Although the repairs to the Donnerschleuse lock at kilometre 20.7 have been completed, additional routine work during operation is now on the agenda. The same applies to the neighbouring Berkenthin lock at kilometre 13.3.
Other work, but only in the morning and evening
However, only morning and evening time slots are required for the closure, during which operations are suspended: from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. respectively, from 2 to 5 June 2025. The corresponding notice for inland navigation (NfB) from the Elbe-Lübeck Canal Waterways and Shipping Authority (Wasserstraßen- und Schifffahrtsamt Elbe you can find here.
The further short-term closures are necessary, even though the connection between Lauenburg on the Elbe and the Untertrave in Lübeck had only just been reopened. Previously, the waterway through Schleswig-Holstein had been closed for almost eight months.
This was because surprisingly extensive damage to the chamber floor was discovered at the Donner lock, one of seven barrages along the 67 kilometres of the ELK. Comprehensive renovation work followed, the completion of which was then delayed. drawn out further and further had. The Elbe-Lübeck Canal remained closed.
Elbe-Lübeck Canal as an alternative to the NOK
According to the Chamber of Commerce in Lübeck, the failure of the canal led to economic losses running into millions for a number of industries in the region. In the meantime, transport had to be carried out by lorry. Recreational shipping was also affected during the start of the season.
With a clearance height of 4.60 metres and a water depth of two metres, the Elbe-Lübeck Canal (ELK) between Lauenburg and Lübeck Although it is not an option for yachts with a large draught and standing mast, it offers a convenient alternative to the Kiel Canal when the mast is lowered.
Christian Tiedt
Editor Travel
