New Delhi: Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A on Saturday scripted history by successfully crossing Cape Horn, located at the southern tip of South America while sailing on the third leg of Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition onboard INSV Tarini. The Indian Navy called it a “significant achievement”,
The passage takes the two sailors through the Drake Passage, which is named after the English explorer Sir Francis Drake, who confirmed the existence of an open sea route south of South America, the Indian Navy said in a statement.
“It is a treacherous waterway known for its extreme winds, towering waves and unpredictable weather,” it added. “Making their successful passage a significant achievement,” the statement read.
Here’s The Video Shared By The Indian Navy:
In persistent rains, Sea State 5, winds of 40kns (~75 kmph) and waves more than 5 metres, Lt Cdr Dilna K & Lt Cdr Roopa A, recorded their names in the annals of history by successfully crossing the #CapeHorn located at the southern tip of #SouthAmerica, while sailing on the third… pic.twitter.com/N1isyvHGMA
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) February 15, 2025
After crossing Cape Horn, the Indian Navy officers have earned themselves the esteemed title of being the “Cape Horners”. Notably, it is the designation traditionally given to the elite group of seafarers who have successfully navigated Cape Horn under sail.
Cape Horn is situated just over 800 kilometres (432 nautical miles) from Antarctica. It is one of the closest land points to the icy continent. Exceptional navigation skills and resilience to the tough conditions of the Southern Ocean are required to navigate through the region.
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is a continuation of India’s efforts to support scientific exploration and collaboration. The Indian Navy officers will now progress toward their next destination.
Last year, Chief of the Naval Staff of India, Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, flagged off INSV Tarini for Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition at Ocean Sailing Node, INS Mandovi, Goa, on Wednesday.
The historic voyage expedition will be covering four continents, through three Oceans and three challenging Capes in 240 days and travelling 23,400 nautical miles. After completion, Navika Sagar Parikrama II will become a significant milestone in maritime history and will be a major boost for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
(With inputs from ANI)
