First-Time Locking: What to Expect & How to Prepare
If you’ve never taken your boat through a lock before, the idea can feel a little intimidating. Big walls, swirling water, and lots of “what ifs.” But once you know what to expect, locking becomes just another part of the adventure.
Here’s a walkthrough of what a typical lock experience looks like, along with practical tips to help you feel more confident the first time through.
Before You Arrive: Know the Plan
As you approach a lock, the first step is to call the lockmaster on the VHF radio. The channel is typically listed in your digital charts (like Navionics) and also posted on a sign outside the lock chamber itself. If you’re not sure what channel to use, don’t be afraid to listen for traffic or ask another boater.
When you hail the lockmaster, let them know your direction of travel. They’ll respond with instructions—usually which side of the lock to tie up on (port or starboard) and your position in line if there are multiple boats waiting. Sometimes they’ll let you know they’re moving a commercial vessel or other traffic through first, so be ready to wait.
Get Your Gear Ready
Once you know which side of the lock you’ll be on, get your fenders out—and make them count. Lock walls can be rough, jagged, and slimy. We like using big round fenders (“ball fenders”) because they offer solid protection and don’t pop up out of the way as easily.
Your dock lines should be ready too. Ours are about 30 feet long and worked well in every lock situation we encountered. You don’t tie off completely in a lock—you’ll need to manage the line as the water level changes.
If you’re transiting in rain or heavy spray, have your foul-weather gear handy. And life jackets are a must, especially for kids.
Understanding Lock Types: Lines, Loops & Bollards
Not all locks operate the same way. Here are the three main setups you might encounter:
Drop Down Line: Some locks have lines hanging down from the top of the lock wall and have a loose bottom end. These are usually wet and slimy, but manageable. Loop this line loosely over your cleat, but don’t lock it off—you need to be able to pay it out or take it in as the water moves.
Vertical Cable: Other locks have lines or cables secured at both top and bottom, creating a vertical cable guide. You loop your dock line around the stationary cable and back to your cleat. As the lock fills or drains, your line rides along.
Floating Bollards: These are large metal posts built into the wall that rise or fall with the water. You tie your line to the bollard, which moves along with your boat. Convenient—until it sticks. If your line gets caught and tension builds, you could end up suspended above the water. Not good.
In any lock, keep a knife nearby (I clip mine to my lifejacket or pocket) in case you need to cut a line quickly in an emergency. And never let go of your line unless a lockmaster or safety issue requires it.
Turbulence & Boat Handling
As the lock fills or empties, water enters or exits through sluices at the bottom. The boats closest to the lock doors usually feel the most turbulence, especially in older or faster-filling locks.
If your boat drifts, resist the urge to overcorrect. Steady line management and calm communication go a long way. If you have crew members managing lines fore and aft, it helps keep your boat from spinning or bumping the wall.
We’ve found it’s smart to assign roles ahead of time—and make sure everyone knows what to do if something goes wrong.
Locking With Kids Onboard
Locking was one of the most memorable parts of the Loop for our kids—and one of the biggest learning opportunities.
We gave each of our kids a boat hook and a spot—bow and stern. With one adult on the midship line and the other at the helm, the kids were coached on how to gently nudge us away from the wall if needed.
Even though we had a bow thruster, we liked involving the kids. It gave them ownership, confidence, and something productive to focus on.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Locking might seem daunting the first time, but it becomes second nature with practice. The key is clear communication, calm execution, and good preparation. And remember: you’re not alone. Most lockmasters are kind and helpful, and so are the boaters around you.
We’d Love to Hear From You!
Do you remember your first time locking through? What surprised you, or what advice would you give a new Looper heading into their first lock?
Drop a comment below and share your experience—we’d love to hear your stories.
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