Boatfolk Bars to launch The Lightship at Haslar Marina

Called The Lightship, the concept will feature two distinct dining areas: the mid deck, which will offer a high-end dining experience led by head chef Jamie Fegan; and the top deck, which will feature a more casual sharing plates menu.

It comes after the boat, which was in service from the 1940s until the 1990s, was removed from the water towards the end of last year and extensively refurbished

The mid deck will hold around 100 covers in total and serve dishes including crab ravioli with lobster bisque and samphire; turbot fillet with velouté sauce, tempura rock oyster, pickled radish, asparagus and pea; and pig cheek accompanied by chicory, apple, potato terrine, pea puree and a cider jus.

Meanwhile, the top deck will have space for 80 covers and serve a menu of seafood platters and cocktails.

Overlooking The Solent and the historic Portsmouth Harbour, The Lightship’s interiors have been overseen by Tanya Lippuner of Isle of Wight based designers Vivus, and will combine elements of art deco and mid-century design with vintage nautical trinkets as a nod to the ship’s history.

Boatfolk Bars will also be operating a small range of luxury hotel rooms close to The Lightship for guests looking for overnight stays in the area.

The group, which specialises in dining destinations located in UK marinas, currently operates three other restaurants: The Creek, also at Haslar Marina in Portsmouth; The Deck at Penarth Marina in Cardiff; and The Kitchen at Portland Marina in Dorset.

The Lightship is one of two openings planned by Boatfolk Bars this month. The second, called SALT, will launch at Portland Marina and feature a seasonal all-day menu.