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Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse

Oc W 3.5s🇿🇦Western South Africa, ZAOperational

Location & Light Range

About Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse

This lighthouse structure stands 43 meters high, with its focal plane at 17 meters above sea level. It emits an occulting white light, showing a brief eclipse every 4 seconds. The light's visibility extends from 055° to 315°, covering a significant arc of the surrounding waters. Constructed as a tower, it serves the navigational needs of the region.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Oc W 3.5s
Flash Type
Occulting
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
3.5s
Raw Code
Oc.W. period 4s
Focal Height
17m
Geographic Range
11NM

Location

City
Western South Africa
Country
🇿🇦ZA
Latitude
-34.1872°
Longitude
18.4405°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
43m

Structure: Tower; 43. Visible 055°-315°. Neon

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
D6144
NGA No.
32300
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse at night?+
Simonstown Dockyard displays the characteristic Oc W 3.5s — 1 white flash every 3.5 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 Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Simon's Town at 0.2 NM to the W. Other ports served include Kommetjie (7 NM WNW), HOUT BAY (9.4 NM NNW), Paardeneiland (16.3 NM N), Waterfront (16.3 NM N). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Simonstown Dockyard 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 Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse?+
Simonstown Dockyard 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 Simonstown Dockyard Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Simonstown Dockyard 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.