Length & No of Locks
84km from Belleek to Belturbet with 1 lock. The lock at Portora is normally open during the cruising season, except when water levels are low. The lock is operated by Rivers Agency on behalf of ESB, who control the water levels on Lough Erne. If you require passage through the lock when it is closed, please contact Rivers Agency on +44 (0)28 6638 8529.
Length of the Lock at Portora
Length: 36m
Beam: 6m
Draft: 1.2m
Air draft: 4.2m
Draft dimensions are given as a guide only and cannot be guaranteed.
Navigation Rules:
1. Marker Types
Navigation Markers - Always keep to marked channels, pass on White side. Red sides identify areas of shallow water or underwater obstructions.
Middle Ground Markers - Keep a good distance away from these and pass on either side. Where two middle markers are close together, do not go between them.
Hazard Markers - DO NOT PASS either side. Shallow water or rocks on each side.
White Pillars - These are based on shore and act as a point of reference for navigating only.
Black Pillars - These serve to highlight hazards to navigation, such as dangerous rocks. They are usually topped with a Hazard Marker.
Air Draft Markers - Be aware of air draft restrictions, for example when travelling under bridges.
2. Approach all bridges with extreme caution. Ensure that there is sifficient height clearance for your craft to pass safely underneath.
3. Speed Limit is 5 knots. Go even more slowly when approaching bridges, passing other craft, anglers, swimmers & moorings and when going in and out of locks.
4. Keep your wake to a minimum when in speed restricted areas and passing moored craft.
5. Keep a good distance from all Marker posts, points of islands and shorelines on lakes and rivers.
6. Keep to your right when meeting other craft. Keep well clear when overtaking other craft. Give way to sail, to craft moving downstream under bridges and to craft approaching from your right. Craft travelling downstream have right of way at bridges and in narrow channels.
7. Be aware that currents and winds can push slow moving craft off course. Check markers behind and ahead of you to ensure that your craft is maintaining course.
8. Only cross large lakes during settled weather. Check weather forecast before setting out on a journey, particularly when planning to cross lakes and other exposed waters.
9. It is recommended that everyone wears a lifejacket, especially when on board an open craft, or while on the deck of a decked craft.
10. Ensure that the mooring ropes do not trail in the water as they may foul the propeller.
11. The master of any craft should not operate the craft whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
