Afautasi (/ˌfɑːʊˈtɑːsi/FAH-uu-TAH-see)[1] is aSamoan boat, similar to alongboat. Fautasi boats are around 100 feet (30 m) in length and can accommodate a rowing crew of 50.[2] Acoxwain uses a drum to beat a tempo to coordinate the rowing.[3] Each fautasi also has a captain.[4] The meaning offautasi is "to build as one," which reflects the structure of the boat build from one hollowed out tree, in contrast to apaopao.[2] Prior to the use of modern-dayferries, fautasi were the main mode of transport between islands such asUpolu andSavai'i.[5]
Today, fautasi are mainly used in racing events.[5] Traditionally, men involved in the racing spent eight weeks away from their families and other luxuries, and training with their captain.[6][4] The races take place during the Independent State of Samoa'sIndependence Days week celebrations in June.[1] In American Samoa, the race take place during Flag Day marking the acceptance by the Samoans of theDeed of Cession.[7] The sport is mainly a men-only sport (faaga tama), but in 2013, an all-women crew participated in the fautasi race.[5] The first woman to become a fautasi Captain wasZita Martel in 2001.[8] Entrants from Independent State of Samoa,American Samoa,Tonga andHawaii have participated.[9][10]
Fautasi are traditionally made of hollowed-out trees.[5] More modern fautasi are made out of fiberglass which is more versatile.[11]
