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Cap Spartel Lighthouse

Fl (4) W🇲🇦Morocco (Atlantic Coast), MAOperational

Cap Spartel Lighthouse is a maritime navigation aid located in Morocco (Atlantic Coast), MA. It is currently operational and active, providing guidance to vessels navigating the surrounding waters. The light sits at a focal height of 95 meters above mean sea level. Under standard atmospheric conditions, the light is visible up to 30 nautical miles (approximately 55.6 km) from the observer.

Light characteristic: The identifying signal of this lighthouse is Fl (4) W. The light emits 4 flashes per cycle. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern listed in nautical publications, allowing mariners to confirm their position. The light displays a white signal, the most common color for major coastal lights.

Visibility and range: With a focal height of 95 meters and a nominal range of 30 nautical miles, this light serves as a major coastal light visible from well offshore. Lights of this range are typically used as landfall lights by vessels approaching from the open sea, helping them make a safe approach to the coast.

Position: Cap Spartel Lighthouse is positioned at 35.7910°N, 5.9237°W, near Morocco (Atlantic Coast) in MA. The blue circle on the map represents the nominal 30-nautical-mile range of the light.

Geographic context: Cap Spartel Lighthouse is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, within the Strait of Gibraltar — the gateway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The location falls within the temperate maritime climate zone.

Nearby lighthouses in MA: Other lighthouses in the region include Agadir Grande Jetée, Al Mina, Bahía de Angra de Cintra, Cap Beddouza, Cap d'Aglou. View all on the Lighthouses Directory.

Characteristic Signature
Fl (4) W
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
4 flashes
Focal Height
95m
Light Range
30NM (55.6 km)
Status
ACTIVE
City
Morocco (Atlantic Coast)
Country
🇲🇦MA
Latitude
35.7910°
Longitude
-5.9237°
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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How far offshore can Cap Spartel Lighthouse be seen?+
With a focal height of 95 meters and a nominal range of 30 nautical miles (approximately 55.6 km), Cap Spartel is visible from well offshore under standard atmospheric conditions. Actual visibility depends on observer height, weather, and sea state. Lights of this range are typically used as landfall lights by vessels approaching from the open sea.
How do mariners identify Cap Spartel Lighthouse at night?+
Cap Spartel displays the characteristic Fl (4) W. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area.
Which ports and harbors does Cap Spartel Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Cap Spartel Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Tangier at 6.1 NM to the E. Other ports served include Asilah (20 NM SSW), Tarifa (20.4 NM NE), Tanger Med (21.8 NM ENE), BARBATE (23.6 NM N). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Cap Spartel Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Cap Spartel Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
What shipping routes pass near Cap Spartel Lighthouse?+
Cap Spartel Lighthouse is located within the Strait of Gibraltar — the gateway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Cap Spartel Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Cap Spartel Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.