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York Spit Lighthouse

Fl White 6s🇺🇸USOperational

York Spit lighthouse marks a hazard where the York River joins a larger body of water, likely the Chesapeake Bay. The lighthouse is situated on a submerged or partially submerged sandy projection. Its presence ensures safe passage for vessels navigating busy shipping lanes in this area. The light operates with a white flash every 6 seconds. While the site is accessible, the tower itself is closed to the public. The nearest port is Yorktown, 7.8 kilometers away.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is essential for delineating the York Spit, a navigational hazard. It supports the safe transit of commercial and recreational vessels, preventing groundings and collisions in a critical waterway.

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 6s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
6s
Raw Code
Fl W 6s
Country
🇺🇸United States
Region
Virginia
Sea Region
York Spit
Latitude
37.3109°
Longitude
-76.5865°
Nearest Port
Yorktown(7.8 km)
Admiralty No.
J1504
USCG No.
2-13455
ARLHS No.
USA-909

Structure: York Spit (3) lighthouse guides mariners navigating the waters where the York River meets a larger body, likely the Chesapeake Bay. Positioned on a submerged or partially submerged sandy projection, it marks a critical hazard for vessels traversing these busy shipping lanes. While its specific construction history isn't detailed, its presence ensures safe passage through an area that would otherwise pose a significant risk to maritime traffic. Today, the light remains active, continuing its vital role in coastal navigation. Although the site itself is accessible, the tower remains closed to visitors, preserving its operational integrity while still allowing a glimpse of its enduring purpose.

Open to public
Site open, tower closed
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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How do mariners identify York Spit Lighthouse at night?+
York Spit displays the characteristic Fl White 6s. 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 York Spit Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
York Spit Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is RIVERWALK LANDING at 5.8 NM to the SE. Other ports served include WORMLEY CREEK (8.1 NM SE), CROWN POINTE (8.2 NM ESE), MILLS (10 NM SE), JAMESTOWN BASIN (10.5 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is York Spit Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, York Spit 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 York Spit Lighthouse?+
York Spit Lighthouse is located within the US East Coast shipping lane — a major shipping corridor serving ports along the Atlantic seaboard of the United States. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near York Spit Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near York Spit 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.