Magnetic forces developed from electromagnets, superconductor magnets, or other magnets, serve as the basic elements to move, control, direct and stabilize ships in locks chambers and canals. Basic requirements include, but are not limited to, a power supply, the magnetic devices and a system for operation and control of the magnetic devices. This process of moving ships through canals and locks chambers will eliminate other, more expensive means currently in use. The magnetic system will speed the process of canal transit because of its simplicity of operation. It will require much less hardware and human resources to operate and maintain. The magnets would be installed in the locks chamber floors. In canals and approach lanes, the magnets could be placed on a substructure at the bottom of the channel using different structural elements depending on the channel's shape, size and dredging needs. The essence of this invention is to use the most advanced technology of magnetism available to move ships through locks and canals safely, efficiently and economically.