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We’re your port!
The Erie Canal was the internet of its day, connecting products, people, and ideas from around the world. You can stay connected with WiFi provided by the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Service Area: Waterford Harbor Visitor Center
At the confluence of the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers, Waterford serves as the eastern gateway to the NYS Canal System. The Waterford Harbor Visitor Center will help you get oriented.
Tips for Locking Through
Among the unique experiences of traveling the Erie Canalway is locking through. There are 57 locks in the canal system. A few simple preparations and the right equipment will make for smooth sailing through the locks. Keep your boat under control at all times in the lock.
What to have on hand:- Aluminum pole or boat hook for pushing off the sides of the lock
- Work gloves for handling the lines
- Long boat lines to help control the boat in the lock (e.g., a 20-foot boat needs 30 feet of line)
- Boat fenders large enough and numerous enough to protect the boat from the steep stone walls of the lock. Some boaters prefer to use lock boards, or padding devices and this works well also. Be sure to set up both port and starboard sides of your vessel—even if you prefer to lock through on a certain side, you may not have a choice due to weather or mechanical circumstances.
Note: Do not use grain bags filled with hay as a temporary, or “throw away” fender. These are not reliable, tend to fall apart, litter the waterway, and end up in the actual lock, causing mechanical breakdowns and delays in travel.
As you approach:- Communicate with the Lock Operator using marine radio (Channel 13) or a cell phone to alert the lock tender of your approach.
- Wait for the green light for permission to enter the lock.
- Follow directions of the Lock Operator.
See also: NYS Canal Corporation for boating information and instructions for Locking Through.
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