Two Indian Navy women officers have successfully completed a remarkable and challenging global circumnavigation, navigating through the world’s three largest oceans and enduring severe cyclones, turbulent seas, and some of the most isolated maritime regions on Earth.
The Journey and the Officers
Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K, known collectively as ‘#DilRoo’, sailed aboard the INSV Tarini — an Indian Navy Sailing Vessel — on an expedition that began on October 2, 2024, from Goa. Their mission was ambitious: to circumnavigate the globe unaided, relying solely on wind power and sails.
Over eight months, these officers covered approximately 25,400 nautical miles (about 50,000 kilometers), crossing four continents, three oceans, and navigating around the three Great Capes, adhering to strict international rules for circumnavigation.
This journey marked the second edition of the Navika Sagar Parikrama and is notable for being the first time Indian women circumnavigated the globe with a two-member crew.
Ports of Call and Global Engagements
During their voyage, the crew made strategic port calls at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttleton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), and Cape Town (South Africa). Along the way, they engaged in diplomatic and outreach activities — meeting parliamentarians, local Indian communities, students, naval trainees, and university staff, enhancing India’s soft power and maritime goodwill.
Their efforts were recognized internationally, including a special invitation as guests at the Western Australian Parliament. Their feat was widely praised by global sailing organizations, local communities, and international lawmakers as a symbol of women empowerment, maritime excellence, and national pride.
Battling the Elements: Storms and Cyclones
The expedition was not without severe challenges. The crew faced intense winds of up to 50 knots (about 93 km/h), freezing temperatures, and relentless storms. Particularly daunting was the third leg of their journey, from Lyttleton to Port Stanley, where they confronted three cyclones and navigated the treacherous Drake Passage before rounding the infamous Cape Horn.
Cape Horn, situated near the southern tip of South America, is known for its volatile weather and perilous seas. The officers braved continuous heavy rain, fierce winds, and waves towering over five meters, earning them the honorary title of ‘Cape Horners’ — a recognition reserved for sailors who pass this formidable cape under sail.
Legacy of the INSV Tarini and the Path Ahead
INSV Tarini, named after the Tara Tarini temple in Odisha, has a distinguished history, having completed the first Navika Sagar Parikrama in 2017–18 with an all-women crew — the first Indian team to sail around the world.
This latest expedition is historic as it marks the first time an Indian woman duo has completed the circumnavigation without any additional crew members, highlighting India’s growing maritime capabilities and the increasing role of women in naval leadership.
Welcome and Recognition
The crew is expected to return to Goa on May 29, 2025, where a ceremonial reception will be held in their honor, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior Navy officials, Ministry of Defence representatives, and the officers’ families. A formal debrief and recognition event will follow.
The Navy plans a sail parade to celebrate the triumphant return, with the sailing fraternity poised to welcome these trailblazing officers.
The ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’ expedition by Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K stands as a testament to human endurance, skill, and courage. Their voyage not only showcases India’s maritime strength but also symbolizes women empowerment and a commitment to exploring new horizons.
This historic journey paves the way for future Indian sailors, especially women, and reinforces India’s position on the global maritime stage — charting a course for a more empowered and inclusive future.
