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/-72.5014666667,40.8886,12/500x250?access_token=pk.eyJ1Ijoid2F0ZXJ3YXlndWlkZSIsImEiOiJGRmM1RDdzIn0.Wya5yV5QEqbz0-fct8zyIA)
Shinnecock Lock and Dam
- Lat / Lon: N 40° 53.316' / W 072° 30.088'
- Number of Chambers: One
- Size: 41 x 250
- Tie Off: Fixed Bollards
- VHF Channel: 13
- Phone: 631-852-8299
- Schedule:
A 250-foot-long and 41-foot-wide lock, with 12 feet over the sills, is located about midway through the canal. The tide running southward opens the Shinnecock Lock and Dam and parallel 27-foot tidal gates. Southbound boats usually use the tidal gates; however, larger boats are put through the lock whenever possible. Traffic lights control passage through the lock.
The locks are operated 24 hours a day and the operator controls all movement of boats through the lock by light signals. Communicate with the operator on VHF Channel 13 or by calling 631-852-8299. When approaching the lock, boaters should stop at a safe distance and follow specified signals. Boaters should give three short blasts on the horn or whistle. Lock operators will reply with lights in the following manner:
• Green: Lock is ready, craft may advance.
• Red: Craft must wait.
• No Light: Craft must wait or tie up to approach wall.
• Six flashes of red or green: Craft must remain stopped and await further instructions.
It is important to note that when the gates are open and the locks are not in use, you can pilot right through the canal. The current normally flows to the south when the gates are open (at up to 6 knots). When the gates are closed, you can still lock through. The current is relatively tame within 1 hour of the gate opening or closing. At other times, it can be wooly.
(Alert)! Avoid going south with the current when it is raging. It will be a fast ride through the narrow passage. Going north in these conditions also requires slow speed and no wake to maintain control. Northbound boats without strong engines can have a hard time and should negotiate the canal at slack water. When traveling in either direction, watch for the eddies on the south side by the bridge.
