Various lock gates are being replaced so at times sea to sea transits are not possible. At the same time Sea lock 2 (the one with the crane) is out of use to mast work will have to be done at a harbour further down the Firth (Port Edgar has a crane but will charge)

I reviewed these notes in May 2021. There is a lot of work being done on this Canal but it is mainly on the sides. They hope to reopen on the 28th May for transits which used to be be mainly weekend affairs. so you need to check on the dates available when you are planning your transit.

A short update on the sea lock at Bowling.
The crane is currently out of order due to an expired safety certificate. I am waiting to hear of when this will be resolved.
Secondly, you do not need to rig lines for the sea lock on approach, the lock keepers have their own lines, heavy gauge three-strand, made up to fit the lock at it's lowest useable level, and they rig them for you and drop them as you enter.

It is advisable to call the lock keeper on 0138 9877 969 on approach, and two days prior to your expected arrival. Reason being that the lock keeper is usually out working away from the office, so he will not hear the radio. However, the office phone re-directs to a mobile that they keep with them when they're out of the office.

Third thing is that currently the sea lock only operates on a bank holiday Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There are a couple of reasons for this, but primarily in an effort to save money. There is supposedly a restriction of 9am to 6pm on lock operations, however this is negotiable with the lock keeper as they are there till 8pm regardless.

The Canal is closed for most of the coming summer. We'll try to keep you updated.