Inaugurated in 1829, the original Welland Canal enabled ships to travel between Ontario and Erie Lakes. Since then, the canal has been consolidated and enlarged and is a part of the St. Laurence Seaway. 45km/27mi long, it cuts across the Niagara peninsula between St. Catharines and Colborne Port and includes no less than 8 locks with a height difference of 99m/324ft between the lakes. A drive past 7 of the canal's 8 locks gives an idea of the importance of this seaway.