Bayou Boeuf Lock

Comment by: Anita Robinson on May 7, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

Reached the lock at 10:30 am on 5/7/24 to find it closed for repairs. Was told by the lock master it would open at 12:00. At 12:30 they reported the completion time for repairs is now unknown. Might call ahead to check status.

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Comment by: Robert Rice on Jun 17, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

This is first time in a 1,000 mile trip where I locked through with barges. Two tug boats, with short barge strings went in first and tied up to the wall. The Lock directed me to just float in the chamber behind the second barge. Rather than literally float in the middle, I drifted over to one side with fenders against the wall. This was a very short rise in the lock, maybe 18 inches. <br /> <br /> I'd read that recreational boats should check in with Berwick Vessel Traffic Service. I emailed them, and asked what they wanted from recreational vessels. I was travelling westward from Houma toward Morgan City, these were the instructions from the VTS supervisor. <br /> <br /> Good morning Sir, <br /> You are not required to check in, but upon departing Bayou Boeuf Locks it is helpful and does improve situational awareness for VTS participants. <br /> <br /> VTS Berwick Bay working channel is VHF-FM channel 11. You can also call the watch center at 985-380-5370.<br /> <br /> I followed this advice and called "Berwick Traffic" on exiting the lock. This was useful for all concerned, as VTS was paying attention to me, and politely got me to move when I was waiting in a bad spot for a barge to clear a bridge.

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Comment by: Sam Crouse, Here's To Us, on Feb 19, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 4.5'

February 13, 2022. Sam of WhatYachtToDo on a training and delivery journey. Sea Ray 480MY with a 4-ft draft. Lock closure and talking to lock operator they had issues and did not think they would open due to equipment problems. We bypassed this lock by going SW through the Bayou Chene then up the Atchafalaya River into Morgan City. Added about 12 miles to the day, but a peaceful ride and we knew we could get to the dock.

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Comment by: Tim M on Jan 12, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 35'
Draft: 4.5'

Went through eastbound early morning 7 Dec 19. Lockmaster was helpful and put us straight through.

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