Phare du Haut-fond Prince

The Phare du Haut-fond Prince is a historic lighthouse located on Prince Shoal, off the coast of La Haute-Côte-Nord, Quebec, Canada.

History

• The lighthouse has been in operation since 1855, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners.
• The Phare du Haut-fond Prince played a significant role during World War II, serving as a vital aid to navigation for Allied forces.

Architecture

The tower stands at a height of approximately 24 meters (79 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of about 40 meters (131 feet).

The structure is constructed from cast iron and features a distinctive octagonal shape.

The lighthouse was designed by architect John Fowler, who also designed several other notable Canadian lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Phare du Haut-fond Prince emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

The light is visible from a distance of about 10 nautical miles (19 kilometers) at night.

Current Status

The Phare du Haut-fond Prince is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1980s.

The lighthouse remains in operation and serves as a vital reference point for mariners navigating the waters off Prince Shoal.

Location and Accessibility

The Phare du Haut-fond Prince is located on Prince Shoal, approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) east of the town of La Haute-Côte-Nord.

The lighthouse can be accessed by boat or via a short hike from the nearby shore.

Visitors are welcome to explore the lighthouse and its surrounding area.

Heritage Status

The Phare du Haut-fond Prince is listed as a historic site under the Canadian National Historic Sites Act, recognizing its importance in Canada's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• The SS Mont-Blanc sank in 1917, and the Phare du Haut-fond Prince played a role in rescue operations.