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From the crew to the students, there was never a dull moment or a chance to feel out of place. For many of us, it was our first time venturing this far out to sea, and the camaraderie made it an unforgettable experience. I have to give a special shoutout to one of the undergraduates, Ivan Dubro, who not only led a new project but also expanded the horizons of the STEMSEAS program with this being its first ocean archaeological study. Thanks to the help of Ivan, we initiated Project Huli Moku/Project Ship Search. With the help of some of the ship’s crew in naming our project , we cruised the coast of Oahu in search of lost ships, aiming to bring closure and honor to those affected by their loss.
This journey was more than just an educational trip; it was a deeply human experience that united us all. The collaboration between the crew and students created an atmosphere of mutual respect and curiosity. Our dedication to Project Huli Moku was palpable, as we all felt the significance of the history we were uncovering. Exploring Oahu’s coast and searching for lost ships gave us a profound appreciation for maritime history and a great respect to the ocean. As we navigated these waters, it felt like we were part of something bigger, a shared adventure that connected us through discovery and empathy.
- Genesis Ruiz
