Navigating by Night: Powerboating in Portsmouth

We recently headed to Portsmouth, England, for an advanced powerboat course — a chance to sharpen our skills in a very different environment from what we’re used to. As experienced boaters, most of our time is spent in the polar regions, where 24-hour daylight often means we rarely navigate in the dark. So, training in the busy, light-studded waters of Portsmouth was both a challenge and a thrill.

Navigating at night through one of the UK’s busiest harbours required a sharp eye and steady concentration. Red and green buoys, sector lights, leading lines, and bearings became our guides, while ferries, naval vessels, and local traffic kept us on constant alert. Every decision mattered, and every light had meaning.

The experience pushed us to rely more on instinct, instruments, and teamwork. It reminded us that even with years of polar boating behind us, there’s always more to learn. Whether in the Arctic or along England’s historic coast, the sea demands respect, precision, and continuous improvement.

We left Portsmouth with better night navigation skills and a renewed appreciation for the complexity of seamanship. It was a humbling and rewarding reminder that the learning never stops.