The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Kaundinya has commenced its maiden overseas voyage from Porbandar, Gujarat, to Muscat, Oman. The indigenously built traditional stitched sailing vessel was flagged off today by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, in the presence of the Ambassador of Oman to India and senior officials of the Navy.

 

The Ministry of Defence, in a statement, said that this historic expedition marks a major milestone in India’s efforts to revive, understand, and celebrate its ancient maritime heritage through a living ocean voyage.

 

The vessel has been constructed using traditional stitched shipbuilding techniques, employing natural materials and methods that date back several centuries. Inspired by historical sources and iconographic evidence, INS Kaundinya represents India’s rich legacy of indigenous shipbuilding, seamanship, and oceanic navigation.

 

The voyage retraces ancient maritime routes that once connected the western coast of India with Oman, facilitating trade, cultural exchange and sustained civilisational interactions across the Indian Ocean.

 

The Ministry said that the expedition is expected to further strengthen India-Oman relations by reinforcing shared maritime heritage and people-to-people ties. It said that the arrival of INSV Kaundinya in Muscat will serve as a symbol of the enduring friendship and mutual trust between the two nations, while also highlighting the deep historical links between Gujarat and Oman.

 

Through this expedition, the Indian Navy underscores its commitment to maritime diplomacy, heritage preservation and regional cooperation. The voyage is being led by Commander Vikas Sheoran, with Commander Y Hemant Kumar serving as Officer-in-Charge, supported by a crew of four officers and thirteen sailors.