Stornoway, Scotland
We sailed 594 nautical miles from Falmouth to Stornoway. I’m currently on board Balmoral as one of the navigating officers, working the 12–4 watch, both in the afternoon and early morning hours. Although I wasn’t on the bridge when we arrived at 0700H, I still had the chance to enjoy the peaceful view from the berth once we were securely docked at the Deep Water Terminal.
We arrived to perfect weather—clear blue skies, calm seas, and great visibility. Just ahead of the ship was a quiet island with rolling green hills. Tiumpan Head Lighthouse stood on the far side, still active after more than a century of guiding ships since it was first lit in 1900. Next to it were several white buildings, likely the former lighthouse keepers’ cottages. A bright red buoy floated near the entrance to the harbor, marking the safe passage into port. It’s always nice to see these familiar signs of safety and structure after a long passage.
Lighthouses don’t go running all over an island looking for boats to save; they just stand there shining.
— Anne Lamott
During our transit from Falmouth, vessel traffic was light. In the Saint George’s Channel and up to the TSS (Traffic Separation Scheme) in the North Channel, we only came across a few fishing boats and a couple of cargo ships. Conditions were generally calm, and we had a smooth run. It gave us time on watch to focus on navigation and monitor systems without too much outside interference.
Even though I wasn’t part of the arrival team on the bridge, I felt proud knowing I had helped bring the ship through most of the passage safely. That quiet moment after arrival, standing outside and taking in the calm sea and the lighthouse on the horizon, reminded me of why I love this job. It’s not always easy, but it’s moments like this that make it all worth it.
Seafarer and Family Man
I'm Dexter— a seafarer by profession, a traveler by passion, and a homebody by choice.
