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Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse

Fl (4) W 30s🇿🇦Western South Africa, ZAOperational

Location & Light Range

About Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse

This white metal framework tower stands 21 meters tall, with its light positioned at a focal height of 33 meters. The structure emits a distinctive sequence of four white flashes every 30 seconds. Its operational status ensures continuous guidance for mariners navigating the area. The lighthouse's straightforward design emphasizes functionality for maritime traffic.

Why it matters: The lighthouse offers a geographic range of 24 nautical miles, aiding vessels approaching Saldanha Bay.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (4) W 30s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
4 flashes
Interval
30s
Raw Code
Fl.(4)W. period 30s
Focal Height
33m
Geographic Range
24NM

Location

City
Western South Africa
Country
🇿🇦ZA
Latitude
-33.1056°
Longitude
17.9540°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
21m
Tower Shape
round
Tower Color
white
Material
metal

Structure: White metal framework tower; 33

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
D5831
NGA No.
25948
OpenStreetMap
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse at night?+
Saldanha Bay South Head displays the characteristic Fl (4) W 30s — 4 white flashes every 30 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.
Which ports and harbors does Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is LANGEBAAN at 3.9 NM to the E. Other ports served include Saldanha Bay (5.3 NM NNE), Bottelary (7.5 NM ESE), LAAIPLEK (22.2 NM NNE), Riebeek West (48.1 NM ESE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Saldanha Bay South Head 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 Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse?+
Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse is located within the Cape of Good Hope route — the historic shipping route around the southern tip of Africa. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Saldanha Bay South Head Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Saldanha Bay South Head 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.