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Île Rachgoun Lighthouse

Fl (2) Red 10s🇩🇿DZOperational

Location & Light Range

About Île Rachgoun Lighthouse

Also known as: Île Rachgoun (Béni Saf)

The Île Rachgoun Lighthouse, built in 1870, stands on its namesake island approximately 8 kilometers west of Béni Saf. The structure is a 15-meter-high cylindrical masonry tower, buff with deep red trim, topped by a black lantern and gallery. It rises from a one-story keeper's house. The lighthouse emits a single red flash every 10 seconds. Its focal height is 81 meters above sea level, providing a geographic range of 22.8 nautical miles. The tower and island are currently closed to the public.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is important for maritime safety, guiding vessels navigating the approaches to Béni Saf and warning them of the island.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (2) Red 10s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Red
Flash Count
2 flashes
Interval
10s
Raw Code
Fl R 10s
Focal Height
81m
Geographic Range
22.8NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1870

Significant events: A 2020 photo shows the lighthouse in need of restoration

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Benisaf(4.6 km)

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
15m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
buff with deep red trim; lantern and gallery black
Material
masonry

Structure: square cylindrical masonry tower with lantern and gallery, rising from a 1-story keeper's house

Location

Country
🇩🇿Algeria
Region
Aïn Témouchent
Sea Region
Located atop an island about 8 km west of Béni Saf
Latitude
35.3240°
Longitude
-1.4798°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Île Rachgoun Lighthouse at night?+
Île Rachgoun displays the characteristic Fl (2) Red 10s — 2 red flashes every 10 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. The red color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Île Rachgoun Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Île Rachgoun Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Benisaf at 4.5 NM to the ESE. Other ports served include Ghazaouet (23 NM SW), Tlemcen (28.8 NM SSE), SAIDIA (42 NM WSW), Oran (46.3 NM ENE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Île Rachgoun Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Île Rachgoun 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 Île Rachgoun Lighthouse?+
Île Rachgoun Lighthouse is located within the Mediterranean East-West corridor — a major trade route spanning the Mediterranean from Gibraltar to the Suez Canal. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Île Rachgoun Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Île Rachgoun 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.