Intracoastal Waterway Chartbook, Locks Intracoastal Waterway Navigation Kettlewell Publishing Weather Itinerary Daily Runs Communications Bridges Locks Dismal Swamp Depths Aids to Nav. There is one lock in Great Bridge, Virginia, on the main route, and there are two locks on the Dismal Swamp Canal. Check Appendix A for the lock schedules and call them on VHF channel 13 or 16 for an opening. If there is no response, try two long and two short blasts of a horn. If there is still no response, tie up to the bulkhead before the lock and call again a bit later.
Chances are the lock tender is off doing something or is between lock houses.
The lock tenders also open the bridges nearby. There are places to tie up on either side of the lock while waiting. South of the lock and bridge is a free public dock for temporary stays of a few hours. Several stores and restaurants are within walking distance. A popular marina with protected dockage is also south of the lock and bridge.