Afautasi (/ˌfɑːʊˈtɑːsi/ FAH-uu-TAH-see)[1] is a Samoan boat, similar to a longboat. Fautasi boats are around 100 feet in length and can accommodate a rowing crew of 50.[2]Acoxwain uses a drum to beat a tempo to coordinate the rowing.[3] Each fautasi also has a captain.[4] The meaning of fautasi is "to build as one," which reflects the need for teamwork in using the boats.[2] Prior to the use of modern-day ferries, fautasi were the main mode of transport between Upolu and Savai'i.[5]
Today fautasi are mainly used in racing events.[5] Traditionally, men involved in the racing spent eight weeks away from their families and other luxuries, and training with their captain.[6][4] The races take place during Independence Days week celebrations in June.[1] The top three finalists in the races receives a cash prize from the Government of Samoa.[7] The sport used to be male-only, but in 2013, there was an all-women crew.[5] The first woman to become a fautasi skipper was Zita Martel in 2001.[8] Entrants from Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga and Hawaii have participated.[9][10]
Fautasi are made of hollowed-out trees.[5]
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