Christchurch (New Zealand), Nov 21 Mhadei, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel, with Commander Dilip Dhonde at the helm entered Lyttelton Port of Christchurch on Saturday after covering about 9000 Nautical miles of his voyage.

A large crowd from the local populace, including the Indian community was present to receive him. He had set out of port Fremantle on November 1.

He will now set sail to Falkland Islands on December 6, after tending to the various maintenance requirements of the boat.

Commander Dhonde had embarked on the first Indian attempt at solo circumnavigation of the world on August 19.

This feat is often compared to conquering of Everest yet ironically is one that requires greater mettle and much longer time. It is also an exercise that tests the human limits of endurance and tenacity and is challenge like no other.

The perils of the capricious sea and the vagaries of the unpredictable weather in a lonely sailboat become the canvas where this Herculean challenge to the human spirit unravels.

Less than 300 people in the world have succeeded in it till date, with this being the first 'Indian' attempt.

'Mhadei', during her voyage of over 21600 Nms (38,880 kilometers) under sail will take on the exceptional winds and swell which are prevalent especially below 60 degree South latitude called the 'Roaring 40s', 'Fearsome 50s' and 'Screaming 60s'.

Mhadei will sail for approx nine months and is stopping at only four Ports -Fremantle (Australia), Christchurch (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands) and Cape Town (South Africa) before returning to Mumbai. (ANI)