Hand-Stitched INSV Kaundinya Completes Historic Voyage from Goa to Muscat
The wooden ship INSV Kaundinya made history by completing its unique voyage from India to Oman. This remarkable vessel, hand-stitched on Goa's Divar island using coir ropes, sailed into Muscat's Port Sultan Qaboos around noon. The arrival sparked celebrations at both the Indian Navy's Ocean Sailing Node and Hodi Innovations, the shipyard responsible for building the ship.
A Journey Powered by Wind and Tradition
Measuring 20 meters in length, INSV Kaundinya embarked from Porbandar in Gujarat on December 29. The ship relied entirely on wind and sails for propulsion throughout its journey. This expedition aimed to highlight the deep-rooted maritime, cultural, and civilizational connections between India and Oman, which stretch back over 5,000 years.
Prathamesh Dandekar, director of Hodi Innovations, expressed both excitement and relief. "This expedition served as validation for us at Hodi. We are excited, but it is also a big relief. I kept my fingers crossed every day," Dandekar said.
Building a Ship Without Blueprints
Hodi Innovations constructed the vessel with support from naval architects, archaeologists, traditional shipbuilding designers, and master shipwrights. Dandekar explained the unique challenges of this project. "The Kaundinya is different from what we usually do. With a regular vessel, we know what to expect, but with this, we did not know much. We did not know if it would make it. There was no design, no blueprint, no past experience. The team is really happy to see it complete the journey."
Navigating Historic Trade Routes
A 17-member crew, skippered by Commander Vikas Sheoran, navigated the Kaundinya along historic trade routes. They faced variable winds during the voyage. Their successful journey demonstrated India's ancient shipbuilding and maritime trade legacy.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal received the crew in Muscat. He emphasized the symbolic importance of the expedition. "This event is not only a celebration of a voyage, but of a deep-rooted civilizational bond. The arrival of this stitched ship in Muscat is symbolic of the enduring India-Oman friendship that stood the test of time and that is anchored in history, enriched by trade, and strengthened by mutual respect."
Commemorating Diplomatic Relations
The voyage holds special significance as both India and Oman commemorate 70 years of diplomatic relations. This expedition serves as a living tribute to their longstanding partnership.
Future Plans for INSV Kaundinya
According to naval officers, INSV Kaundinya will undergo necessary underwater checks in Muscat. After a few weeks, the vessel will sail back to Karwar in India. Officials estimate the return journey could take around 25 days. Some changes in the crew composition are expected for the return voyage.
This successful expedition not only celebrates historical ties but also showcases the resilience of traditional Indian shipbuilding techniques in the modern era.
