Seven years after the first Navika Sagar Parikrama, history is once again unfolding at sea. Two courageous Indian Navy officers, Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, are about to embark on the second edition of this adventurous voyage, circumnavigating the globe on the indigenously-built sailboat, INSV Tarini. 

The duo’s expedition, flagged off by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi from INS Mandovi, Goa, sets the stage for an eight-month journey where they will navigate over 21,600 nautical miles—relying solely on wind power and their grit.

The Women Behind the Expedition

Lt Cdr Roopa A, 32, hailing from Puducherry, and Lt Cdr Dilna K, who joined the Navy in 2014, both share a deep passion for adventure. Their stories are a blend of ambition, determination, and a love for the sea. Lt Cdr Dilna’s fascination with adventure began in childhood, inspiring her to join the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and pursue a career in the Navy. “I always wanted to do something different and challenging,” she says, recounting her journey from rifle shooting to mastering the art of sailing.

Lt Cdr Roopa’s journey is equally inspiring. Starting her sailing career in dinghy boats, she couldn’t resist when the Navy called for volunteers for the Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition. “It’s every sailor’s dream to circumnavigate the globe,” she explains. Her passion for the sea is matched only by her dedication to honing her skills, preparing for what is sure to be the adventure of a lifetime.

Rigorous Preparation

For the past three years, Lt Cdr Roopa and Lt Cdr Dilna have been training tirelessly. They’ve sailed a staggering 38,000 nautical miles and completed trans-oceanic journeys, honing their skills through both solo and crewed voyages. Their training under Commander Abhilash Tomy, a seasoned circumnavigator, provided invaluable lessons in handling their boat and managing unforeseen repairs at sea.

The officers began with six-member crewed sorties before advancing to dual-handed expeditions, sailing from Goa to Port Blair and back, and then to Mauritius. These voyages instilled the confidence needed for their current mission with Lt Cdr Roopa stating that they’ve spent more time at sea than on land in recent years.

Life at Sea: A Blend of Adventure and Routine

Sailing across the vast expanses of the ocean presents its own unique set of challenges. As Lt Cdr Roopa explains, “There’s no typical day at sea—every day is different.” Their days will involve setting up sails, maintaining equipment, watchkeeping, and chores, all while analyzing weather reports and sending situation updates to the Navy. Limited internet access will allow them to occasionally connect with their families.

But it won’t be all work and no play. The officers have packed their personal items, each representing a bit of home and comfort for the long months ahead. Roopa has brought along books written by astronomer Carl Sagan and a treasured soft toy panda, affectionately named ‘Pan Pan,’ given to her by her sister. She’s also stocked up on home-made pickles and a playlist of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons songs. Dilna, meanwhile, is taking her ukulele, books, and a stash of comfort food—Calicut chips, tapioca chips, and of course, plenty of idli and dosa batter.

A Message to the Next Generation

As these trailblazers prepare to embark on their circumnavigation, their message to the next generation of aspiring sailors and adventurers is clear: believe in yourself. Both officers emphasize the importance of confidence, persistence, and seizing opportunities when they come your way.

“When you dream big and pursue it with all your heart, setbacks will come. But you must turn those obstacles into stepping stones,” Lt Cdr Roopa advises. Lt Cdr Dilna adds, “Opportunities don’t come every day—grab them when they do, and have faith in your abilities.”

What sets this expedition apart is that Lt Cdr Roopa and Lt Cdr Dilna will be the first Indian women to circumnavigate the globe in dual-handed mode. This feat requires not just skill but deep trust between the two sailors, as they will be responsible for navigating their vessel, managing equipment, and facing the unpredictable ocean together.

“There are definitely mixed emotions—excitement, fear, and anticipation,” Lt Cdr Roopa admits. “But we’ve been preparing for this moment for three years. The sea is calling, and we’re ready.”