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Gairlochy Lighthouse

Fl White/Green 3s🇬🇧GBOperational

Location & Light Range

About Gairlochy Lighthouse

The Gairlochy Lighthouse was established in 1932 and is a white, cylindrical tower standing 6 meters tall. It features a black conical roof and its light has a focal height of 7 meters. The lighthouse emits a white or green flash every 3 seconds, visible for 9.3 nautical miles. It is situated on the south side of the Caledonian Canal's exit from Loch Lochy, approximately 800 meters northeast of the Gairlochy locks. The site is open to the public, though the tower itself is closed.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is essential for safe navigation on the Caledonian Canal, guiding vessels as they transition from Loch Lochy to the Gairlochy locks. Its directional light provides precise guidance within this critical section of the waterway.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl White/Green 3s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White/Green
Interval
3s
Raw Code
Fl W or G 3s
Focal Height
7m
Geographic Range
9.3NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1932

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
6m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
white, with a black conical roof

Structure: round cylindrical tower, painted white, with a black conical roof

Location

Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Region
Scotland
Sea Region
south side of the canal's southbound exit from Loch Lochy about 800 m (1/2 mi) northeast of the locks at Gairlochy
Latitude
56.9171°
Longitude
-4.9876°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Corpach(6.5 km)
Admiralty No.
A3480.
ARLHS No.
SCO-322
Wikidata
Q28465869 →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Gairlochy Lighthouse at night?+
Gairlochy displays the characteristic Fl White/Green 3s. 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. The white/green color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Gairlochy Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Gairlochy Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Corpach at 6.7 NM to the SW. Other ports served include Camusnagaul (6.9 NM SW), Fort William (7.2 NM SW), Kinlochleven (13 NM S), Ardgour (14.3 NM SW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Gairlochy Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Gairlochy 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 Gairlochy Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Gairlochy 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.