Merkanti Reef

Malta, Malta

Depth

20m

Visibility

- - -

Entry

Shore

Experience Level

Beginner

Merkanti Reef

Malta, Malta

Depth

20m

Visibility

- - -

Entry

Shore

Experience Level

Beginner

About Merkanti Reef

Merkanti Reef is a shallow dive site located off the northeastern coast of Malta, near St. Julianâ€™s. The reef is divided into two parts that run parallel to the shore and each other, with the top of both just reaching the surface. The reef is home to a variety of marine life that can be found in the numerous overhangs, crevices, and nooks. The dive site is about 150 metres from the nearest shore and approximately 300 metres from the entry/exit point. Divers can access the site either by boat or from the shore, which requires a long surface swim or underwater navigation. The entry/exit point for a shore dive is in a small bay between Westin Dragonara and Hilton Malta, near Merkanti Beach Club.

The maximum depth of the dive is around 20 metres, although the dive can be done without going deeper than 10-12 metres. When diving Merkanti Reef, divers should be aware of the boat traffic and carry a DSMB. The dive site is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depth and the variety of marine life makes it an interesting dive. The reef is located in Malta, a popular diving destination known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. The dive site type is a reef.

Merkanti Reef Dive Info

Terrain & Features

Reef

Entry Type

Shore

Max Depth

20m

Visibility Range

— – —

Experience Level

Beginner

Best Gas Mix

21% – 47%

O₂

CNS Load (35 min)

12% at 18m / 36%

O₂

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Location

Dive Site Hazards

Hidden Depth Variations — Complex reef topography can conceal depth changes, leading to unintended profile variations.
Distraction from Marine Activity — High fish activity can distract divers and delay depth or gas awareness.
Rapid Surge Direction Changes — Surge near reef structures can reverse direction quickly, pushing divers sideways into unexpected areas.

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