to work with him. On rough seas, number 5 can help the PEPERU steer.

"Tetau’ai" or PEPERU: number 6 is the coxswain, a very important position on the v6. His paddle is slightly larger in order to serve as rudder. His main role is to direct the Va'aandsteer the best course. However, he is also a rower and must also propel the VA'A.

The Tare and the orders

On each V6, the "TARE",usually one of the motor rowers,encourages and leads his team by his tone of voice. The Tare is the captain of the canoe; he sets the pace and decides on the type of stroke.
For example, the main order is "hey" (a short sound). The “hey” order is given every 10 to 15 strokes, and indicates a change of side. When this order is given (during a stroke), the crew paddles once more powerfully before switching sides.
During downwind sessions and departures into the surf, the Tare and the Peperu give the order to the team to launch the canoe.
Finally, the tare must listen to his team to save their energy and avoid exhaustion.