The Indian Navy’s sailing vessel, INSV Tarini, arrived in Stanley, Falkland Islands, on 17 February 2025, continuing an extraordinary journey across the globe. Under the expert command of Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K, the crew recently navigated the treacherous waters of Cape Horn. The voyage began in Goa, India, with the vessel making stops in Fremantle, Australia, and Lyttleton, New Zealand, before reaching the Falklands. Along the way, the crew sailed to Point Nemo, the most remote location on Earth, as part of their 16,000 nautical mile circumnavigation.
Built in 2017 by Aquarius Shipyard Pvt Ltd in Goa, INSV Tarini is 17.1 metres long and boasts four sails used in combination for optimal performance. During the approx 6500 nautical mile stretch from New Zealand to the Falklands, the vessel and crew faced intense challenges, including two cyclones, several cold fronts, and gusting winds of up to 45 – 50 knots, not to mention the often-confused seas. Despite these trials, the crew credit their boat-handling skills and rigorous training as the factors that allowed them to persevere through moments that tested their limits.
This monumental journey was not just a physical challenge but also a mission to inspire others. The aim was to encourage people to pursue similar challenges, as circumnavigating the Earth is a rare achievement in the context of the global population.
The officers shared their reflections on this remarkable experience:
Lt Cdr Dilna K – “Chase your dreams and grab every opportunity that comes your way. My sailing journey has taken me through rough seas and calm waters, but trusting myself and the process has helped me to go through even the toughest conditions. Believe in yourself, stay committed, and you’ll be amazed at how things fall into place”
Lt Cdr Roopa A – “Stepping into the unknown can be daunting. But, Life exists outside the comfort zone and this is what I realised whilst sailing. My sailing experiences have taught me that I’m capable of more than I ever thought possible. With determination, mental toughness, we can overcome even the most difficult challenges and discover our inner strength.”
FIMA shares in the spirit of deeper exploration and understanding of the maritime industry. The journey of INSV Tarini and her crew aims to inspire not just India but the world. While much remains to be discovered about the vast ocean, it is essential that we foster sustainable practices to protect marine resources and preserve the environment. The safety of seafarers, safety of ships, and protection of the marine environment remains a shared responsibility.
