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Kvitholmen Range Front Lighthouse

Fl White 3s🇳🇴Tromsø, NOOperational

Also known as: Simabakleia

The Kvitholmen (Simabakleia) Range Front is an active navigational aid. It is a green, cylindrical fiberglass tower with a focal height of 15 meters. Situated near Tromsø, Norway, its light is white and flashes once every three seconds (Fl W 3s). This light functions as the forward component of a range system, marking a precise course for mariners. While the site is accessible for public viewing of the operational lighthouse, entry into the tower is not permitted. The structure provides navigational reference for the Kvitholmen (Simabakleia) waters.

Why it matters: As the front marker of a range system, this light, paired with a rear marker, helps vessels maintain a specific course through a Norwegian channel, aiding safe passage.

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 3s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
3s
Raw Code
Fl W 3s
Focal Height
15m
Geographic Range
11.9NM
City
Tromsø
Country
🇳🇴Norway
Region
Troms
Sea Region
Kvitholmen (Simabakleia) Range Front, Norway
Latitude
69.9289°
Longitude
18.4702°
Nearest Port
Tromvik(8.9 km)
Admiralty No.
L3594
NGA No.
13304
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
green
Material
fiberglass

Structure: Kvitholmen (Simabakleia) Range Front is an active navigational aid positioned along the intricate coastline of Norway. This light, with its focal plane at 15 meters, emits a distinct white flash every three seconds, serving as the forward element of a critical range system. Its primary purpose is to guide mariners through a specific, often narrow, channel or approach, ensuring safe passage by allowing them to align their vessel precisely with the designated course. The site itself is accessible, inviting visitors to experience the coastal environment and observe the operational lighthouse, though the tower itself remains closed to public entry. This light continues its vital, daily function, silently assisting countless vessels as they navigate the sometimes-treacherous waters off the Norwegian coast. It represents the enduring need for reliable maritime guidance in these northern latitudes, a constant presence for those plying these waters.

Open to public
Site open, tower closed
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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How do mariners identify Kvitholmen Range Front Lighthouse at night?+
Kvitholmen Range Front displays the characteristic Fl White 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 color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Kvitholmen Range Front Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Kvitholmen Range Front Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Vengsøy at 6.2 NM to the SSE. Other ports served include Tromvik (9.3 NM S), Bellvika (10.7 NM SE), Kaldfjord (15.7 NM SSE), Tromsø (19.3 NM SE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Kvitholmen Range Front Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Kvitholmen Range Front 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 Kvitholmen Range Front Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Kvitholmen Range Front 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.