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Scarinish Lighthouse

Fl White 3s🇬🇧GBOperational

Location & Light Range

About Scarinish Lighthouse

The Scarinish light, first established in 1897, guides vessels into the harbor of Scarinish on the Isle of Tiree. The current structure features a post atop a square, 1-story equipment building, replacing a smaller octagonal tower. This light displays a white flash every 3 seconds from a focal height of 11 meters. Its geographic range extends to 10.7 nautical miles. The site is open to the public, although the tower itself is closed to visitors. Scarinish harbor is located 0.6 kilometers from the nearest port of the same name.

Why it matters: The Scarinish light is essential for safe navigation into Scarinish harbor, the primary port and main settlement on the Isle of Tiree, marking its entrance and ensuring continued accessibility for the island community.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 3s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
3s
Raw Code
Fl W 3s
Focal Height
11m
Light Range
12NM (22.2 km)
Geographic Range
10.7NM

Construction & History

First Lit
1897

Significant events: Replaced a small octagonal tower

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
3.5m
Tower Shape
square
Tower Color
white

Structure: post atop a square 1-story equipment building

Location

Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Region
Scotland
Sea Region
Harbor of Scarinish, Isle of Tiree
Latitude
56.5007°
Longitude
-6.8064°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Scarinish, Tiree(0.6 km)
Admiralty No.
A4092
NGA No.
114-4004
ARLHS No.
SCO204
Wikidata
Q106257744 →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How far offshore can Scarinish Lighthouse be seen?+
With a focal height of 11 meters and a nominal range of 12 nautical miles (approximately 22.2 km), Scarinish is visible from well offshore under standard atmospheric conditions. Actual visibility depends on observer height, weather, and sea state. This range makes it a significant coastal navigation aid for vessels transiting the area.
How do mariners identify Scarinish Lighthouse at night?+
Scarinish displays the characteristic Fl White 3s. 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 Scarinish Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Scarinish Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Scarinish, Tiree at 0.6 NM to the NNE. Other ports served include Arinagour (11.4 NM NE), Coll (11.7 NM NE), Baile Mor, Iona (16.8 NM SE), Fionnphort, Isle of Mull (18.3 NM SE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Scarinish Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Scarinish 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 Scarinish Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Scarinish 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.