What was impressive about Polynesian navigation techniques?

Polynesian navigation was extraordinary due to its reliance on deep understanding of natural patterns and celestial navigation. Navigators used the positions of stars, especially the Polynesian wayfinding stars, to chart their course across vast ocean distances. They also observed ocean swells and currents, as well as the behavior of birds and sea life, to guide their way. This knowledge was passed down through generations orally, with navigators memorizing detailed maps of the stars and ocean patterns. Polynesians used double-hulled canoes that were well-suited for long voyages, allowing them to explore and settle islands across the Pacific with remarkable accuracy. Their sophisticated navigation skills enabled them to establish extensive trade networks and cultural connections across a vast and challenging maritime landscape.