Technical data

Water depths

Water depths on the Trent-Severn Waterway are not guaranteed so boaters must know their vessel dimensions and actual draught before planning a trip.

Operators should also be aware that the draught of their vessel, when fully loaded and under power, in varied weather conditions and in fresh (vs. salt) water, may differ considerably from its advertised draught.

Parks Canada is not liable for any damage caused by deadheads (partially submerged logs/tree trunks) or other floating debris in the channel. However, staff do make every effort to remove obstacles once they become aware of them.

Under normal conditions, there is approximately 2.4m (8') of water in the navigation channel from Lock #1 in Trenton to Lock #19 in Peterborough.

Water depth in the navigation channel from above Lock #19 to Lock #45 in Port Severn, approximates 1.8m (6').

Please note, however, that in a few places between Lock #19 and Lock #45, navigation channel water depth may be less than 1.8 m (6').

The operator of any vessel drawing 1.5m (5') or more, who is considering navigating the waterway, should call 705-750-4900.

Water depth in a secondary navigation channel from Sturgeon Lake to Port Perry aproximates 1.22m (4').

Water depth in the Murray Canal, under normal conditions, is 2.7m (9').

Bridges

Bridge Clearance

When boating along the Trent–Severn Waterway (Trenton to Port Severn), the minimum overhead fixed bridge clearance is 6.1 m (20’).

Big Chute Marine Railway

The maximum size of vessel which can be transported on the carriage is as follows:

Vessel weight 90 tonnes (99.0 tons)

Length 30.3 m (100')

Beam 7.3 m (24')

Operators whose vessels weigh more than 68 t (75 tons), or have a peculiar hull configuration, or who foresee problems in lifting the hull by sling, should contact Trent–Severn Waterway Headquarters in Peterborough at 705-750-4900.