Soo locks - MacArthur

[Jammer]

We will be transiting the Soo locks upbound in early June as part of our delivery home. I anticipate that we will be staying at the nearby George Kemp marina overnight and getting underway by sunrise, i.e., around 5:00 a.m., so as to make the most of the daylight.


The Canadian locks are usually recommended for recreational vessels but do not open until 11:00. I'm thinking that we'll be better off asking to lock through the MacArthur lock as it is open 24 hours. We've been through locks on the Mississippi which are substantially the same size and know the drill.


The best information I can find indicates that this is possible and is not a big deal.



Any recent experiences or advice?

[LakeSuperior]

It is possible and is no big deal. Did it about 30 years ago in my yawl. Used the Canadian lock about 13 years ago. It is quaint experience.

[IRENE]

It is possible. My wife and I went through there on our inflatable, and
again on a 16’ Boston Whaler with our wedding party. Just call the lockmaster by phone, explain your situation, and ask for passage. There are times they get busy, and you may have to wait. They will work you in.

[Bobby Lex]

I believe that the youtube channel "What Yacht to Do" did a video about transiting the Soo Locks into Lake Superior about a year ago (episode #162 or #163). That might be useful to you.

Bob