How did Polynesian navigators find their way without mechanical instruments?

Polynesian navigators were exceptional in their ability to find their way across vast ocean distances without the aid of mechanical instruments. They relied heavily on astronomy and accumulated knowledge gained over generations. Their navigational techniques included observing the stars, the sun, and the moon to determine direction and time.

Navigators also used their understanding of ocean currents and swells, recognizing how they would affect their course. Additionally, experienced voyagers remembered the flight patterns of birds, the behavior of marine life, and the characteristics of waves that indicated proximity to land.

This sophisticated combination of techniques allowed them to travel between islands across the expansive Pacific Ocean with remarkable accuracy, showcasing their deep understanding of their environment and the natural world around them.