Schleuse Dorsten

Schleuse Dorsten is a double-lock system on the Wesel-Datteln Canal with two chambers of different sizes. The larger chamber spans approximately 225 meters, while the smaller one measures about 110 meters, and together they manage vessel traffic along this waterway.

The facility opened in 1931 with its first chamber to serve the newly built canal and its growing vessel traffic. A second chamber was added in 1968 to meet increasing demand as more ships began using the waterway.

The lock complex integrates with regional cycling routes, connecting industrial heritage sites and recreational paths across the Ruhr region of North Rhine-Westphalia.

You can watch the lock operate from surrounding pathways, particularly when vessels are passing through. The best time to observe is during daytime hours when boat traffic is active.

The facility has five powerful pumps capable of raising water by 10.5 meters. This pumping system maintains water levels across the entire canal network, allowing vessels of varying sizes to pass through without issue.

Location: Dorsten

GPS coordinates: 51.66250,7.00458

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:40