richmond 1/2 lock - depth of water

[simonparry]

I'm after advice from someone who has done the trip before, and can clarify if there is enough water for me to do the trip at this time....
details are
Travelling on Friday 25th March from Thames Ditton to Chelsea Harbour Marina (need to be here between 1315 and 1515 for the gates to be open - HW chelsea at 1415).
Therefore i make it i'd need to leave richmond at 1300, just as they open the sluices.
Being that this is not long after LW at richmond (1124, 0.0m) is this a good idea - or should I try and leave richmond a little later (HW richmond 1458).
Many Thanks...

 

[paulrossall]

You might get a response on the motor boat forum as some of them are on the thames.

 

[miket]

Done this trip many times.
If sluice is open then no problem with depth.
I reckon earliest departure for boat with 1 metre depth is no more than 3/4 hr before sluices open.
Usually reckon on 2 hours from Ricmond to St Kat's, leaving when sluices 1st open so Chelsea should be no problem. If you time your arrival at Chelsea at HW you will make the job of entering much easier. If after tide has changed be aware that the current is strong and the lock is angled and relatively narrow. Unless very confident, ensure well fendered!!

 

[dick_james]

Well I draw 3'9" and have left Richmond through lock 1.5 hrs before sluices opened and just about made it (dull it wasn't) but entirely agree, leaving Richmond when sluices open to Chelsea should be fine.

 

[ZuidWester]

Pretty journey past Kew

Hi Simon and welcome to the forum,
I hope your trip was successful. Say hi to the Thames for me.