The canal is 159 km long, including several side branches (the main way: Ostróda-Elbląg is 80 km). The canal runs partly through woods, at places wahing away high escarpments and man-made embankments. To cope with a 100 m difference of levels, a unique system of slipways and locks was design. The most attractive section is: Małdyty-Elbląg , with 5 slipways where boats are carried across dry land on rail-trolleys. The machinery consist of huge water wheels and an ingenious system of ropes for lifting or lowering the trolleys. Boating across a meadow and splashing into water is an incredible experience.
Info: www.zegluga.com.pl; seasons runs from 1 may to 30 oct. You can enjoy the entire canal or just a part of it.
Source: Poland - an ilustrated guidebook. For more information look at Pascal
