Rockland Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse

About

Introduction:

Perched on the end of a nearly mile-long breakwater, the Rockland Harbor Breakwater Light looks almost like an ordinary Colonial-era house until you notice the black cap of the light tower on the brick portion of the building.

The 39-foot-tall tower has a white light that flashes every five seconds, and a horn that sounds every fifteen seconds during periods of fog. The old original fifth order glass Fresnel lens has been replaced by an acrylic VRB-25 lens during upgrades.

History:

The wood and brick lighthouse was constructed on the breakwall in 1902 as the primary lighted aid to navigation into Rockland Harbor, and although the United States Coast Guard automated the light in 1965, it is still maintained as an important navigation aid.

Navigating in and Around the Lighthouse:

Use NOAA Chart 13303.

The Rockland Harbor Breakwater was constructed to protect Rockland Harbor from the open waters of Penobscot Bay, and the lighthouse here was put in place to guide mariners safely into the harbor. Once around Owls Head Light if approaching from the south, the light and breakwater should be visible, and two lighted buoys farther in will guide you safely to Rockland-proper. If approaching from points north, a red and white Morse (A) buoy starts you in from Penobscot Bay toward the breakwater and the lighthouse.

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.