Amsterdam Oranjesluizen complex closed due to high water level Markermeer
Press release by Rijkswaterstaat
The Oranjesluizen complex near Amsterdam has been closed since 19:00 on Wednesday evening due to the water level in the Markermeer. As a result, the Noorder, Midden and Zuidersluis and the Prins Willem Alexandersluis are expected to be out of operation until Wednesday 10 January, 19:00.
High water level
The passage of ships through the Orange locks has not been possible since Wednesday evening (3 January) because the water level at the lock complex is now higher than +0.30 NAP. As a result, the lock gates cannot be opened.
Waiting vessels
This blockage of the Oranjesluizen only affects shipping, especially commercial inland shipping. Skippers will be informed via the current shipping notice and via vaarweginformatie.nl. This afternoon (Friday 5 January) at 16:00, a total of 60 inland vessels were waiting at the Oranjesluizen.
Detour via the IJssel
Professional skippers berthed on the west (Amsterdam) side of the lock can divert via the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal and the Lower Rhine or the Waal towards Arnhem and then via the IJssel to Kampen. Boaters on the east side of the lock (Buiten-IJ) can follow this route in the opposite direction. This route is suitable for vessels up to 110 metres and no wider than 11.45 metres. Due to the high water level, the limited clearance at the railway bridge in Deventer must be taken into account.
Diversion route via Zaan and Noordhollandsch Kanaal, Nieuwe Diep, Kornwerderzand
Option for ships shorter than 85 metres is the Zaandam-Den Helder-Kornwerderzand shipping route via the Noordhollandsch Kanaal. Shipping on this route should take into account the limited headway at the Coen Bridge.
For operational questions, our Harbour Master Division can be reached 24/7 via +31 (0)20 5234600.