Entering locks

[luckyjimbo]

I have a persistent problem entering locks, and I keep damaging my boat. I have tried dropping my speed down from 30 knts to 25 knts but still keep hitting the gate, can anyone offer me any advice.
Regards
James

 

[hlb]

The speed seems fine. Have you thought of engaging reverse, once inside the lock. Also ensure that there are a few other boats in the lock, to act as buffers and slow your progress more effectivly.

Haydn

 

[billskip]

Fit auto air bag on sharp end (if still sharp) dont purchase from marine outlet,wait by side of motoway and get one you see demonstrated....alternatly a little more practice with the handbrake

Bill
www.aegeansailing.co.uk

www.macsyachting.com

 

[ToMo]

If yer brakes aint holdin too well, chuck out the drag hook - that usually does it!

 

[Geoffs]

Get a narrowboat. Designed for hitting lock gates, and automatically speed limited to 5 knots, if you're lucky!

 

[martinwoolwich]

Try timing it so that by the time you arrive the lock gates are open

 

[billskip]

Both ends?? Now your being silly

Bill
www.aegeansailing.co.uk

www.macsyachting.com

 

[Deleted User YDKXO]

My advice would be to enter at a higher speed, maybe 40 or 50 knots, in which case the larger bow wave generated should carry you clean over the lock gate. Alternatively, you could modify your boat to ice breaking standard and then the lock gate shouldnt be of concern

 

[DanTribe]

What about one of those buffers that they have at the ends of railway tracks, to fit on your bow?

 

[luckyjimbo]

I think the best idea so far is the train buffers, but they are very expensive and I need to save some money for my medication, anyway Ive got to go now the men in the white coats are coming, Hello, Hello.....

 

[Col]

I think the problem is slowing down too soon. My planing hull is harder to steer at displacement speed, try it at 40 knts and see if that improves things.
Failing that, get the famous Barry of MV2 fame to come out with you for the day.

 

[BarryD]

Well your aproach sounds fine however I prefer to come up to a lock at a sedate 6 kts and then when the lights go green apply WOT - you should get on the plane as you enter the first doors.

If you do this often enough you will find that your marina waive the requirement for your boat to got to sea at least twice a year. And you will never have to share a lock with anyone.

Also worht noting that the damage to the boat can often be off-set by selling tickets. KevB made enough out of me to buy a brand new Sessa 35.

Barry D.