Gorling Bluff Lighthouse

The Gorling Bluff Lighthouse, also known as the East End Light, is located at the east end of Grand Cayman island in the Cayman Islands. The lighthouse was built in 1900, with the current tower being constructed in 1937. It is a steel skeletal tower with a square shape and a balcony and beacon, standing at a height of 8 meters and a focal height of 22 meters.

The lighthouse has a white tower with a black base and a range of 12 nautical miles. It was automated in 1937 and is managed by the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. The lighthouse is the centerpiece of East End Lighthouse Park and has a rich history, being the first navigational aid on the site. The area where the lighthouse is located has been known for its treacherous reefs, earning the nickname "Graveyard of the Caribbean".

The history of the area is marked by a significant shipwreck, the Wreck of the Ten Sail, which occurred in 1794. The wreck resulted in the loss of only eight lives, despite ten merchant vessels running aground. The lighthouse has played a crucial role in aiding navigation and preventing such disasters. The original lighthouse was erected on Gun Bluff, about half a mile away from the current site, and was replaced by the current tower in 1937.

Light and tower

The light has a focal height of 8 metres. The light has a range of 12 nautical miles. The NGA list of lights numbers it 13724. The Admiralty list of lights numbers it J5226.