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Hourtin Lighthouse

Fl white 5s🇫🇷Hourtin, FROperational

Location & Light Range

About Hourtin Lighthouse

Also known as: Hourtin (Tour Sud)

Hourtin lighthouse, constructed of red brick with stone trim, was built in 1863. The square tower stands 23 meters tall, with its light positioned at a focal height of 55 meters, providing a geographic range of 21 nautical miles. Originally intended to mark the dark coast between the Gironde estuary and the Bassin d'Arcachon, it was deactivated in 1894. The tower was reactivated in 1964 as a satellite tracking station. The structure is now topped by two parabolic antennas and other communications equipment, and its site is closed to the public.

Why it matters: The lighthouse was essential for navigating the featureless coast between the Gironde estuary and the Bassin d'Arcachon. Its subsequent repurposing as a satellite tracking station highlights the enduring strategic value of its location.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl white 5s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
white
Interval
5s
Raw Code
Fl.W
Focal Height
55m
Geographic Range
21NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1863

Significant events: Deactivated in 1894, reactivated as satellite tracking station in 1964

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Pauillac(18.4 km)
Admiralty No.
D1372
NGA No.
113-1556
ARLHS No.
FRA-811
Wikidata
Q2377829 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
23m
Tower Shape
square
Tower Color
red brick with stone trim
Material
brick

Structure: square brick tower with gallery, topped by two parabolic antennas and other communications gear

Location

City
Hourtin
Country
🇫🇷France
Region
Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Sea Region
Located on the coast between the mouth of the Gironde and the Bassin d'Arcachon, surrounded by the Forêt d'Hourtin, a national maritime forest reserve.
Latitude
45.1414°
Longitude
-1.1613°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Hourtin Lighthouse at night?+
Hourtin displays the characteristic Fl white 5s. 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 color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Hourtin Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Hourtin Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Pauillac at 18 NM to the E. Other ports served include Saint-Christoly-Médoc (18.7 NM NE), Port de Goulee (19.1 NM NE), LAMARQUE (19.9 NM E), Lamarque (20 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Hourtin Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Hourtin 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 Hourtin Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Hourtin 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.