Our Concerns

Whilst chugging along the dutch canals last June, we found ourselves waiting with a group of small pleasure craft, outside a lock. We were singled out and told to turn around and go back. Why us?

What, did we overlook some important paperwork? Was there a VHF radio transmission that we missed? Was our Aussie flag offensive??

 It was actually the size of our boat. Further upstream unplanned bridge work was happening. So back we had to go, as far back as necessary to initiate a new route.

Route planning is a precise and vital to any canal journey. The draft of the boat, above and beneath the waterline and the width of the hull determine what course you can ultimately take. And unlike an extensive road map, there are already limited choices when it comes to plotting a destination. The height and configuration of bridges further limit these.

Floods

Right now, Prague is experiencing flooding. Whilst this doesn't directly affect us now, we don't know the long range impact. In general, rises in water levels alter clearances under bridges. It only takes ONE pinch point to send you back.

Flood damage to canal banks and planned or unplanned work on locks and bridges all have the potential to be problematic and force back tracking. Heavy rain in France during May have already caused closures.



Greg is currently on a mission to find and translate the international waterway bulletins to establish if there are any impasses that will affect our route.

 

The locks

Without ANY disruption, a lock takes a minimum of 15 minutes to negotiate. Based on our route, that equates to 5 days' worth of lock procedures.
This time of year represents "high" tourist season.

Long waits in queues, waiting for oncoming boats to take their turn, or just waiting for the lock to open up again after it's scheduled break, could contribute to a potential blowout in time.


Missing our return flight is not an option. If it looks likely, Plan B comes into effect.
Fingers crossed!!




A long wait for public transport in Holland