INS Sudarshini arrives in Alexandria during Lokayan 26 expedition

The Indian Navy’s Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini reached Alexandria, Egypt, on September 23 as part of its Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition. This marks the ship’s second visit to the port during its deployment.

The 10-month mission started on January 20 from Kochi and is planned to cover 22,000 nautical miles across 18 ports in 13 countries. The ship has already visited multiple locations, including the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Mediterranean, and Suez Canal.

During the voyage, trainees have received training in long-range ocean navigation and traditional seamanship. The Mediterranean leg of the journey provided additional hands-on experience in open-sea maneuvering and sail handling.

Upon arrival in Alexandria, the ship was welcomed by Rear Admiral Mohamed Abdel Aziz, Commander of the Alexandria Naval Base, and representatives of the Indian Embassy. The port call includes courtesy calls, cross-deck visits, and professional exchanges with the Egyptian Navy.

Since departing Kochi, the three-masted barque has traveled through the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, and Mediterranean, and completed a transit of the Suez Canal. It also participated in the Escale à Sète maritime festival in France and made its first Atlantic crossing, arriving in Antigua on May 27 after a 19-day passage from Cape Verde.

The ship crossed the 10,000-nautical-mile milestone during the journey and later visited the Azores and Portugal, arriving in Lisbon on August 22, which marked its 15th port visit in seven months.