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Rib Reef Lighthouse

Fl (2) White 8s🇦🇺AUOperational

Location & Light Range

About Rib Reef Lighthouse

This navigational aid is a 9-meter-tall white fiberglass lantern structure mounted on a concrete column. It is situated at the western entrance to the Palm Passage, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of the Pith Reef Light. The light emits a single white flash every 8 seconds, visible for 10 nautical miles. Constructed from concrete and fiberglass, the structure stands 9 meters above sea level. The site is open to the public, but visitors cannot enter the tower. The nearest port is Lucinda, located 28 kilometers away.

Why it matters: This light marks the western entrance to the Palm Passage, guiding vessels through a key navigational route and warning them of the submerged Rib Reef.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (2) White 8s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
2 flashes
Interval
8s
Raw Code
Fl W 8s
Focal Height
9m
Geographic Range
10NM

Location

Country
🇦🇺Australia
Sea Region
western entrance to the Palm Passage, about 30 km southwest of the Pith Reef Light
Latitude
-18.4777°
Longitude
146.8791°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Lucinda(28.0 km)
Admiralty No.
K3120.7
NGA No.
10008

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
9m
Tower Color
white
Material
concrete, fiberglass

Structure: white fiberglass lantern structure atop a concrete column

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Rib Reef Lighthouse at night?+
Rib Reef displays the characteristic Fl (2) White 8s — 2 white flashes every 8 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 Rib Reef Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Rib Reef Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 4 nearby ports. The closest is Lucinda at 29.6 NM to the W. Other ports served include Hinchinbrook Island (34.4 NM W), Townsville (46.6 NM S), Garbutt (47.8 NM S). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Rib Reef Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Rib Reef 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 Rib Reef Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Rib Reef 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.