Nord Kanaal Ijmuiden to Amsterdam

[AliM]

The Ijmuiden one is easy - it's large and rarely crowded. I don't think we've even used the VHF - just look at the lights on the sport one - the southern-most one from memory. Red - wait, red and green - get ready, green - go in, two reds - it's closed for some reason (then you may need to use the VHF to find out what's going on, or better, ask someone else). There is a long quay to moor up to on the inland side on the south side. You may even be able to stay overnight there. Just beware of strong winds which get channeled through the lock, even when you think they are going to be beam-on.

On the sea side, I don't remember anywhere to moor up - we've just loitered when we've had to wait. If you are staying overnight then there is the big marina. Ch 70(?) on entry, they always tell you to go to pontoon M and look for a green slot - go a long way along M, (otherwise you have a long walk to the loos!). It's a good place for R&R after a North Sea crossing, and there is a good chandler in teh town to pick up charts and all the things you forgot.

Oranjesluizen is a much more competitive affair. Don't hesitate - no one else does, and any hesitation loses you your place.

 

[Tradewinds]

The Ijmuiden one is easy - it's large and rarely crowded. I don't think we've even used the VHF - just look at the lights on the sport one - the southern-most one from memory. Red - wait, red and green - get ready, green - go in, two reds - it's closed for some reason (then you may need to use the VHF to find out what's going on, or better, ask someone else). There is a long quay to moor up to on the inland side on the south side. You may even be able to stay overnight there. Just beware of strong winds which get channeled through the lock, even when you think they are going to be beam-on.

On the sea side, I don't remember anywhere to moor up - we've just loitered when we've had to wait.

Agreed - IJmuiden lock is very civilised - a good first lock.

As I said earlier, there is actually a section with mooring points immediately before the Kleine (Sport) lock on the right hand side. We've gone alongside there a few times & tied up temporarily - it's just a waiting point. Sod's Law says you get the lines over the mooring bollards & the red & green light comes on! I find hanging about in front of the lock can be a bit tiresome especially if you've got a following wind & there are a few boats behind you.

 

[Fr J Hackett]

Once again thanks to all, you have taken a deal of angst out of my first Dutch lock experience. If it does not go well and to plan I know where you all "live" and I will be round there with a big stick

Thanks

Pete

 

[Vamoose]

Went through last Saturday.. Follow the SPORT signs & tune into the VHF channel as indicated on the boards.. No Problems

 

[ditchcrawler]

You probably know this but if there are boats tied up waiting for the lock it is good manners to let them go in first.As said by others you then tie up next to them or in the middle of the row and get out first.Many of the dutch boats use a centre spring only and can pivot about so keep an eye open and use extra fenders.I also use a length of large dia rope slung down each side of the boat for going into the boxes.They have a habit of giving you berths where the distance between the posts is the same as your beam.If asked your beam add a bit.

 

[davidfox]

If I recall correctly, there is a big board with 'SPORT' written on it, indicating the correct lock.

Im pretty sure there is, it is obvious when you get there and dead straight forward.