Oceanic histories have become increasingly popular in the last few decades, as maritime‐based approaches to historical inquiry, often referred to as a “new thalassology,” gain prominence. Indian Ocean studies in particular have flourished as a result of this trend. However, the study of Indian Ocean navigation has not received the same level of academic attention. This paper briefly reviews the historical and historiographical development of Indian Ocean navigation and argues that although significant work—based largely on Arabic manuscripts sources—was conducted in the twentieth century, the field has become somewhat stagnant. It concludes with recommendations for future research that could further enhance our understanding of Indian Ocean navigation and enrich the broader field of Indian Ocean studies.