The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini set sail from Fremantle, Australia, on 24 November 2024 at 08:30 IST (11:00 local time) for the second leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (NSP-II) expedition. The crew, led by Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, departed with high morale, with an energetic crowd bidding them farewell as they embarked on their 3,400 nautical mile journey to Lyttelton, New Zealand.
The Navika Sagar Parikrama-II is a historic circumnavigation voyage embarked by the Indian Navy, aimed at demonstrating India’s progress in maritime exploration and the empowerment of women. The expedition, flagged off by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on 2 October 2024, will witness the crew of INSV Tarini navigate around the globe, emphasizing India’s commitment to gender equality and global maritime cooperation.
After a successful first leg, which saw the crew covering 4,900 nautical miles over 39 days, the team made a planned stop in Fremantle on 9 November 2024. There, they were warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora, Australian officials, and representatives from the Royal Australian Navy. During their stopover, the crew engaged in a series of impactful activities, highlighting the role of the Indian Navy in enabling women’s empowerment and the country’s contributions to global maritime relations.
The crew members were also honored as special invitees at the Western Australia Parliament, where they interacted with parliamentarians and participated in a session where their voyage was officially acknowledged. In addition to their professional engagements, the crew participated in cultural events and visited local organizations, such as the Royal Australian Naval Base HMAS Stirling and Ocean Reef High School. Their visit inspired many, especially the students, as the crew shared their experiences, highlighting the values of stability and determination in the face of challenges.
While in Fremantle, INSV Tarini underwent a complete check-up of all systems, as well as repairs to any defects, under the supervision of a support team from India. Provisions were refilled for the next leg of the journey, and the crew received guidance from expedition mentor, Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd), who provided wisdom into the upcoming passage.
The second phase of the NSP-II expedition will take INSV Tarini through Cape Leeuwin, across the Great Australian Bight, and past Tasmania, before arriving at New Zealand’s South Island and calling at Lyttelton. The journey, predicted to take approximately 20 days, will expose the crew to challenging weather conditions, including frontal weather systems and rapidly dropping temperatures.
As they continue on their voyage, the brave women of INSV Tarini are not only pushing the boundaries of adventure but also signifying India’s growing presence in global maritime exploration and its commitment to gender equality on the high seas. (PR)