Overview
The first people to explore the Pacific Ocean did so without any scientific instruments. They navigated using complex systems of knowledge about the stars, winds, and the movement of the ocean. They also knew how certain cloud formations and sea birds indicated that land was near.
These explorers deliberately searched for new land. As part of their strategy, they sailed into the wind. That way, if their search failed, they could return home quickly and safely, with the wind behind them.
Over centuries, Pacific explorers discovered many new lands in this way. And when there were few places left to discover by sailing into the wind, they began to search across and down the prevailing wind.
Later navigators sailed to known lands by following instructions handed down over many generations.