How very disappointing to read of a professional D. Gordon discrediting genuine masters of the open ocean. The crew of both Waka Tapu have worked hard to appreciate the rigours of sailing before embarking on this historical venture under the captaincy of two men who have been schooled in the natural navigational skills passed on by the Micronesian master, the late Mau Pialug.
At no stage has this been touted as a mystical or even romantic event. Families of those currently sailing have been feeling anything but. The first island they reached after 43 days sailing through Peter Blake territory was Tubuai and the people there were absolutely overawed about their visitors.
I would hope that Mr Gordon will meet with Jack Thatcher on his return home to dispel any concerns he has about the navigation he questions. In the meantime, he might like to Google Mau Pialug to appreciate navigation with which he is not familiar.

P. Taikato, Tauranga.