Ortona Lock

Comment by: Ann Fitzpatrick, Annie Time, on Dec 27, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 33'
Draft: 2.5'

We had a very good experience today going through the Ortona lock with our 27 Ranger Tug going eastbound. Lock tender was very friendly and gave good instruction. We stayed in the middle of the lock on the right (starboard) side. Most of the turbulence, which wasn't that much, seemed to occur on the left side.

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Comment by: Janet Simpson on Mar 18, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.5'

The lock tender essentially threw us in line and said nothing, and quickly opened the waters into the lock. We were not prepared for the severity the strong turbulence as the lock quickly filled with water from front gates. It would have been nice to have been warned and to have some help offered. I met another boater afterwards who had the same experience on the same day. She almost fell off her sailboat from the turbulence.

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Comment by: Ed Tillett on Jan 24, 2020
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 60'
Draft: 5.0'

The lock tenders are polite and helpful. Be advised that they stick to their schedules. If you need an extra 5 minutes you might get it, but beyond that they are punctual. If you are unsure of the water flow or how much your vessel might react to the water, ask the lock tenders for advice. You MUST wear life jackets if you are tending lines on your vessel. The lines are clean and the walls are not slimy or dirty. You will want at least two fenders. Three is best. Watch for manatees.

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