What is the maximum allowable draft for a vessel navigating the Saint Lawrence Seaway Locks?

The maximum allowable draft for a vessel navigating the Saint Lawrence Seaway Locks is indeed 26 feet. The Saint Lawrence Seaway is a system of canals and locks that facilitates navigation from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. The locks are designed to accommodate vessels of specific dimensions, and one of the critical limits is the draft, which is the vertical distance between the waterline and the bottom of the hull (keel) of a ship.

The limitation of 26 feet for the draft is set to ensure safe passage through the locks, as deeper drafts could result in grounding or collisions due to the constricted nature of the waterways and the varying depths in different sections of the Seaway. This draft limitation is an important consideration for ship operators when planning voyages to and from the Great Lakes. Larger drafts could lead to difficulties in navigation and increased risks, which is why it is strictly regulated.

Understanding this maximum draft is essential for maritime navigation, ensuring vessels can safely transit through the Seaway while adhering to the structural limitations of the locks.