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Cape Spear Lighthouse

Fl (3) W 15s🇨🇦Southeastern Newfoundland, CAOperational

Location & Light Range

About Cape Spear Lighthouse

Constructed in 1836, the Cape Spear Lighthouse stands 71 meters tall on the southeastern coast of Newfoundland. This heritage structure emits a white flashing light, visible for 20 nautical miles. Its white tower is a distinctive feature of the landscape. The lighthouse was first lit in the same year it was built.

Why it matters: As a heritage lighthouse, Cape Spear holds historical significance.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) W 15s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
15s
Raw Code
Fl
Focal Height
71m
Geographic Range
20NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1836
Heritage Status
heritage lighthouse

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
H0454
NGA No.
H 0454
Wikidata
Q18668420 →
OpenStreetMap
View on OSM →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
71m
Tower Color
white

Location

City
Southeastern Newfoundland
Country
🇨🇦CA
Latitude
47.5211°
Longitude
-52.6222°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Cape Spear Lighthouse at night?+
Cape Spear displays the characteristic Fl (3) W 15s — 3 white flashes every 15 seconds. 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 Cape Spear Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Cape Spear Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Saint-John's at 5.3 NM to the WNW. Other ports served include Portugal Cove (11.4 NM NW), Bay Bulls (14.2 NM SW), Holyrood (22.3 NM WSW), Avondale (24.3 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Cape Spear Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Cape Spear 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 Spear Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Cape Spear 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.