Ahhhh....The Erie Canal. The first leg was back to Tonnawanda. Sure seems familiar. Now it's time to start! The first part of the canal is actually an existing river. A little wider and natural banks. The creek splits off shortly and the dug part begins. The first set of locks is at Lockport. There are two locks together. You are lowered in the first, then the door opens and you go into the second. A word on "locking thru". You call ahead and the lockmaster gives you directions..like "will open shortly". After the gate opens a green light comes on, meaning proceed. Once in the lock, 338 feet long by 45 ft wide, you loop bow and stern lines around ropes or cables thet are attached top and bottom. You hold onto your lines and as the boat lowers, your lines slide down. Fenders are very important. This is very easy and nothing happens fast. When the water reaches the lower level, the doors open, you slide the docklines out, and you are on your way. So far, three locks down, 31 to go.
There are many lift bridges on the west section of the canal. Again communication is important.
The lockmasters and bridge tenders are very friendly and helpfull. They ask how far you are going and call ahead to let the next bridge/lock expect you. This can be very nice as some bridge tenders cover two bridges. That means they drive to the other bridge, so you may have to wait. Nice walls to tie on. Also they may call you to check your progress so they can be ready. Totally different than what we are used to.
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