A Splendid Day at Sea with HMS Portland - Saturday 25 July 2026

Five Scriveners, led by the Master, Andrew Fenemore-Jones, recently enjoyed a memorable visit to our affiliate ship, HMS Portland, for a fascinating day at sea. Following a warm welcome in the Wardroom from our affiliate liaison officer, Lieutenant Commander Abby Smale, we watched two tugs skillfully manoeuvre the ship from dock before sailing from Plymouth, escorted by Royal Navy patrol craft keeping local sailing boats safely clear. Commander Daffyd Bryden then hosted us in his cabin for breakfast rolls and coffee and again for lunch with some of his senior crew.

The day provided a unique insight into life aboard a modern Royal Navy frigate. We toured the bridge and operations room, observed an impressive fire-fighting exercise, and received an informative briefing from the Gunnery Officer on the ship's sophisticated weapons systems. Our visit concluded with a transfer back to shore by sea boat as the crew prepared for a busy weekend of helicopter landing exercises.

The Company is most grateful to Commander Bryden and Lieutenant Commander Smale for their hard work, meticulous planning and generous hospitality to make this outstanding visit possible. Their efforts ensured a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.

Our sincere thanks also go to the officers and crew of HMS Portland for their warm welcome and for generously sharing their time, knowledge and professionalism with us.