Kon-Tiki Thor Heyerdahl’s telegram went out: “Am going to cross the Pacific on a wooden raft, Kon-Tiki, to support theory that the South Sea Islands were peopled from Peru. Will you come?”

How might you respond to the invitation to be a crew member aboard the Kon-Tiki?

If you were a person who longed for adventure, why might this voyage be appealing?

What dangers might be involved in such a voyage?

Kon-Tiki’s Voyage 4,300 miles Lima French Polynesia

Kon-Tiki Constructed of nine thick Peruvian balsa logs lashed together with hemp rope. The raft measured 45 ft. long in the center, but was tapered 30 ft. at the sides, producing a bluntly pointed bow. Two masts supported a large rectangular sail, and a bamboo cabin was built near the center of the raft. A large steering oar at the stern and five centerboards completed the design. No metal was used.

The Voyage Kon-Tiki’s six member crew lead by Thor Heyerdahl will sail 4,300 miles across the Pacific Ocean. On April 28, 1947, Kon-Tiki is towed out of Callao Harbor in Lima Peru and set adrift. On August 7, 1947, the 101st day of the voyage, Kon-Tiki crashes into the Tuamoto Archipelago.

Kon-Tiki’s Voyage 4,300 miles Lima French Polynesia

Taking Notes Bi-fold your paper Label the two columns Courage Careful Preparation

Courage Willing to risk a voyage of 4,300 miles on an open raft The raft is relatively small, powered by wind and current They knew they would crash, but were hopeful of survival Planned to stay on Kon-Tiki at all costs—Hold on! They valued one another so much that, “If one survived, all would survive.” Remained calm, each one knowing what he should do. Trusted one another with their lives. All survived because of the courage each crew member displayed.

Careful Preparation Made a plan for their inevitable crash, knowing they couldn’t avoid the reef. Secured everything of value in the cabin. Prepared a raft, placing provisions in it. A water tight radio Food Freshwater Placed all documents and film of the voyage in water tight containers Medical supplies Tried to cut off centerboards so Kon-Tiki might ride over the reef. Trimmed the sails to reduce the wind surface. Made an anchor using old batteries and sticks, tied it to the mast and threw it off the aft of the raft. Sent out a radio message of their location Put on life jackets and shoes.