The Indian Naval Sailing vessel INSV Tarini has embarked on the second leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II expedition, setting off from Fremantle, Australia, on a journey to Lyttelton, New Zealand. The departure, marked by an enthusiastic crowd that gathered to cheer for the crew’s safe passage, is part of a significant dual-handed circumnavigation of the globe by two women officers of the Indian Navy.
Flagged off by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, on October 2, this expedition showcases the capabilities and resilience of women in maritime roles. The crew, comprised of Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, made a planned stop in Fremantle on November 9 after an impressive 39-day voyage covering 4,900 nautical miles under sail.
During their time in Fremantle and nearby Perth, the officers received a warm welcome and engaged in numerous activities highlighting the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender equality and global maritime cooperation. They were honored as special invitees at the Western Australia Parliament, where they interacted with parliamentarians and participated in a parliamentary session that acknowledged their accomplishments and the journey undertaken thus far.
Prior to their departure, Tarini underwent comprehensive system checks and repairs, facilitated by a shore support team from India. Provisions for the next leg of the voyage were also stocked. The crew received an important briefing from their mentor, Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd), who provided insights into the upcoming passage and evaluated the vessel’s readiness for the challenges ahead.
As ambassadors of India’s maritime heritage, the crew engaged with the local Indian diaspora at a vibrant event organized by the Consul General of India in Perth. Their interactions included visits to the Royal Australian Naval Base HMAS Stirling and the Ocean Reef High School, where they shared their experiences and inspired the students about the values of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of challenges.
The next phase of the expedition will see INSV Tarini navigate across Cape Leeuwin, through the Great Australian Bight, around Tasmania, and finally towards the South Island of New Zealand, covering a distance of 3,400 nautical miles (approximately 6,300 kilometers) in an estimated 20 days. The crew is expected to encounter varied weather conditions, including frontal systems and dropping temperatures, illustrating the complexities involved in such an ambitious maritime endeavor.
