The project was initiated in 1985 by typographer Poul Pedersen, who lived in New Zealand from 1958 to 1962. His interest in Maohi culture gave rise to the idea for a boat project, which would draw attention to the Maohi´s culture and social conditions and throw light on the maritime achievements that underlie the inhabitants of the Polynesian islands.

From 1985 to 1987 Poul Pedersen built and launched a 64 feet traditional Polynesian double canoe and simultaneously co-founded an association to support the project.

The command of the boat, named Ara-Moana, was handed over to a small group of people called Project Group Ara-Moana. Project Group Ara-Moana consists of Bo Præst Nielsen (daily leader), Sune Sandø (project coordinator), Rasmus Elmquist Casper (project leader Ara-Moana), Kim Skade (contact person) and Susanne Koch Andersen (chairperson of Scandinavian/Polynesian Friendship Association Ara-Moana (SPFAA)).

The Project Group constitutes an effecient and energetic group and the task of SPFAA is to contribute to the completion of the project.

Ara-Moana has been test sailed in Northern European waters since it was launched.