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Fort Ayabele Lighthouse

Q W 1.2s🇩🇯Djibouti, DJOperational

Location & Light Range

About Fort Ayabele Lighthouse

The Fort Ayabele lighthouse, established in 1894, is a 30-meter framework tower located in Djibouti. Its structure is characterized by white chevrons and a red top. The light source is positioned at a focal height of 32 meters above sea level. This light emits a red color with an isophase characteristic, meaning it has a regular on-and-off cycle. The tower itself is painted white with red markings, enhancing its visibility.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Q W 1.2s
Flash Type
Quick
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
1.2s
Raw Code
Iso.R.
Focal Height
32m
Geographic Range
20NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1894

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
D7280.1
NGA No.
30992
Wikidata
Q105645549 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
30m
Tower Color
white and red

Structure: Framework tower, white chevrons, panel, red top; 30. Intensified 181°-187°

Location

City
Djibouti
Country
🇩🇯DJ
Latitude
11.5531°
Longitude
43.1230°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Fort Ayabele Lighthouse at night?+
Fort Ayabele displays the characteristic Q W 1.2s — 1 white flash every 1.2 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 Fort Ayabele Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Fort Ayabele Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 4 nearby ports. The closest is Djibouti at 1.9 NM to the NNE. Other ports served include Djibouti (3 NM NNW), Damerjog (5.5 NM SE), TADJOURA (20 NM NW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Fort Ayabele Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Fort Ayabele 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 Fort Ayabele Lighthouse?+
Fort Ayabele Lighthouse is located within the Bab el-Mandeb Strait — the strategic passage connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Fort Ayabele Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Fort Ayabele 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.