INSV Tarini has commenced the final leg of its Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition, departing from the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Cape Town on April 15, 2025. The ceremonial send-off, held at 10:30 AM local time, was attended by the Officiating Consul General of India in Cape Town, the Defence Attaché of India to South Africa, members of the Yacht Club’s Governing Council, and representatives from the Indian community in Cape Town.
The Navika Sagar Parikrama II is a significant endeavor aimed at promoting ocean sailing within India, celebrating the resilience and capabilities of Indian women in uniform, and showcasing the country’s indigenous shipbuilding skills. The expedition is helmed by Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A, who stopped in Cape Town as part of their journey.
While in Cape Town, the ship played host to a range of diplomatic and outreach activities, strengthening ties between India and South Africa. Prominent attendees included the High Commissioner of India to South Africa, the Deputy Speaker of the Western Cape, renowned cricketer Johnathan Rhodes, solo circumnavigator and Golden Globe Race 2022-23 winner Kirsten Neuschäfer, and the Consul General of India in Cape Town. Additionally, members of the Indian diaspora and local dignitaries also engaged with the crew, reflecting the event’s emphasis on cultural exchange and maritime cooperation.
The crew organized various interactive sessions to promote gender equality, women’s empowerment, and India’s indigenous boat-building abilities. Highlights included discussions with students from the Indian diaspora, storytelling of their expedition experiences with diplomats and citizens, and collaborative sessions with naval cadets and aspiring sailors from Cape Town’s Sailing Academy. The vessel also hosted academic engagements at the University of the Western Cape.
During the port call, INSV Tarini underwent essential maintenance to prepare for the final stretch of its journey to Goa. The ship is expected to reach its destination by the end of May 2025, marking another milestone in India’s maritime history. This voyage continues to symbolize women empowerment, maritime excellence, and national pride.
