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Itapema Lighthouse

Fl Red 3s🇧🇷Guarujá, BROperational

Location & Light Range

About Itapema Lighthouse

Also known as: Itapema (Alfândega)

The Itapema lighthouse, constructed in 1908, is a square cylindrical tower standing 12 meters tall, with an attached keeper's cottage. It is situated on an island east of the Santos Estuary, opposite the Santos waterfront and near a ferry terminal. The lighthouse was built by the customs office and integrated into the historic Forte do Itapema, a sixteenth-century fortification. It emitted a red light with one flash every 3 seconds. The lighthouse ceased operations in 1976 after a fire gutted the tower, leaving it in disrepair.

Why it matters: The lighthouse's integration with the historic Forte do Itapema highlights its connection to Brazil's colonial past and maritime heritage.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl Red 3s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Red
Interval
3s
Raw Code
Fl R 3s
Light Range
5NM (9.3 km)

Construction & History

Year Built
1908

Significant events: Inactive since 1976, gutted by fire in 1976

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
12m
Tower Shape
cylindrical

Structure: square cylindrical tower with attached keeper's cottage

Location

City
Guarujá
Country
🇧🇷Brazil
Region
São Paulo
Sea Region
An island on the east side of the Santos Estuary, across from the waterfront of Santos and close to a ferry terminal
Latitude
-23.9370°
Longitude
-46.3087°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Santos(3.1 km)
ARLHS No.
BRA-140
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Itapema Lighthouse at night?+
Itapema displays the characteristic Fl Red 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 red color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Itapema Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Itapema Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 4 nearby ports. The closest is Santos at 2.6 NM to the WSW. Other ports served include Guarujá (5 NM SE), Cubatão (6.7 NM WNW), ITANHAEM (30.5 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Itapema Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Itapema 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 Itapema Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Itapema 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.