Wednesday 31 / December / 2025
Muscat: The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya, the Indian Navy’s indigenously built stitched ship, embarked on its maiden overseas voyage from Porbandar in Gujarat to Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, on Monday—reviving a maritime tradition that dates back more than 1,500 years.
Unlike modern naval ships, INSV Kaundinya has no engine, no metal nails and no modern propulsion system. The vessel relies entirely on wind and sails and has been constructed using the ancient stitched-ship technique, in which wooden planks are sewn together with coir (coconut fibre) ropes. Natural resin, cotton and oils have been used to seal the hull, making it seaworthy.
The historic expedition marks a major milestone in India’s efforts to revive and celebrate its ancient maritime heritage through a living ocean voyage.
The journey from Porbandar to Muscat is expected to take around 15 days, subject to weather conditions. The vessel was formally flagged off by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, in the presence of Issa Saleh Al Shibani, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to India, along with senior Indian Navy officials and distinguished guests.
Inspired by historical sources and iconographic evidence, INSV Kaundinya reflects India’s rich legacy of indigenous shipbuilding, seamanship and oceanic navigation.
The voyage retraces ancient maritime routes that once connected India’s western coast with Oman, facilitating trade, cultural exchange and sustained civilisational interactions across the Indian Ocean.
The expedition is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations between India and Oman by reinforcing shared maritime heritage and deepening cultural and people-to-people ties. The vessel’s arrival in Muscat will stand as a symbol of the enduring bonds of friendship, trust and mutual respect between the two maritime nations.
The voyage also highlights the long-standing historical links between Gujarat and Oman, underscoring a legacy of cooperation that continues to this day. Through the expedition, the Indian Navy reiterates its commitment to maritime diplomacy, heritage preservation and regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. The crew comprises four officers and thirteen sailors.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed delight as INSV Kaundinya began its maiden voyage. Highlighting the ship’s unique construction, he congratulated the Indian Navy, designers, artisans and shipbuilders for bringing the ancient stitched-ship technique back to life.
“Wonderful to see that INSV Kaundinya is embarking on her maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat, Oman. Built using the ancient Indian stitched-ship technique, this ship highlights India’s rich maritime traditions,” the Prime Minister wrote on X, wishing the crew a safe and memorable journey.
