RIBBLE LINK - NEWS ON MAXIMUM DRAFT.

Using a combination of technical information from our BWB survey team and anecdotal information from my staff and the many boaters who have travelled the link we will be setting the draft at 2'9”. The level was set using many criteria, however the main restricting factor has been the seasonal siltation that we remove at the start of each year. In theory it may well be possible to get a craft with a deeper draft through the link in April but I would have significant concerns about its ability to return by July; or even earlier if we have very heavy rainfall in spring.

Click above for more Info.

Photos of before and during construction of the Ribble Link.

Booking Details for Ribble Link
All passages must be booked in advance and it is recommended that you book early to avoid disappointment. Operation of the link is dictated by the tide and weather during daylight hours. From Easter to mid-October, check current operating times in the British Waterways user guide leaflet. From November to Easter, passage is by request only. The link will be manned during operating hours. British Waterways staff operate the staircase flight locks 1-2 and sea lock 9; all other locks 4 - 8 to be operated by customers. The link will only operate one way each day. You will be notified of the directions at the time of your booking. It is recommended that you arrive at your departure point four hours before high tide. (Enquiries: 0303 040 4040)
The Millennium Ribble Link will be closed to passage through the winter.

For more details call Canal and River Trust on 0303 040 4040 or email
enquiries.northwest@canalrivertrust.org.uk

Booking and Travel Information 2013.

Preston Marina Guide.Pdf

Ribble Link Application Form 2013.Doc

Boaters Hand Book.Pdf.

Ribble Link Map.Pdf

Ribble Link Skippers Guide.Pdf

Ribble Link Passage Times.xls

Preston Tide tables
make sure you pick the right day.

Northern Reaches of The Lancaster Canal Questionnaire.Pdf

Ribble Link Charges.Doc

	Extreme caution must be taken when Cruising down the River Ribble from the Dock and the Ribble Link , on your left side (port side) approx 3.5 miles down River, the Perch has broken off and the Stump lies in waiting for a unexpected Boat. stay away from your lefthand side (portside) and you should be alright. When sailing to the Dock and the Ribble Link stay away from your righthand side (starboard) have a safe journey.
	Blackpool rd Bridge before construction of the Ribble Link.

The Ribble Link-Rufford Branch route is tidal
Boats should carry as a minimum; anchor/chain/warp/VHF radio or mobile
phone/lifejackets/fire fighting equipment/coastal flares. Check your boat insurance covers tidal waters.
For help whilst navigating the River Ribble, please contact
Preston Riverway Control on
VHF Channel 16 or telephone 01772 726871.
A chargeable pilot service for the Ribble can be obtained
from 01772 632439.

Rufford Branch Locks
Length 62ft 18.90m
Beam 14ft 3in 4.34m
Headroom 8ft 2.44m

Ribble Link Locks
Length 72ft (21.9m). Beam 14ft.3 (4.27m).
Headroom 7ft 8in (2.3m). Draught 4ft (1.2m).
but a tight turn restricts passage to long narrowboats or short
broad-beam boats - long, broad-beam boats may not be able to pass.
Owners of broad-beam boats should contact the waterway office
for more details.
Anything up to 10ft is the recommended maximum beam, due
to restrictions at the Sewer Pipe crossing. All lengths can be lowered
if required, though this would be dependent on inspection by
the operational staff.