Kabekel - War Canoes

The pristine waters of Palau hold within their depths tales of ancient seafaring and fierce battles. Today, we invite you to embark on a journey through time to explore the remarkable world of the “Kabekel”—war canoes—a treasure trove of Palauan history, culture, and resilience.

Guardians of Tradition

Distinguished from any other vessels in the Pacific, war canoes are low-lying marvels, their grandeur not defined by their size, but by their indomitable spirit. Averaging 40 feet from stem to stern, these paddling canoes were more than just vessels; they were the heartbeat of Palauan communities. They were a shared treasure owned by hamlets and overseen by traditional chiefs. These mighty vessels facilitated both transportation and served as forward bases during warriors' expeditions to neighboring villages. In times of strife, the war canoes were the answer, with each hamlet assembling its own expeditionary force.

The last recorded account of these war canoes in action were in the late 18th century, when the arrival of firearms sparked fierce battles between the Koror and Melekeok sides. Records tell of a formidable expedition in 1783, where Koror—aided by Englishmen and a fleet of 200 canoes, including war canoes—embarked on a historic journey. Traditional chiefs, including the respected Ibedul, took command, marking a significant chapter in Palau's history.

Masters of Craftsmanship

Adorned with exquisite shell ornaments and intricate hull paintings, the war canoes exemplified Palauan craftsmanship. With stories etched into every inlay and decoration, each war canoe had its name rooted in tradition or legend. The design, guided by the directives of traditional chiefs, was a meticulous process, representing the village's unique characteristics.

A Tale of Survival

As colonial powers rose to prominence, warfare was prohibited, leading to the eventual decline of war canoes. Under German rule, war-related activities, including canoe construction, waned. By Japanese rule, only three or four war canoes remained, likely built right before the ban on warfare.

By the 1970s, war canoes had all but disappeared in Palau. It wasn't until 1979 that these magnificent vessels reemerged, commemorating the upcoming establishment of self-government. With generous support from the U.S. National Park Service, two war canoes were constructed, one for Airai and one for Ngchesar. The ceremonial races, held under the iconic KB Bridge, marked the resurgence of these cultural icons.

A Revival Through Celebration

Kabekel war canoes experienced a rebirth during the Ninth Festival of Pacific Arts in 2004. This remarkable cultural event, spanning ten days, saw the participation of 2,453 representatives from 27 countries and regions in Oceania, along with approximately 5,000 overseas visitors. The festival played a pivotal role in the revival of war canoes, with new vessels on display and thrilling races held.

Discover Kesebekuu in Airai

In the state of Airai, one war canoe still bears witness to the past. Named Kesebekuu, it was crafted around the 1990s by village elders and younger men involved in the men's association. The use of adze tools, a common choice in canoe construction across Palauan villages, adds a touch of authenticity to this living relic.

Unlock the Secrets of the Canoe

These canoes aren't just vessels; they're a manifestation of tradition, where each sitting position signifies the ranking of individuals within their traditional clan. The stories etched within their very framework speak of resilience, history, and unity.

SoulTrips invites you to delve into the rich history of the Kabekel war canoes. As you explore Palau, our journeys unveil the heritage, culture, and stories that make this destination unique. With each trip, you become a part of the living legends that thrive on this island paradise.