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Port-en-Bessin Antérieur Lighthouse

🇫🇷Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, FROperational

Built in 1905, the Port-en-Bessin Antérieur lighthouse stands at the entrance to the fishing port of Port-en-Bessin on France's Normandy coast. This light is one of two that guide vessels into the inner harbor. The lighthouse structure has a focal height of 25 meters and a geographic range of 14.3 nautical miles. Visitors can access the site, but the tower itself is closed to the public. It remains an active aid to navigation.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is important for the local fishing fleet, offering guidance into Port-en-Bessin harbor, especially in poor visibility or at night. Its operation since 1905 highlights its value in ensuring safe passage through the harbor entrance.

Focal Height
25m
Geographic Range
14.3NM
Year Built
1905
Open to public
Site open, tower closed
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Structure: Port-en-Bessin Antérieur (2) lighthouse, established in 1905, marks the entrance to the charming and bustling fishing port of Port-en-Bessin on the Normandy coast of France. This light is one of two guiding vessels safely into the inner harbor, a vital lifeline for the local fleet returning from the rich fishing grounds of the English Channel. The port itself is a picturesque scene, with colorful trawlers lining the quays and the daily rhythm of the sea dictating life. Over a century, this lighthouse has witnessed countless departures and arrivals, standing steadfast through fair weather and fierce storms, a silent guardian for generations of mariners. Today, it remains an active aid to navigation, continuing its essential work. While visitors can explore the surrounding port area and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the lighthouse tower itself is not open for public ascent, preserving its operational integrity. It quietly contributes to the maritime heritage and ongoing economic life of this historic Norman town.

City
Port-en-Bessin-Huppain
Country
🇫🇷France
Region
Normandy
Sea Region
Port-en-Bessin, France
Latitude
49.3494°
Longitude
-0.7589°
Nearest Port
Carentan(18.7 km)
ARLHS No.
FRA-605
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Which ports and harbors does Port-en-Bessin Antérieur Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Port-en-Bessin Antérieur Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Port-en-Bessin-Huppain at 0.2 NM to the ESE. Other ports served include Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer (5 NM WNW), Asnelles (6.9 NM E), Ver-sur-Mer (8.9 NM E), COURSEULLES (11.6 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Port-en-Bessin Antérieur Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Port-en-Bessin Antérieur 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 Port-en-Bessin Antérieur Lighthouse?+
Port-en-Bessin Antérieur Lighthouse is located within the English Channel / North Sea corridor — one of the world's busiest maritime corridors connecting the Atlantic to Northern European ports. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Port-en-Bessin Antérieur Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Port-en-Bessin Antérieur 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.