Seal Point is a lighthouse on Cape St. Francis in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The lighthouse is operational and houses a museum. Public access to the top of the tower is allowed in the company of a guide. Construction on the lighthouse started in November 1875 and it became operational on 4 July 1878. Total construction cost was £20,000. The lighthouse was used by SANCOB to house penguins and other birdlife. This was until its closure in recent years. Currently, the area around the lighthouse has been developed into bike paths.

Historical Background

The lighthouse was completed in 1878 and has been operational since then. It was built to aid maritime navigation along the rugged and treacherous coast of the Eastern Cape. The lighthouse is a striking structure, standing at 23 m tall, making it one of the tallest masonry lighthouses in South Africa. It is built from stone, with a classic whitewashed exterior and red lantern house.

Location and Significance

Seal Point Lighthouse is located on Seal Point, near the town of Cape St. Francis. This location is significant due to its position along a busy and historically dangerous stretch of coastline. The primary function of the lighthouse is to warn ships of the hazardous reefs and shallow waters in the area, helping to prevent shipwrecks and maritime accidents.

Features

The lighthouse originally used a fixed white light that was visible for 24 nmi. Over the years, it has been updated with modern lighting technology to ensure its continued effectiveness. In addition to the light, the lighthouse is equipped with a fog signal to aid navigation during periods of poor visibility.

Current Status

Today, the Seal Point Lighthouse is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the lighthouse, learn about its history, and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding coastline. The lighthouse is maintained as part of South Africa's maritime heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The lighthouse is part of the Cape St. Francis resort area, which offers various amenities and activities for visitors, including guided tours, a museum, and nearby natural attractions such as beaches and nature reserves. The Seal Point Lighthouse remains an iconic symbol of South Africa's nautical history and continues to serve as a vital navigational aid for ships travelling along the Eastern Cape coast.