The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook

In January 1779, Cook’s ships arrived at Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island of Hawai’i. The bay, with its clear waters and towering volcanic cliffs, was a sacred place. As the Resolution and Discovery entered the bay, they were greeted by thousands of Hawaiians in canoes, who appeared ecstatic and prepared for their arrival. Cook and his men were welcomed with reverence, and the local kahuna (meaning expert, often in medicine or religion), Koa, performed ceremonies that suggested deep religious significance. The Hawaiians’ reaction, coupled with Cook’s earlier strategic and cautious approach to the islands, underscored the significance of the encounter. Cook’s decision to land at Kealakekua Bay coincided with the Makahiki festival, a time dedicated to the god Lono, further elevating the sense of cosmic alignment and anticipation surrounding their arrival.

The Hawaiians appeared to regard Cook as the god Lono. The procession led Cook to the Hiki’au Heiau, a sacred temple dedicated to Lono, where Cook was subjected to various religious rituals, including the sacrifice of pigs. The Hawaiians’ behavior, characterized by prostrations and chants of “Lono,” suggested a spiritual or cultural significance. Cook participated in these rituals with patience and curiosity, despite not fully understanding their meaning.