Lock procedure at Chichester Marina

The Chichester Marina lock operates 24 hours a day and is controlled by Premier’s expert Lock Operatives. The lock is generally at its busiest on sunny, summer weekends and bank holidays and around high water. A red ‘reduced depth’ beacon is illuminated when one metre or less of water is above the outer cill of the lock gates.

Chichester008 NW Mixed Content Block 952X664

Approach when locking in

At Birdham Spit Pile, call the marina on VHF Channel 80 to advise your position and request lock entry. The Lock Operative will instruct you to ‘proceed to the lock on a green light’ or to join the queue. While holding position, or approaching, favour your starboard side to allow outbound traffic to pass. Please avoid overtaking and follow the procedure above.

Chichester 22 74 NW Mixed Content Block 952X664

Inside the lock

Our marina team will pass you a stern line and then a bow line. Take half a turn on one of your boat’s cleats and hold the end of the line ready to ease or tighten when the boat ascends/descends. Do not tie any lines off whilst in the lock. Once the outer gates are fully open, please proceed in turn or as advised out of the lock as quickly and safely as possible. 

Chichester Marina 2014 26 NW Mixed Content Block 952X664

Approach when locking out

Call Chichester Marina on VHF Channel 80 to request a lock out. The Lock Operative will either ask you to proceed directly to the lock or you will receive a queue number. Maintain a listening watch on Channel 80 and leave your berth when you hear your number called. Wait until the traffic lights turn green before entering the lock.

Chichester Marina 6 NW Mixed Content Block 952X664

Free flow

At certain times, usually around high water, free flow is in operation. To view predicted free flow times please see Chichester Marina tides. Free flow will be indicated by a flashing yellow beacon. Follow the radio and traffic light signal procedure outlined above. The Lock Operative will make an ‘all stations’ announcement at the beginning and end of free flow. The marina team will close the inner gates at times to allow pedestrians to cross the lock.

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Take control with MyPremier and the Premier App. Sign in to the app with your MyPremier account and access a range of unique features to help you when you're out and about. Inform your home marina of your departure and expected return, view the latest tides and weather information or report any maintenance.