Locking
Lights Sequence
Red Lights
Vessels shall not proceed. Vessels inbound to the lock should heave to or give way to outbound vessels
Green Lights
Vessels may proceed.
Flashing orange light
Indicates Free Flow is operating.
Flashing red light
On seaward side to indicate less than 1m in channel
General Locking Requirements
- Rig fenders on both sides of your vessel
- Enter the lock on the Green Light and go as far forward as possible or as directed by our lock keeper
- An aft line then a forward line will be passed to you
- Switch off your engine(s)
- Take a half turn around your cleat to control your vessel in the lock. DO NOT TIE OFF
- Exit the lock when given instructions from our lock keeper
- Skippers without VHF radio should contact our lock keeper by mobile phone on 01243 512 731 or by mooring on the inner waiting pontoon. For safety reasons it is strongly recommended that skippers call using VHF.
Inbound
- There is no requirement to call our lock keeper inbound. Join the queue and monitor VHF channel 80 at all times
- Please do not overtake in the approach fairway and keep a reasonable distance from the vessel in front
- Do not hang back in the approach fairway, use the outer waiting pontoon. During peak times a member of staff will assist you with your ropes
Visitors - please moor on the outer pontoon as far forward as possible and proceed to marina reception for your berthing details.
Outbound
- When you wish to leave call Chichester Marina on VHF channel 80 for instructions
- During peak times you may be given a locking out number. Stay on your berth until called.
- When the lock is available you will be asked to slip your berth and proceed to the main fairway immediately
- The lock keeper will ask you for a Return Date
FREE FLOW
As the flooding tide reaches the marina basin level both sets of lock gates are opened. This is known as Free Flow. During Neap tides and at the top of extreme Spring High Tides Free Flow may not operate. Normal locking procedure then applies.
- An orange flashing light located at the lock indicates Free Flow is operating
- Red and Green traffic lights control access through the lock
- During Free Flow there is no need to call our lock keeper. You may enter on the Green Light
- Please allow the vessel in front of you clear the lock
- FOR SAFETY REASONS IT IS FORBIDDEN TO STOP IN THE LOCK DURING FREE FLOW
