Having done the historical / touristy description of the Strepy boat lift it was time for us to go up and over! We set off on a fine morning, once the tourist boat was out of our way, and approached the lift. Basically its like going into any lock – same process applies – radio ahead, await response and instructions and the green light before going in. Then moor up and enjoy the ride and the views!
Although the lift only takes about 8 minutes to go up it takes a little longer for the water to fully equalise before the gates can be opened at the other end and you can go out onto the higher level canal.
The final part of the whole engineering feat is the protection gate about a kilometer along the canal which is presumably not often closed off.
We enjoy waving at all and sundry, but particularly at kids, along the way.
Piedaleau 