If you’ve always known it as KHM, here’s the short version: KHM Harbour Control is now Portsmouth VTS. The change took effect on 1 May 2025, and the callsign on VHF Channel 11 is now “Portsmouth VTS”.
For Northshore Boat Club members, that is worth keeping in mind, especially if you are heading further into the Solent towards Portsmouth or Gunwharf.
What Has Changed?
Not much in practical terms, but the name has.
KHM Harbour Control was officially renamed Portsmouth Vessel Traffic Services, or Portsmouth VTS. So if you are making a call on Channel 11, that is now the name to use.
What Stays The Same?
The service itself has not changed.
The official notice makes clear that there are no changes to the authority, responsibility or service provided, and that Portsmouth VTS remains accountable to the King’s Harbour Master. It also says they will still respond to “KHM” for the time being while the change filters through older habits, charts and documentation.
So if you still think of it as KHM, you are not alone. But on the radio, Portsmouth VTS is now the right call.
Why This Matters From Northshore
Northshore is based in Itchenor, in Chichester Harbour, but plenty of members head further into the Solent too.
So if you are making a run towards Portsmouth, especially if you are heading to Gunwharf, it is worth knowing that KHM is now Portsmouth VTS on Channel 11. Gunwharf Quays Marina still advises small vessels to contact KHM on Channel 11 for permission to cross from Ballast Pile to the marina, which is exactly why this update is useful to have in the back of your mind.
Why Did The Name Change?
The rename was made to align Portsmouth with standard VTS naming guidance.
In simple terms, it is about clearer and more consistent terminology, rather than changing how the service actually works.
The Short Version
- KHM Harbour Control is now Portsmouth VTS
- The change took effect on 1 May 2025
- The callsign on VHF Channel 11 is now “Portsmouth VTS”
- They will still respond to “KHM” for now
- The service itself has not changed
