Merkanti Reef, also known asMercanti Reef, is a reef off the shore ofSt. Julian's,Malta. It is located between the shores ofDragonara Palace and the Hilton Resort in St Julian's.[1]
In the waters, huge concrete blocks were laid at the bottom of the sea to block sea waves. With this aid, over time, an artificial reef was formed, hosting a significant variety of marine biodiversity.[2]
The reef leads to a sandyseabed between 15 and 20 metres off the shore.Water sports activity take place frequently, especially jet skies during the summer months and therefore divers are advised to usemarker buoys.[3][4]
On 29 July 1955, the passenger ferryMV Star of Malta ran aground on the reef and capsized, resulting in the deaths of one crew member and one passenger.[5]
In 2005, a study by the Adi Associates revealed that the Merkanti Reef was the 26th most visited diving site in Malta. TheMalta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) lists the reef under 'Protection of the Coast and the Marine Conservation Area' designated at level 3 area of ecological importance.[2]
35°55′29″N14°29′50″E / 35.92472°N 14.49722°E /35.92472; 14.49722
