The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel INSV Kaundinya will be ceremonially flagged into Mumbai Harbour on 02 March 2026. The event marks the successful completion of her maiden overseas voyage to Oman and her return passage across the Arabian Sea. The voyage marks India’s maritime heritage, traditional shipbuilding skills and long-standing India–Oman ties.
Historic Maritime Revival
INSV Kaundinya is a traditionally constructed stitched ship. It was built using ancient Indian techniques, with wooden planks hand-stitched using coir rope and sealed with natural resins. The vessel reflects a revival of India’s centuries-old maritime craftsmanship and the preservation of Indic knowledge systems.
Voyage To Oman
The vessel sailed from Porbandar on 29 December 2025 for Muscat, retracing ancient sea routes used by Indian mariners. It reached Port Sultan Qaboos on 14 January 2026 and received a ceremonial welcome. During its stay, the ship was opened to visitors and became a symbol of cultural diplomacy.
India-Oman Maritime Linkages
The voyage underlined the deep civilisational links between India and Oman across the Indian Ocean. These ties are rooted in centuries of trade in spices, textiles and frankincense. The expedition also reaffirmed shared seafaring traditions and maritime connectivity between the two sides.
Significance For Indian Navy
INSV Kaundinya was conceptualised from a 5th century CE depiction in the Ajanta Caves and constructed under Indian Navy supervision with traditional artisans. Named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, the vessel symbolises ancient Indian oceanic navigation. Its successful voyage shows the Indian Navy’s role as both a security force and a custodian of maritime heritage.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026