- Youth on the High Seas: Gujarat NCC Launches a 12-Day Test of Grit, Skill and Seamanship
- 75 Cadets, 113 Nautical Miles, One Mission—Building Leaders through the Power of the Sea
- Adventure with Purpose: Coastal Security, Culture and Community at the Core
- From Deck to Shore: Seamanship Training Blended with Social Service and Sustainability
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, JAN 16
The NCC Directorate, Gujarat is all set to unfurl its sails for a prestigious 12-day NCC Sailing Expedition from Porbandar to Diu, scheduled to commence on January 17, 2026. Designed as a perfect blend of adventure, training and nation-building, the expedition will see the enthusiastic participation of 75 NCC cadets—45 Senior Division (SD) and 30 Senior Wing (SW)—drawn from nine Naval NCC Units across Gujarat.
The expedition will be led by Lieutenant Commander Himank Pathak, Commanding Officer of 4 Gujarat Naval Unit NCC, marking yet another significant milestone in maritime youth development and hands-on seamanship training under the NCC banner.
A Scenic Maritime Route Steeped in Heritage
Covering an impressive 113 nautical miles (210 kilometres), the sailing expedition will trace the spectacular Saurashtra coastal line, touching iconic coastal locations including Porbandar, Navibandar, Madhavpur, Mangrol, Veraval, Mul Dwarka and Diu. Renowned for their pristine beaches, historic ports and vibrant maritime traditions, these destinations offer cadets a rare opportunity to experience Gujarat’s western coastline from the deck of a sailing craft.
Fleet, Format and Safety First
The expedition fleet will comprise three 27-foot DK Whaler sailing boats, backed by two dedicated rescue craft. Sailing operations will be conducted strictly during daylight hours, ensuring maximum safety. Adopting a moving camp format, the expedition’s accommodation and logistical arrangements will shift daily in tandem with each halt point along the route.
Rigorous Training Beyond the Horizon
While adventure lies at the heart of the expedition, its core strength is training. Cadets will undergo comprehensive theoretical and practical instruction in seamanship, including safety protocols, capsize drills, emergency response procedures and coastal navigation. Special emphasis will also be placed on personal safety, weapon handling and situational awareness, ensuring well-rounded exposure to naval discipline and preparedness.
Objectives Anchored in Leadership and Nation Building
The expedition is guided by nine strategic objectives, foremost among them being the inculcation of discipline, leadership, teamwork and the spirit of adventure. It also seeks to enhance coastal security awareness, promote the Naval NCC brand among academic institutions and opinion makers, and expose cadets to Gujarat’s rich cultural and historical legacy, including landmarks such as the Somnath Temple and bustling fishing harbours.
Theme of Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
Under the central theme “Protecting Rivers and Water Bodies for Our Common Future,” the expedition integrates environmental consciousness with maritime excellence. Cadets will actively engage with local communities, reinforcing the message of conservation and sustainable living.
Service to Society Along the Shoreline
At every halt point, the expedition will roll out social service initiatives, including tree plantation drives, coastal clean-up campaigns, Swachh Bharat awareness rallies, water conservation and sanitation programmes, and nukkad natak highlighting social issues such as girl child welfare and the importance of voting. Cadets will also interact with naval personnel, culminating in a cultural programme on the final day at Diu.
A Landmark Voyage of Learning and Leadership
Supervised by a dedicated team of two officers and 20 PI staff, this sailing expedition stands as a shining example of experiential learning, character building and community outreach. It underscores the Indian Navy’s and NCC’s commitment to nurturing resilient, skilled and socially responsible young leaders—an essential force for national development and coastal security awareness.
