Outrigger Canoeing is a paddle sport steeped in tradition and teamwork that originates from the island cultures of the Pacific.
It is blend of ocean adventure, physical challenge, and deep connection with the water. Outrigger canoes were once used for travel, fishing, and exploration. Today, they carry that same spirit of unity, respect for the sea, and shared journey.
The building of a new canoe was a significant event involving most of the members of a village: priests, craftsmen, labourers, helpers. From choosing the right tree to launching the new canoe, each step in the process had to be done correctly with the proper ritual and respect to preserve the life of the tree in the canoe and create a canoe that would, in turn, sustain the lives of those who used it.
Traditionally each canoe is a living entity, with its own spiritual power or mana. We entrust our lives to our canoes and the elements and we treat them and each other with respect.
An outrigger canoe is designed for stability and speed over great distances. A curved float, called an ama, extends out from the side of the canoe, connected by wooden, metal or carbon fibre arms (iakos). This unique design allows paddlers to glide efficiently across waves, surf downwind runs, or explore calm rivers and waterways with confidence.
There are many variations of Outrigger Canoe including single craft (OC1), doubles (OC2), three or four person (OC 3/4) for wave surfing and as a team of six (OC6). It’s even possible to strap two OC6’s together to make a team of twelve (OC12).
Every paddle session brings something new, the challenge of working together, the thrill of catching a run, or the calm of a sunrise on glassy water. Whether you’re racing, training, or just out for fun, outrigger canoeing invites you to be part of something bigger, a crew, a community and a tradition that spans oceans.
At Far South Coast Paddlers, we welcome beginners, experienced paddlers and people of all ages and abilities. Contact us to discover more about the rhythm, camaraderie, and joy of outrigger canoeing.
The Role of Each Seat in an Outrigger Canoe (OC6)
An OC6 is all about teamwork. Each paddler has a specific role that contributes to the canoe’s rhythm, balance, speed, and safety. While everyone paddles hard and works together, each position has its own primary focus.
Seat 1 – The Stroke
Sets the rhythm and cadence for the crew.
- Maintains a smooth, consistent stroke rate
- Adjusts stroke rating to best suit water and weather conditions
- This seat requires focus, rhythm, and an even tempo
Seat 1 is more about feel than brute strength.
Seat 2 – Timing & Support
Sets up timing for the rest of the crew
- Paddles on the opposite side to Seat 1 and must mirror timing and technique perfectly
- Supports seat 1
Seat 3 – Power & Stability
Power seat with and generally the caller
- Provides solid power and clean technique
- Helps keep timing strong through the middle of the canoe matching Seat 1
- Calls the changes (huts)
Seat 4 – Power and Stability
- Drives the canoe forward with long, powerful strokes
- Matches seat 2 and helps stabilise the middle section
Seat 5 – The Watcher & Power
Another big engine-room seat, but with extra responsibility to help seat 4 and the steerer
- Provides strong, reliable power
- Keeps an eye on the ama side for balance
- Communicates with the steerer about what’s happening in the canoe
Seat 6 – The Steersperson
The steerer is the captain and is responsible for control, safety, and tactical decisions.
- Makes decisions about lines, direction, waves, and safety
- Reads the ocean and adjusts the crew’s power and timing accordingly
- Communicates requirements with the crew
The steerer is the captain and commands experience, calmness under pressure, and strong leadership and situational awareness.
Even with defined roles, the OC6 only moves well when everyone:
- Trusts and respects each other
- Uses the same technique and timing
- Communicates clearly
- Adapts to conditions
