Saltstraumen Lighthouse

The Saltstraumen Lighthouse stands near the northeast pier of the Highway 17 bridge, guiding mariners through a challenging channel southeast of Bodø. This strait serves as the main exit for the Skjerstadfjord and features powerful tidal currents, creating large maelstroms. Navigation is limited to the short periods between tidal flows. The lighthouse's light is mounted on a bracket attached to the bridge's pier. An original, inactive octagonal lantern and gallery, painted white and resting on a concrete base, remains near the east end of the bridge on Knapplandsøya. The operational light has a focal height of 9 meters and a geographic range of 10 nautical miles.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is essential for vessels navigating the Saltstraumen channel, known for its extreme tidal currents and dangerous whirlpools, specifically warning of the hazardous conditions in the Skjerstadfjord's outlet.