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Seacow Head Lighthouse

Fl (2) W 12s🇨🇦Western Prince Edward Island, CAOperational

Location & Light Range

About Seacow Head Lighthouse

Built in 1864, the Seacow Head Light stands as a white octagonal tower with a red top. The structure reaches a height of 18 meters, with its light positioned 27 meters above sea level. This light emits two white flashes every 12 seconds, offering a geographic range of 12 nautical miles. The lighthouse was moved in 1979 to address coastal erosion concerns. Its name originates from the historical presence of walruses in the surrounding waters.

Why it matters: Designated a heritage lighthouse, Seacow Head appeared in the television series Road to Avonlea.

Background
The Seacow Head Light is a lighthouse on the south-central coast of Prince Edward Island, Canada, west of Central Bedeque. It was built in 1864. The lighthouse was relocated in 1979 to avoid erosion. The lighthouse appeared in several episodes of the television series Road to Avonlea and was home to one of the series' main characters, Gus Pike. The name "Seacow Head" was given in reference to the walrus, formerly abundant in nearby waters, and is not connected with Steller's Sea Cow or other Sirenia.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (2) W 12s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
2 flashes
Interval
12s
Raw Code
Fl.(2)W. period 12s
Focal Height
27m
Geographic Range
12NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1864
Heritage Status
heritage lighthouse

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
H1046
NGA No.
8308
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q7440295 →
OpenStreetMap
View on OSM →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
18m
Tower Shape
octagonal
Tower Color
white and red

Structure: White octagonal tower, red top; 60

Location

City
Western Prince Edward Island
Country
🇨🇦CA
Latitude
46.3155°
Longitude
-63.8100°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Seacow Head Lighthouse at night?+
Seacow Head displays the characteristic Fl (2) W 12s — 2 white flashes every 12 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 Seacow Head Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Seacow Head Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Summerside at 5.2 NM to the NNE. Other ports served include Borden (6 NM SE), Cape Tormentine (11.1 NM S), Port Elgin (20.4 NM SW), Pugwash (27.5 NM S). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Seacow Head Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Seacow 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.
How can I track vessels near Seacow Head Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Seacow 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.