Get the MarineRadar appSatellite AISSatellite live trackingTrack any shipLive alerts112,000+ ships trackedDownload free

Skarð Lighthouse

Fl (3) White/Red/Green 30s🇮🇸ISOperational

Also known as: Skarð (Vatnsnes)

This stone lighthouse, built in 1951, stands 14 meters tall on a bluff marking the eastern side of the entrance to Miðfjörður. Its cylindrical tower, painted white with a red lantern, features a gallery and was constructed in a design similar to the Ædey lighthouse. The light emits three flashes of white, red, or green every 30 seconds, visible for 19 nautical miles. The focal height of the light is 52 meters above sea level. Located about 11 kilometers north of Hvammstangi, the site is open to visitors, though the tower itself is closed.

Why it matters: The lighthouse is essential for safe passage into Miðfjörður, delineating the fjord's entrance. Its directional light, changing color based on bearing, provides precise guidance for local fishing vessels and coastal traffic.

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) White/Red/Green 30s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White/Red/Green
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
30s
Raw Code
Fl(3) WRG 30s
Focal Height
52m
Geographic Range
19NM
Year Built
1951
Open to public
Site open, tower closed
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
Tower Height
14m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
white with a red lantern
Material
stone

Structure: round stone tower with lantern and gallery

Country
🇮🇸Iceland
Region
Húnaþing vestra
Sea Region
on a bluff marking the east side of the entrance to the Miðfjörður, about 11 km (7 mi) north of Hvammstangi
Latitude
65.4855°
Longitude
-20.9871°
Nearest Port
Hvammstangi(5.7 km)
Admiralty No.
L4628
NGA No.
18672
ARLHS No.
ICE-083
Live tracking · 50,000+ mariners

Find Skarð Lighthouse on the live nautical map

Plan voyages near Iceland, see nearby vessels in real time, and explore 14,900+ navigation aids in the app.

Nautical mapNearby vesselsVoyage planning
Get the App
How do mariners identify Skarð Lighthouse at night?+
Skarð displays the characteristic Fl (3) White/Red/Green 30s — 3 white/red/green 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. The white/red/green color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Skarð Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Skarð Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Hvammstangi at 5.5 NM to the S. Other ports served include Ospakseyri (11.3 NM W), Drangsnes (17.7 NM NW), Blonduos (20.3 NM ENE), HOLMAVIK (21.4 NM NW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Skarð Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Skarð 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 Skarð Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Skarð 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.