Cdr Abhilash Tomy, KC, NM, is a retired Indian Navy officer, naval aviator and yachtsman. He is one of the two sons born to Lieutenant commander V. C. Tomy, a former Naval Officer, and Valsamma. Cdr Abhilash Tomy was born in Chethipuzha Hospital, Changanacherry in Kerala. After completing his schooling, he joined the Naval Academy in Goa, from where he was commissioned into the navy in the year 2000. He completed his flying training in 2002, qualifying as a maritime reconnaissance pilot on the Dornier 228.
Cdr Abhilash Tomy became the first Indian to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the world under sail. He also competed in the 2018 Golden Globe Race. In January 2021, he retired from military service to concentrate on the 2022 Golden Globe Race. He finished second in the race, becoming the only Asian skipper to win a podium finish in a round the world race. Prior to his solo circumnavigation of the globe (which was called Sagar Parikrama 2), he had represented India in several international events including the 2011 Cape Town to Rio Race, Enterprise World Championships, Asian Sailing Championship etc.
Cdr Abhilash Tomywas decorated with the Kirti Chakra, for valour and courageous action away from battle, and the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award, both in 2013, and received on his return at the Gateway of India by the President of India who welcomed him ashore ‘on behalf of 1.2 billion Indians’. He now aims at giving ocean sailing experience to as many people as possible, especially the youth, so that they can grow up and be responsible and independent citizens. He has lectured at over 100 schools, colleges, corporates since his return, speaking to over 50,000 people, and has been featured in print, digital and broadcast media. His fan base among has crossed 10 million!.
Cdr Abhilash Tomy has spoken at the prestigious Tedx Gateway, and published a best selling pictorial book about his Voyage 151, that was presented to and carried a message from the President of India – Pranab Kumar Mukherjee. A Malayalam version of this book was released by the Governor of Maharashtra and sold 20,000 copies, while a Bengali version is now under way.
A special National Anthem featuring his record breaking hoist of the national flag at Cape Horn on Republic Day was played in 3,000 cinemas and 455 TV channels all over the country during Independence Week in 2013, and he was featured in Chivas Gentleman’s Code on Star World, and several other radio and Tv programs. His four minute film, All Yours, was telecast for six months by Ten Sports during India cricket matches.
