 Luttrell did not have to wait long for this, he had been appointed commander by 20 October 1780, when he was given command of the 18-gun sloop for service in the Downs.His service at this rank did not last long, as he was advanced to post-captain on 23 February and on 28 February 1781 was appointed to command the 50-gun .Luttrell took "Portland" out to Newfoundland in May that year and was active against French and American privateers and warships.