"To sustain a long voyage of over 150 days at sea, solo, non-stop, unassisted and sailing through some of the most treacherous oceans of the world, is a remarkable feat. This rare achievement showcases the spirit of determination, resolve and courage of both the individual and the organisation he represents," said Mr Pranab Mukherjee, the President of India.
He was addressing a function after welcoming Lt Cdr Abhilash Tomy whose boat INSV Mhadei reached the Gateway of India after commencing its historic journey from the same spot on 01 November 2012. He said solo circum-navigation, apart from being a physically arduous task, also requires very high standards of knowledge of navigation meteorology and boat maintenance.
"I am sure that this achievement of Lt Cdr Abhilash Tomy will continue to be a source of inspiration for future generations of young seafarers. His epic voyage has placed our nation into the ranks of a few select countries whose citizens have been successful in braving such an arduous voyage," the President said.
Responding to the welcome, Lt Cdr Abhilash Tomy said, "It is fulfilment of a 14-year old dream and four years of hard work. This difficult voyage was made possible by efforts of lots of people."
So far, less than 80 people in the world have successfully completed such a voyage.
INSV Mhadei was custom-built for the Indian Navy, on the banks of her namesake river in Goa in 2009 and this was her second solo circumnavigation trip within a span of four years. The Indian Navy plans to train a lady officer for a solo circumnavigation which may be launched in 2015.
