Going though boat locks with a houseboat

by Rodney and Pam
(Louisville, KY)

Well we have owned our houseboat a few seasons now and everyone wanted to going though the locks at McAlpine on the Ohio River, Louisville, KY.

I felt good going with a little experience and time behind the wheel, and a good feeling because the houseboat was reliable.

So I got the family & gang together kind of early to go to a fish restaurant down river. We got to the locks and waited about 1/2 hr or so before we were called into the lock by the lock-master. I did let him know by VHF radio that this was my first time and he said no not to worry.

So I drove into the large lock after everyone put on life vests and it was very large inside since my houseboat is only 12x42.

We tied to the floating rings with fenders out and the lock-master closed the gate. That's when the ride started as he let the water out of the locked area kind of slow at first, then picked up speed but not fast that it frighten anyone.

My mom was not even scared and she is not to crazy about the river. When we got to the lower level, the lock master open the gate, then gave the signal to pull out away from the locks.

So to make a long story short, the locks are kind of fun, just don't plan on getting though them fast, and listen to the lock master.

Now my brother is ready to take his houseboat and family though this season. I will be going along side him as well. Just make a good day trip out of it.

Thanks for reading and have a safe and fun boating season. Rodney & Pam.

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Reply - Answer

Well Rodney & Pam, welcome to the houseboat forums, and CONGRATULATIONS on doing your first "boat locks".

I know that the locks can be a terrifying thing for some people, and especially since it was your first time, you did just marvelous.

Like you said, you do want to plan some extra traveling time, as it does take a fair amount of time, especially during peak boating periods.


Lastly, hopefully some of our readers and visitors will share and post comments about their related houseboat lock & locking experiences and tips.

Feel free to use the "Click here to post comments." link found near the bottom of this page.

Thanks again for sharing, IAN from all-about-houseboats

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