The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini has reached Cape Town, South Africa, marking a significant milestone in its Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (NSP-II) expedition. The vessel and its crew were warmly welcomed by Ms. Ruby Jaspreet, Consul General of India in Cape Town, Rear Admiral (JG) Lisa Hendricks, Chief of Staff of the South African Navy Fleet, and Captain Atul Sapahia, Defence Adviser of India at Pretoria. To make the occasion even more unique, the South African Naval Band performed a welcoming ceremony.
The NSP-II expedition began on October 2, 2024, from Goa, launched by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff. This incredible journey is being led by two Indian Navy women officers, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A. Their mission is to sail over 23,400 nautical miles (approximately 43,300 kilometers) in eight months. Before reaching Cape Town, INSV Tarini stopped at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), and Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands (UK). The voyage is expected to conclude when the vessel returns to Goa in May 2025.
During its two-week halt at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, INSV Tarini will undergo necessary maintenance and repairs. Meanwhile, the crew will interact with members of the South African Navy at Simon’s Town Naval Base and Gordon’s Bay Naval College. They will also take part in community outreach programs, strengthening ties between the two nations.
The expedition has not been without challenges. The crew has endured extremely rough seas, freezing temperatures, and powerful storms. At times, the journey has faced winds of more than 50 knots (93 km/h) and waves as high as seven meters (23 feet), making the mission a true test of skill and endurance.
INSV Tarini is a 56-foot sailing vessel, built indigenously and inducted into the Indian Navy in 2018. It has taken part in multiple sailing expeditions and represents the ‘Make in India’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, showcasing India’s ability to develop advanced maritime capabilities.
Apart from highlighting India’s expertise in naval operations, Navika Sagar Parikrama-II is an important step toward empowering women in the armed forces. This expedition is expected to inspire young women to join the Indian Navy and contribute to marine and scientific research.
INSV Tarini’s stop in Cape Town also reflects India’s commitment to strengthening maritime relations with South Africa and other nations in the Indian Ocean Region. In recent months, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Talwar participated in the 8th edition of Exercise IBSAMAR in South Africa in October 2024, while INS Tushil visited Durban in January 2025, engaging with the South African Navy and the Indian community in KwaZulu-Natal. Such initiatives help build strong maritime security partnerships and promote safe and secure seas.
As INSV Tarini continues its expedition, it stands as a testament to India’s dedication to oceanic exploration, international cooperation, and the growing role of women in defense services. (PR)