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São Roque Lighthouse

Occ White/Red 5s🇵🇹Machico, PTOperational

Location & Light Range

About São Roque Lighthouse

Also known as: São Roque (Machico)

This operational lighthouse is situated at the southern end of Machico harbor on Madeira's southeastern coast. The structure consists of a 7-meter tall cylindrical fiberglass tower with red and white horizontal bands, mounted on a 1-story white concrete equipment shelter. It stands 12 meters above sea level. The lighthouse emits a light that flashes white or red every 5 seconds. Its geographic range extends to 11 nautical miles, guiding vessels approaching the nearby port of Machico, which is only 0.2 km away.

Why it matters: The lighthouse is essential for vessels entering and departing Machico harbor, defining the safe channel with its distinct light. Its colorful tower also serves as a recognizable landmark for local mariners.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Occ White/Red 5s
Flash Type
Occ
Light Color
White/Red
Interval
5s
Raw Code
Occ W R 5s
Focal Height
12m
Geographic Range
11NM

Location

City
Machico
Country
🇵🇹Portugal
Sea Region
southern end of the harbor of Machico on the southeastern coast of Madeira
Latitude
32.7142°
Longitude
-16.7641°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
7m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
red and white horizontal bands
Material
concrete, fiberglass

Structure: round cylindrical fiberglass tower, colored with red and white horizontal bands and mounted on a square 1-story white concrete equipment shelter

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Machico(0.2 km)
Admiralty No.
D2728
NGA No.
23732
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify São Roque Lighthouse at night?+
São Roque displays the characteristic Occ White/Red 5s. 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 color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does São Roque Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
São Roque Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Machico at 0.9 NM to the S. Other ports served include Caniçal (1.9 NM NE), Zona Franca da Madeira (2.9 NM SSE), Porto da Cruz (4.7 NM NW), Funchal, Madeira (8.5 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is São Roque Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, São Roque 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 São Roque Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near São Roque 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.