In a remarkable achievement, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, aboard the Indian Navy’s sailing vessel INSV Tarini, successfully navigated the treacherous waters of Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America on Saturday. This marks a significant milestone in their journey as part of the third leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition, according to an Indian Navy statement.
The passage through the Drake Passage, named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake who confirmed the existence of a sea route south of South America, is notorious for its extreme winds, towering waves, and unpredictable weather. The statement described this accomplishment as a “significant achievement” due to the challenging conditions of the region.
With this success, the two officers have earned the prestigious title of “Cape Horners,” a title traditionally reserved for elite seafarers who have successfully navigated Cape Horn under sail. Situated just over 800 kilometers (432 nautical miles) from Antarctica, Cape Horn is one of the closest land points to the icy continent, and crossing it requires unparalleled navigational skill and resilience to the harsh conditions of the Southern Ocean.
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is a testament to India’s commitment to scientific exploration and international collaboration. As the expedition progresses, the officers will continue toward their next destination, furthering the mission’s objectives.
The journey was flagged off last year by Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, from the Ocean Sailing Node, INS Mandovi, Goa. This historic voyage, which involves two women naval officers, Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa, will cover four continents, three oceans, and three challenging capes over the course of 240 days, spanning 23,400 nautical miles. The expedition marks a major milestone in maritime history while also showcasing India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
