St Lucie lock closure for 3 months. Plan ahead.

[Havana Shamrock]

The lock will be closed starting Jan.2, 2022 thru March, 31,2022



This total closure of St Lucie Lock, the first total closure in 10 years, essentially closes Okeechobee Waterway for three months. Cruisers needing to go from coast to coast during this time will need to loop around the Keys, adding days to a float plan.


Erica

9/15/2021



Notice to Navigation 2021-021 Okeechobee Waterway – St. Lucie Lock Extended Closure for Maintenance
USACE

 

[tc410]

Adding days and LOTS of $$$ in fuel!

 

[FootballFan]

Time of the year is a factor if you are transiting.

I believe every Florida boater should transit the Okeechobee at least once or twice... That said it is now my last choice, so much prefer the Keys.

This time of year though, easy to get stuck in the Keys waiting for the wind to die down. Not a bad place to get stuck if you found a slip.

 

[Havana Shamrock]

I agree I prefer the keys route but for people just transiting and our delivery Capt friends this is a big inconvenience. I always felt anxiety trying to make the crossing and all the locks. We got stuck once crossing and had to tie to a public dock with no power etc. argh.