By Linny Folau

A whale shaped vessel is the latest creation from master craftsman Sitiveni Fehoko, launched at Faua Wharf on April 20.

Sitiveni said the 41-ft vessel called Matamoana is a work he collaborated on with his brother 'Isikeli over the past five-months.

He designed the vessel with inspiration from the humpback whale. 

Originating from Ha’ano in Ha’apai, Sitiveni runs Art of Tonga at Popua, producing and selling traditional carvings such as war clubs and pendants. He learned the trade from his father Tevita, his family being the descendants of carpenters and carvers.

He said, the wooden vessel incorporates the family's skills of woodcarving and boat building.

Sitiveni made numerous detailed carvings, which he incorporated into this unique boat with the concept of the humpback whale hull

"This was my dream to make a vessel shaped as a whale for tourists to go whale watching on in Tonga, and whale watching companies or families, or companies can rent for cruises," he said.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Sitiveni is forging ahead launching his vessel during a challenging time.

“One of my traits is that nothing can stop me if my mind sets to it and with what is happening now, that is part of life.

“But more importantly, I hope that designing this vessel will trigger local artist's creative minds and maybe another person will get inspired and build something grander. The idea is that we create and contribute towards developing Tonga,” he said.

"For now, I am just happy if my friends and family enjoy cruising on it. That will make my day."

The vessel can take 10-15 people and is available to rent by tourist operators for whale watching or families.

Sitiveni has also copyrighted his artistic design shown on the Matamoana.