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Rataskär Lighthouse

Fl (3) White, Red, Green 20s🇸🇪Robertsfors kommun, SEOperational

Location & Light Range

About Rataskär Lighthouse

Also known as: Rataskär (Ratanskär, Ratan Nedrefyr)

Constructed in 1890, Rataskär Lighthouse stands on a small island approximately 1.6 kilometers northeast of Ratan. The octagonal cylindrical wood tower, standing 8 meters high, is attached to the seaward end of a one-story wood building. Its focal height reaches 26 meters, casting a light visible for 14.5 nautical miles. The lighthouse emits three white, red, or green flashes every 20 seconds, providing directional guidance. The site is open to the public, though access to the tower itself is restricted.

Why it matters: The lighthouse's continued use of its original 4th order Fresnel lens highlights its historical integrity. Its unique integrated structure on a small island contributes to its distinct character.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) White, Red, Green 20s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White, Red, Green
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
20s
Raw Code
Fl(3) WGR 20s
Focal Height
26m
Geographic Range
14.5NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1890

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
8m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
white
Material
wood

Structure: octagonal cylindrical wood tower with lantern and gallery, attached to the seaward end of a 1-story wood building

Location

City
Robertsfors kommun
Country
🇸🇪Sweden
Region
Västerbotten County
Sea Region
on a small island about 1.6 km (1 mi) northeast of Ratan
Latitude
63.9925°
Longitude
20.8957°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Sikea(9.5 km)
Admiralty No.
C5848
ARLHS No.
SWE-319
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Rataskär Lighthouse at night?+
Rataskär displays the characteristic Fl (3) White, Red, Green 20s — 3 white, red, green 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, red, green color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Rataskär Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Rataskär Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is BYVIKEN at 11.4 NM to the S. Other ports served include Böda (15.4 NM NNE), Umeå (19.5 NM WSW), Holmsund (23 NM SW), Obbola (23 NM SW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Rataskär Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Rataskär 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 Rataskär Lighthouse?+
Rataskär Lighthouse is located within the Baltic Sea trade route — a vital shipping corridor for trade between Scandinavian, German, Polish, and Baltic state ports. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Rataskär Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Rataskär 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.