Goa, May 2025 – The Indian Navy is poised to extend a hero’s welcome to the triumphant crew of Navika Sagar Parikrama II, following the successful completion of their historic circumnavigation of the globe aboard the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini. In a rare and commendable feat, Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K completed the voyage in double-handed mode, relying solely on wind and sail power.
The Flag-in Ceremony marking the culmination of this landmark expedition will be held on 29 May 2025 at Mormugao Port, Goa, and will be presided over by the Hon’ble Defence Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh.
Voyage Overview: 25,400 Nautical Miles of Endurance and Excellence
Flagged off from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node, Goa on 2 October 2024, the eight-month-long journey saw the duo—affectionately known as “DilRoo”—sail approximately 25,400 nautical miles (47,000+ km) across four continents, three oceans, and past three of the world’s Great Capes. They faced winds reaching 50 knots (93 km/h), freezing temperatures, and treacherous weather conditions, particularly during the third leg from Lyttleton (New Zealand) to Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), which involved navigating the notorious Drake Passage and rounding Cape Horn.
Global Port Calls and Strategic Diplomacy
Throughout their journey, the crew made port calls at:
- Fremantle, Australia
- Lyttleton, New Zealand
- Port Stanley, Falkland Islands
- Cape Town, South Africa
At each location, the officers engaged in strategic outreach and diplomatic interactions, meeting parliamentarians, Naval cadets, school children, diaspora members, and university faculty. In a remarkable honour, they were received as special invitees by the Western Australian Parliament, recognizing their maritime achievement and the message of women empowerment they carried across oceans.
Honouring Courage, Skill and Woman Power
This circumnavigation is a powerful demonstration of the Indian Navy’s core values: professionalism, resilience, and commitment to Women Power. The voyage stands as a tribute to the motto “Courageous Hearts, Boundless Seas”, exemplifying the indomitable spirit and perseverance of Indian women officers in some of the most challenging seafaring conditions on Earth.
The crew was also honoured through virtual interactions with the Defence Minister on the eve of International Women’s Day, during which he lauded their role in strengthening national defence and championing greater inclusion of women in uniform. Adm Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, also engaged with the crew throughout the expedition, applauding their skill, professionalism, and camaraderie.
A Defining Chapter in India’s Maritime Legacy
As the nation awaits their return, the Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition stands as a milestone in India’s maritime history. It is a journey of exploration, diplomacy, innovation, and empowerment, redefining global perceptions of Indian seafaring and setting a new benchmark for future naval expeditions.
This historic circumnavigation reaffirms the Indian Navy’s dedication to maritime excellence and its unwavering pledge to uphold national honour across the vast oceans of the world.
