Grand maritime reception for Indian Naval sailing vessel Neelkanth

Chennai: Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Neelkanth was accorded a grand maritime reception at Sri Vijaya Puram on Tuesday on completion of a challenging 700 nautical mile ocean passage from Visakhapatnam.

The voyage, which commenced on 27 September 2026, was undertaken as part of the celebrations marking 25 years of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India's first and only Joint Services Operational Command, an official release from PIB Defence Wing here said.

The expedition reflects the core ethos of ANC - "Jointness, Synergy and Sentinel of the Eastern Seaboard" - and highlights the enduring importance of professional seamanship, endurance and maritime skills in the challenging operational environment of the Indian Ocean region.


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Sailing remains a demanding form of seamanship, requiring courage, endurance, situational awareness and a deep respect for the sea.

The expedition of Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Neelkanth reaffirms the Indian Navy's commitment to harnessing the spirit of adventure to enhance professional seamanship and maritime skills.

The arrival of INSV Neelkanth off flag point was marked by a ceremonial 'Flag In' at sea, led by Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), who embarked on a J-24 sail boat for the occasion.

He led a formation comprising three Laser class and five Optimist class sail boats, along with multiple powered craft of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, showcasing jointmanship at sea.

Adding to the maritime spectacle, six Indian Navy ships and two Indian Coast Guard ships - formed a ceremonial honour corridor to escort INSV Neelkanth into harbour.

The event culminated with Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty formally flagging-in INSV Neelkanth at Marina Bay in Sri Vijaya Puram.

He thereafter embarked on the vessel and commended the crew for their exceptional navigation, grit and spirit of yachting during the 700 nautical miles passage.

The voyage carried the message of ANC's Silver Jubilee - "Together We Sail, Together We Conquer", the release added.