LifeFourPointZerovideo
Tips and Tricks for Transiting the Welland Canal in a Pleasure Boat | Ep. 8
7 September 2017 · 36 min · 10K views · Welland Canal
What this video covers
Transiting the Welland Canal requires coordination with the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority via VHF channel 14 and advance phone contact to secure a transit slot.0:59 Pleasure craft must pay a toll, which is cheaper when purchased online via the Seaway website than paying per lock.6:15 Downbound transits require a minimum of two crew members, while upbound transits mandate three; boaters lacking sufficient crew must hire an authorized line handler.10:02 Vessels must monitor channel 14, though individual locks often operate on specific secondary channels identified by blue signs at the lock entrance.8:27
Preparation includes stowing dinghies on deck, as towing is prohibited.18:35 Effective fendering is critical; use oversized round fenders and fender boards to protect the hull from lock walls.11:40 When lines are lowered by lock staff, running them through snatch blocks mounted on the toe rails allows for better tension control than using cleats or winches alone.17:45 Keep extra long dock lines ready for waiting at intermediate walls during commercial traffic delays.13:48
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