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Cape Race Lighthouse

🇨🇦Ottawa, CAOperational

Location & Light Range

About Cape Race Lighthouse

Also known as: Cape Race/ Cape North (relocated to Ottawa)

This cylindrical iron lighthouse, standing 14 meters tall, was originally built in 1856. Its distinctive exterior features a red and white checkerboard pattern, with a red lantern and gallery. The structure was prefabricated in England and shipped for assembly at its initial remote location. The lighthouse is now situated inland, open to the public on its grounds, though the tower itself is closed to visitors.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is a unique example of architectural preservation, having been moved thousands of kilometers from its original operational site. Its distinctive red and white checkerboard pattern makes it instantly recognizable. It now serves as a significant cultural and educational draw at the Canadian Museum of Science and Technology.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
14m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
with a red and white checkerboard pattern
Material
iron

Structure: round cylindrical cast iron tower, painted with a red and white checkerboard pattern; lantern and gallery are red

Location

City
Ottawa
Country
🇨🇦Canada
Region
Ontario
Latitude
45.4021°
Longitude
-75.6238°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Cardinal(36.8 km)
ARLHS No.
CAN-865

Construction & History

Year Built
1856

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Which ports and harbors does Cape Race Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Cape Race Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Ottawa at 3.7 NM to the WNW. Other ports served include Orléans (4.8 NM NE), Cumberland Bay (11.7 NM NE), Inkerman (24.1 NM SSE), Cardinal (38.5 NM SSE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Cape Race Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Cape Race 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.
How can I track vessels near Cape Race Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Cape Race 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.