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Ponta do Topo Lighthouse

Fl (3) White 20s🇵🇹Calheta, PTOperational

Location & Light Range

About Ponta do Topo Lighthouse

Constructed in 1927, the Ponta do Topo Lighthouse is a 16-meter round, white cylindrical tower accented with black trim, topped by a red lantern. Its light source is positioned 58 meters above sea level. The lighthouse displays a white flash every 20 seconds, with a geographic range of 19.8 nautical miles. The edifice comprises the tower with a gallery, connected to a one-story dwelling for the keeper. The structure sustained damage from an earthquake in 1980, at which time its Fresnel lens was taken out.

Why it matters: This light marks the island's easternmost point, serving as a navigation aid for ships in the surrounding ocean. The removed Fresnel lens is now an exhibit in Lisbon.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) White 20s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
20s
Raw Code
Fl W 20s
Focal Height
58m
Geographic Range
19.8NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1927

Significant events: Earthquake damage 1980, Fresnel lens removed

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Calheta(12.3 km)
Admiralty No.
D2680
ARLHS No.
AZO-018

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
16m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
white with black trim, lantern red

Structure: round cylindrical tower with lantern and gallery, attached to a 1-story keeper's house

Location

City
Calheta
Country
🇵🇹Portugal
Sea Region
Eastern tip of the island of Ponta do Topo
Latitude
38.5491°
Longitude
-27.7548°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Ponta do Topo Lighthouse at night?+
Ponta do Topo displays the characteristic Fl (3) White 20s — 3 white flashes every 20 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 white color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Ponta do Topo Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Ponta do Topo Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Topo at 1.3 NM to the W. Other ports served include Calheta, Island São Jorge (12.4 NM WNW), Velas (22.2 NM WNW), São Mateus (23.7 NM ENE), Lajes (25.2 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Ponta do Topo Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Ponta do Topo 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 Ponta do Topo Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Ponta do Topo 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.