New Delhi. Indian Navy sailing training ship INS Sudarshini reached Ponta Delgada in Portugal’s Azores on August 13 after completing a challenging 19-day trans-Atlantic voyage from Boston, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on August 14.
The voyage, undertaken as part of the ongoing Lokayan 2026 expedition, marked the ship’s second crossing of the Atlantic Ocean and demonstrated the endurance, seamanship and sailing skills of its crew.
The Portuguese Navy accorded a warm welcome to INS Sudarshini on its arrival. The port call is aimed at strengthening India-Portugal maritime ties and showcasing India’s longstanding maritime heritage.
During the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini called on Comodoro Luís Nicholson Lavrador, Commander of the Azores Maritime Zone. The ship’s crew is scheduled to participate in professional interactions and cultural exchanges, besides undertaking operational replenishment during the port call.
According to the Ministry statement, the visit would provide an opportunity to further deepen maritime cooperation and people-to-people ties between India and Portugal.
INS Sudarshini has covered more than 15,000 nautical miles during the ongoing voyage and continues to serve as a floating ambassador of India’s maritime heritage and goodwill, the statement added.
