Netherlands: Refurbishment of the Krammersluizen – disruption set to last for months

The works form part of the comprehensive refurbishment of the Krammersluizen complex in the south-west of the Netherlands. Among other things, Rijkswaterstaat is having the lock gates, chambers, technical installations, pumping station, buildings and waterways refurbished. For sailors and motorboat enthusiasts, the complex is an important crossing point between the Volkerak-Zoommeer inland waterway area and the Oosterschelde.

A yacht lock will be out of service until May

The northern chamber of the yacht lock, Jachtensluis 2, will be closed round the clock from 7.00 am on Monday 14 September 2026 until 5.00 pm on Sunday 9 May 2027. During this period, only the southern chamber, Jachtensluis 1, will generally be available for recreational boating.

However, this chamber will also have to be closed for construction work according to a specific schedule, meaning that significant delays in passage are likely. Rijkswaterstaat therefore strongly advises recreational boaters to use alternative routes during these periods. Crews should plan according to precise times, particularly for weekend trips and boat transfers.

Timetable for full closures affecting recreational craft

For sailors with a standing mast, there is a further restriction. Whilst the northern lock for commercial shipping, Duwvaartsluis 2, is closed, the standing-mast route via the Krammersluizen is impassable. The following periods are affected:

Rijkswaterstaat points out that the plans are subject to change. Before setting sail, skippers should therefore check the latest updates at Rijkswaterstaat on the refurbishment of the Krammersluizen and the official Waterway information check.

How do you plan your sailing trips when key locks and the ‘Staande-Mastroute’ are both subject to restrictions: by opting for longer legs, choosing alternative sailing areas, or deliberately allowing for more time?