How to Lock Through
From NY Canals - Guide to New York's Erie, Oswego, Champlain, and Cayuga-Seneca Canal System
Locking through can seem like a daunting task for the unknowing, but after a few locks, you will gain confidence, and it will become as easy as docking.
Being Prepared:
Before approaching a lock there are a few things that you should have ready. Each person on board should have a pair of gloves, as well as your boat should have fenders every 7-10 feet. Mooring lines are should also be readily available to help control the boat once inside the lock.
Approaching the Lock:
When approaching the lock, you should call ahead (Marine Radio Channel 13) to the lock master to let him or her know that you are approaching. Doing so may save time by allowing the lock master to have the lock open for you. If the lock is not ready for you, or you cannot contact the lock master via the radio, than look for the "Stop Here" sign along the break wall and temporarily tie up.
Once the lock is ready, the light will go from red to green. Only when it is green should you approach, even if the lock is open.
Entering the lock:
Enter the lock slowly, and pull all the way to the front of the lock so other boats can enter. Use both sides of the lock if necessary. Once inside, find the mooring lines and grab onto them firmly. The lock master will begin to fill/unfill the chamber shortly. Depending on the lock, there may be a lot of turbulence within the lock. Proper preparation will help you manage your craft efficiently.
Exiting the lock:
Once the lock has completely filled/unfilled the lock doors with open and you may exit. Exit slowly, waiting for the crafts ahead of you to exit first. Once through and away from the lock and mooring wall, you may regain channel speed and continue your cruise.
Caution: Navigating around certain locks can be dangerous due to increased currents and dams. Stay in the clearly marked channels, and never approach a dam from the upstream or downstream side. Also, say clear of locks during operation, they also produce increased currents while filling and unfilling
[edit] See Also
- Canal Related Equipment and Supplies
- Index of Locks
