IJmuiden sea locks, Maritime canal locks in Velsen, Netherlands
The IJmuiden locks connect the North Sea Canal to Amsterdam's port, allowing large seagoing vessels to reach inland waterways. Multiple lock chambers lift and lower ships to overcome the height difference between the sea and the harbor.
Construction of the locks began in the late 1800s to create a direct sea route from Amsterdam to the North Sea. This project transformed the port into a major international trading hub.
The locks reflect how Dutch people have learned to live with water and control it for trade. You can watch ships pass through and see workers managing the water levels as part of daily port operations.
Public viewing platforms offer free views of the locks where you can watch ships passing through. It is best to visit in the morning or early afternoon when the most vessel traffic occurs.
One lock chamber rises about 9 meters above sea level and functions as a storm surge barrier at the same time. This dual-purpose design is rarely seen in Europe and serves both navigation and flood protection.
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