After leaving Bordeaux, we’re once again out at sea—currently transiting the English Channel, en route to Rouen, another charming French port on Balmoral’s itinerary.
As always, the English Channel is as busy as ever. Fortunately, it operates under a Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS), a system much like a highway at sea: one lane for northeast-bound vessels and another for those heading southwest. It doesn’t really matter how congested the channel gets—as long as everyone follows the rules, things run smoothly. So for us navigators, transiting the English Channel isn’t particularly difficult. Just stick to the rules and you’re good.
During my watch, I reported to Jobourg Traffic, the vessel traffic service (VTS) responsible for monitoring and guiding ships in this area—kind of like air traffic control, but for the sea. All vessels entering the VTS zone are required to check in, and Jobourg Traffic helps ensure safe and orderly passage through these busy waters.
Yes, the person on the other end of the radio is French. I used to struggle with understanding English spoken with a French accent, but over the years, I’ve gotten the hang of it. Still, I’ve always wanted to learn French—unfortunately, my tongue doesn’t seem to agree. It twists itself into knots!
Weather-wise, the English Channel is treating us well today. It’s calm, clear, and just about perfect—every sailor’s dream. But let me tell you, this stretch of water can be as moody as your grandma on a bad day!
We’re scheduled to pick up our pilot at 10 a.m., after which we’ll begin a scenic 75-kilometer river transit to the port of Rouen. It’s one of those passages where you wish your camera battery wouldn’t die.
Until the next post—time for some well-earned sleep. Bedz time!
Sailing the English Channel en route to Rouen, we navigate busy waters with ease, guided by Jobourg Traffic
Seafarer and Family Man
I'm Dexter— a seafarer by profession, a traveler by passion, and a homebody by choice.
