Running the Docks, Every Day
From managing vessel movements and lock operations to hiring out spaces and facilities, our operational team keeps the Royal Docks active, accessible and working, day in, day out.
Booking Systems
Our online booking system makes it straightforward to request access, arrange vessel movements and manage your time in the docks. Clear, efficient and built around how the docks actually work.
Access
We manage access to the Royal Docks for a wide range of users, from commercial vessels and leisure craft to filming crews and event organisers. Safe, coordinated and consistent.
Locks
Our lock operations connect the Royal Docks to the River Thames, handling the controlled passage of vessels in and out of the dock system. Precision, timing and safety are at the heart of everything we do.
International Berth (ISPS)
The Royal Docks is home to a designated ISPS berth, enabling vessels operating under international port security requirements to call at the docks safely and compliantly.
Rent a mooring
Whether you’re looking for a permanent berth or a short-stay mooring, we offer a range of options across the Royal Docks — secure, well-managed and in a truly unique waterside location.
Built to Last, Maintained to Perform
Royal Docks Waterways takes responsibility for the engineering infrastructure that keeps the docks operational bridges, locks, pumps and culverts maintained, repaired and renewed to serve the docks for generations to come.
Bridges
The Royal Docks is crossed by a series of bridges that connect communities and enable movement across the water. We are responsible for their ongoing inspection, maintenance and safe operation.
Locks
The locks of the Royal Docks are critical infrastructure, controlling water levels and vessel passage between the docks and the River Thames. We maintain and invest in these structures to keep them working reliably.
Pumps
Our pumping infrastructure maintains water levels across the Royal Docks, drawing from the Thames as needed. We manage the full pump lifecycle, from routine maintenance through to major refurbishment.
Culverts
Beneath the docks, a network of culverts carries essential utilities and services across the water. We maintain these hidden structures as part of our commitment to keeping the dock’s infrastructure reliably connected.
Royal Docks Waterways is actively planning for the future of the dock estate. Our phased development programme identifies opportunities to enhance infrastructure, improve waterside access and create lasting value for the docks and the communities they serve.
Get In Touch
We’re keen to hear from you, whether it is about pursuing an opportunity, or finding out more as a local stakeholder or resident.
Leave your name, email and organisation (if relevant) and we’ll keep you posted with updates.