Chrome Island, located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is a small island known for its lighthouse. This lighthouse, known as Chrome Island Lighthouse, provides a gleaming beacon of light to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Pacific. The lighthouse is famous for its distinctive chrome-plated lantern room and has become a popular tourist attraction. In this article, we will explore the history and unique features of Chrome Island Lights.
History
Chrome Island Lighthouse was first built in 1891 and was operated by resident keepers for many years. The original lighthouse was a wooden structure and was replaced by a concrete tower in 1949. The most notable feature of the lighthouse is its chrome-plated lantern room, which was installed in 1958. This feature has made the lighthouse a recognizable landmark and has contributed to its popularity among tourists.
Design and Construction
The chrome-plated lantern room of Chrome Island Lighthouse was designed to protect the light source, which is a powerful lamp that can be seen from 17 nautical miles. The lantern room is made of steel and is about 9 feet high and 7 feet in diameter. The chrome plating gives the lantern room a shiny, reflective surface that is visible from great distances.
Tourist Attraction
Chrome Island Lights have become a popular tourist attraction because of their unique and striking appearance. Visitors can access the island by boat or by taking a guided tour. The island is only accessible during certain times of the year and visitors are allowed to explore the island and take photographs of the lighthouse.
Impact on Navigation Safety
Chrome Island Lights are an important navigation aid for ships traveling along the west coast of Vancouver Island. The high-intensity light can be seen from distances of up to 17 nautical miles, guiding ships through the dark and treacherous waters. The light also serves as a warning to ships to navigate carefully around the island, which is surrounded by rocks and reefs.
The Future of Chrome Island Lighthouse
Chrome Island Lighthouse is still an active navigation aid, providing an essential service to ships traveling along the west coast of Vancouver Island. The lighthouse is automated and is maintained by the Canadian Coast Guard. Despite the increasing use of electronic navigation aids, the bright light of the lighthouse remains a crucial tool for safe navigation.
Chrome Island Lights have become an important landmark and tourist attraction on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The chrome-plated lantern room is a unique feature that has contributed to the lighthouse’s popularity. The lighthouse also serves an essential function as a navigational aid, helping ships avoid the hazards of the Pacific waters. The future of the lighthouse looks secure, as it remains an active and vital part of the navigation safety infrastructure.