Victoria Lock

Victoria Lock, also called Meelick Lock, lifts boats about 2.4 m from the Lough Derg level onto the long reach that runs all the way up to Athlone. The Shannon Commissioners built it in 1843 to plans by their engineer Thomas Rhodes, replacing the older Hamilton’s Lock nearby, and made it big enough for the steamers of the day. It lies in a cut on the Offaly bank beside the 12-sluice Meelick weir, close to where Galway, Offaly and Tipperary meet. The keeper works it during the published hours, with a break from 13:00 to 14:00 (+353 90 975 1359); a passage costs 2 Smart Card units or €1.50, and everyone handling lines must wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid. Le Boat allows about two hours from Portumna. Northbound boats that clear the lock late can stop for the night at Meelick Quay, just above it.