Dear Members,
The St Lawrence Seaway has issued the attached notice regarding the scheduled opening of the 2026 navigation season, as well as target closing dates thereafter.
The opening of the 2026 navigation season remains scheduled for March 22, 2026 at 08:00 AM (D.S.T.) for both the Montreal / Lake Ontario and the Welland Canal sections. Ship transits will be subject to weather and ice conditions, and restrictions may apply in some areas until lighted navigation aids have been installed.
The target closing dates for the 2026 navigation season are as follows:
- Montreal / Lake Ontario Section: January 5, 2027.
- Welland Canal: January 10, 2027.
Opening of the Sault Ste. Marie Locks (U.S.A.) is currently scheduled for March 25, 2026. Please note the Notice to Navigation Interests released by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for further information.
We invite members to review the full notice for further details regarding maximum allowable drafts.
Best regards,
Nathan Phillips
Operations Analyst