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Canals/Boating

Boating Hours

Check the boating hours for NYS Canals and plan your journey accordingly. Stay informed about seasonal operating times to ensure smooth navigation.

2026 Navigation Season

Conditions permitting, all portions of the New York State Canal system are scheduled to open Friday, May 15, 2026, for the annual navigation season – marking the 202nd consecutive year of travel along New York’s Canals. 

There are no tolls or fees for recreational use of the Canal system this year.

 

Operating Hours

The system will remain open for both recreational and commercial vessels through Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Standard hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, with extended hours at select locations through the peak navigation season, May 16 through Sept.10.

Extended 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. hours will be in effect at the following locks and lift bridges:

  • Lock E-8 (Rotterdam)
  • Lock E-23 (Brewerton)
  • Lock O-1, O-2, O-3, O-8 (Phoenix to Oswego)
  • Lock E-24 (Baldwinsville)
  • Main Street Lift Bridge (Fairport)
  • Lock E-32, E-33 (Pittsford and Henrietta)
  • Lift bridges in Spencerport, Adams Basin, Brockport, Holley, Hulberton, Albion, Eagle Harbor, Knowlesville, Medina, Middleport, Gasport, and Lockport
  • Lock E-34/35 (Lockport)
  • Exchange Street Lift Bridge (Lockport)
  • Lock CS-1, CS-2/3, CS-4 (Cayuga to Waterloo)

Special Information at Specific Locks

Vessels will be admitted through structures if arriving prior to scheduled closing times. Mariners are advised to plan accordingly, especially when traveling through paired lock structures or the Waterford Flight, where arrival by 5 p.m. is recommended for full transit.

Operating hours may vary at some locations as the Canal Corporation continues seasonal staffing efforts. Mariners are encouraged to consult the latest Notices to Mariners for updates throughout the season.