Name and Location

The Estevan Point Lighthouse is located in British Columbia, Canada, at a critical point marking the entrance to the Nootka Sound.

Construction and History

The lighthouse was constructed between 1877 and 1884 by the Canadian Government to provide navigation assistance to vessels traversing the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean. It has been guiding mariners for over a century, serving as a vital aid in navigating this challenging stretch of coastline.

Architecture and Materials

The Estevan Point Lighthouse features a distinctive red-and-white striped tower with a pyramidal shape, designed in the Victorian-era style. The structure is characterized by its robust construction using natural stone and wood as primary materials.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a characteristic light pattern of Fl(3)W.15s, providing critical information on the location and distance of nearby islands and rocks. This beacon serves as a vital aid for navigation.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Estevan Point Lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby Estevan Point village. Although not open to the general public for regular tours or entry, the lighthouse remains an iconic landmark that is easily accessible by car or on foot.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Nootka Sound, and surrounding islands. Standing sentinel over the rugged coastline, visitors can experience the awe-inspiring power of the ocean firsthand as waves crash against the rocky shores below.

Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local legend, the Estevan Point Lighthouse has been the subject of numerous shipwrecks and maritime incidents over the years. These tales have been passed down through generations, serving as a reminder of the importance of this vital aid in guiding vessels safely through treacherous waters.

Technical and Operational Details

In 1984, the lighthouse was automated, eliminating the need for human keepers. In 2004, an Automatic Identification System (AIS) was installed to provide real-time vessel tracking information.

Further Information

For more information on the Estevan Point Lighthouse, readers are encouraged to consult: The Canadian Government's Parks Canada website, the Royal Canadian Geographical Society's "Lighthouses of Canada" collection, local historical accounts and maritime records.