Lock Passage on the Canals

Passing through the locks is one of the highlights of a boating holiday on Göta Kanal. The canal's historic lock systems are an essential part of the journey and a unique experience that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Before departure, you will receive an introduction to the boat, navigation and lock procedures. Throughout the canal, lock keepers are available to assist and guide boats through the locks when needed.

How lock passage works:

Before entering a lock

When approaching a lock, wait at a nearby jetty if the lock is not open. In most cases, the lock staff will inform you when it is time to enter and where to position your boat inside the lock.

Before entering:

1. Prepare fenders and mooring lines on the correct side of the boat.
2. Wait for instructions from the lock staff.
3. Ask the lock staff if you are unsure where to place the boat or how to proceed.

If several boats are waiting, you may be asked to moor temporarily until it is your turn to enter the lock

Entering the lock

When instructed, enter the lock and position the boat where directed by the lock staff.

For upward lock passage:

1. At least one person should go ashore to handle the stern line.
2. The stern line is secured to a ring and kept short and vertical.
3. The bow line is placed through or around a ring so it can be kept tight during the lock passage.

When instructed, enter the lock and position the boat where directed by the lock staff.

For downward lock passage:

1. At least one person should go ashore.
2. The lines should be passed through the rings beside the boat’s attachment points.
   

During the lock operation

During upward lock passage, the water creates currents that push the boat forward.

1. The stern line should not be loosened.
2. The bow line should be kept tight.
3. The bow line should be adjusted slowly and evenly while the water level rises.

During downward lock passage, the water level drops and the lines are gradually released.

1. The line should not be tied both to the quay and the boat.
2. If tied in both places, the boat could hang from the line as the water level falls.

During lock passage:

1. The engine should be switched off.
2. Smoking should be avoided.
3. Exhaust fumes and petrol vapours can remain inside the lock.

Leaving the lock

When the lock passage is complete, the lines are released and the journey continues.In double locks or lock staircases, the person ashore can move the lines forward to the next lock chamber as the boat moves on.