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Southwest Vernon Island Lighthouse

Fl (4) White 20s🇦🇺AUOperational

Location & Light Range

About Southwest Vernon Island Lighthouse

The Southwest Vernon Island lighthouse stands on the northern tip of the island, approximately 10 kilometers west-southwest of the East Vernon Light. Constructed from fiberglass, the white tower measures 6 meters in height, with its light positioned 8 meters above sea level. This automated light emits a white flash every 20 seconds, visible for 9.7 nautical miles. The site is accessible by boat and is open to the public, although the tower itself is closed. Its nearest port is Darwin, located 28.3 kilometers away.

Why it matters: This light helps guide vessels past the northern tip of Southwest Vernon Island, defining safe passage in potentially challenging waters.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (4) White 20s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
4 flashes
Interval
20s
Raw Code
Fl W 20s
Focal Height
8m
Geographic Range
9.7NM

Location

Country
🇦🇺Australia
Sea Region
northern tip of Southwest Vernon Island, about 10 km west southwest of the East Vernon Light, Australia
Latitude
-12.0402°
Longitude
131.0157°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Darwin(28.3 km)
Admiralty No.
Q3317
NGA No.
9536

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
6m
Tower Color
white
Material
fiberglass

Structure: white fiberglass tower

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Southwest Vernon Island Lighthouse at night?+
Southwest Vernon Island displays the characteristic Fl (4) White 20s — 4 white flashes every 20 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 color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Southwest Vernon Island Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Southwest Vernon Island Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 3 nearby ports. The closest is Palmerston at 27.8 NM to the SSW. Other ports served include Darwin (28.5 NM SSW), Melville Island (29.8 NM N). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Southwest Vernon Island Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Southwest Vernon Island 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 Southwest Vernon Island Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Southwest Vernon Island 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.