Malabata Lighthouse

With a focal height of 76 meters and a nominal range of 22 nautical miles (approximately 40.7 km), Malabata is visible from well offshore under standard atmospheric conditions. Actual visibility depends on observer height, weather, and sea state. Lights of this range are typically used as landfall lights by vessels approaching from the open sea.

Malabata displays the characteristic Fl W 5s — 1 white flash every 5 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.

Malabata Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Tangier at 3 NM to the SW. Other ports served include Tanger Med (13.3 NM ENE), Tarifa (13.6 NM NNE), Ceuta (21.7 NM ENE), Tétouan (23.3 NM SE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.

Yes, Malabata 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.

Malabata Lighthouse is located within the Strait of Gibraltar — the gateway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.

You can track vessels near Malabata 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.