The St. Lucie Lock and Dam is located a little more
than 15 miles upriver from the “crossroads” at the St. Lucie Inlet, the
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and the St. Lucie River. Approximately 10,000
vessels transit this lock every year and the majority of them are recreational
vessels. The Locks are operated from 7 AM to 7 PM, seven days a week. It takes
about 20 minutes on average for boats to lock through completely. Signs
indicate the arrival point on both sides and the Lockmaster is contacted on VHF
Channel 13. He will give instructions to wait for the green light before
entering and the Captain can choose the side of the lock on which to tie. Lines
are dropped from the lock walls to secure the boat at the bow and stern as the
water levels are raised or lowered. The Lockmaster announces when it’s safe to
proceed after the lock gates are opened.
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