INSV TARINI flagged off from Cape Town for the final leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition

Goa Khabar : INSV Tarini was ceremonially flagged off from the Royal Cape Yacht Club for the final leg of her journey to Goa on 15 Apr 25, at 1030 hours local time (1400 hrs IST). The send-off was graced by the presence of the Officiating Consul General of India in Cape Town, the Defence Attaché of India to South Africa, members of the RCYC Governing Council, and representatives of the Indian community in Cape Town.

The circumnavigation is a significant endeavour aimed at promoting ocean sailing in India, showcasing the strength and resilience of Indian women in uniform, and highlighting India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

As part of the ongoing Navika Sagar Parikrama II, INSV Tarini, proudly crewed by Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, made a scheduled stopover at Cape Town, South Africa.

During her port call at Cape Town, INSV Tarini served as a hub for numerous outreach and diplomatic engagements. The vessel played host to several esteemed guests including:

• Prabhat Kumar, Hon’ble High Commissioner of India to South Africa.

• Mr Reagan Allen, Deputy Speaker of the Western Cape.

• Mr Johnathan Rhodes, former international cricketer and a friend of India.

• Ms Kirsten Neuschäfer, winner of the prestigious Golden Globe Race 2022–23 and a noted solo circumnavigator.

• Smt Ruby Jaspreet, Counsel General of India at Cape Town.

• Members of the Indian diaspora and local dignitaries.

This visit also provided an opportunity for cultural exchange and highlighted the growing maritime cooperation between India and South Africa.

In addition to hosting high-profile guests, the crew of INSV Tarini engaged in a series of interactive events aimed at promoting gender equality, women’s empowerment, and India’s capability in indigenous boat building. These included:

• A special interaction with students from the Indian diaspora.

• Experience sharing with prominent citizens, and members of the diplomatic community at RCYC, Cape Town, where the officers shared insights into their journey, the challenges of ocean sailing, and the vision behind Navika Sagar Parikrama.

• A formal session with faculty and Select students at the University of the Western Cape.

• Engagement with Naval Cadets at the Naval College, inspiring the next generation of naval officers.

• Interaction with young aspiring sailors of the Royal Cape Yacht Club(RCYC) Sailing Academy, promoting maritime spirit and camaraderie.

The crew also utilized the stop to undertake routine and essential maintenance of INSV Tarini, ensuring the vessel remains in peak operational condition for the final stretch of the voyage.

INSV Tarini is expected to reach Goa by end May 2025, marking the successful completion of yet another proud chapter in India’s maritime history. The Navika Sagar Parikrama II continues to be a beacon of women empowerment, maritime excellence, and national pride.