INSV Mhadei to soon complete one lakh nautical miles

adventure, recreation and training purposes.

While a normal ship does about 30,000 nautical miles every year, it is rare for sail boats to reach the magic figure which is equal to going around the world five times.

Incidentally, the INSV Mhadei has twice done a world tour. Commander Dilip Donde earned his place in India's maritime history by becoming the first Indian to complete a solo circumnavigation under sail, in an Indian-built boat.

He sailed from Mumbai on August 19, 2009 and returned to Mumbai after four stops on May 19, 2010.

It was then used by Abhilash Tomy for his solo, unassisted, non-stop circumnavigation under sail.

Mhadei is an Indian-built yacht that was delivered to the Navy in February 2009 by Aquarius Fibreglass at Goa.

The 17.1 metre, 23 tonne boat built of wood core fibre glass has a 25 metre mast.

It has five sails - one each of mainsail, Genoa, Jib, two Gennakers and a Storm Jib.

Much of her equipment, including mast and rigging, sails among others have been sourced from Cape Town and have stood her in good stead during her circumnavigation.