Commemorating the Golden Jubilee of the British Loyalty Wreck in Addu City

A special event was held this morning to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the British Loyalty Wreck at Maradhoo, Addu City harbor. This event was organized by Nalafehi Meedhoo, a non-governmental organization based in Meedhoo in Addu City in collaboration with Addu City Council. It was special guested by the Minister of Tourism, Dr. Abdulla Mausoom. In addition to this, Visit Maldives, had also taken part in the event.

(Photo: Addu CIty Council)

The day marks the 75^th anniversary of the sinking of the British World War II oil tanker in Addu City. The British Loyalty Wreck is the biggest shipwreck in our country which lies 33 meters underwater between the islands Maradhoo and Hithadhoo. To preserve the natural beauty and the surrounding, the area was given ‘protected’ status by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2018.

Over the years, the British Loyalty Wreck attracted a lot of attention and popularity as diving destination amongst local and tourists and has also been named as one of the best dive sites in the country. The ship is enwrapped in both hard and soft corals which is home to many small fishes. Often groups of local fishes such as the blue-fin jack and turtles swim around the ship. On occasions, divers have also found manta rays and sharks around the ship.

The event which commenced with unveiling the logo of the 75^th anniversary of the British Loyalty Wreck included of cultural dances and activities along with speeches from special guests. Moreover, a British Loyalty model was handed over to the Addu City Mayor, Mr. Abdulla Sadiq.

Following the event, special guests traveled to the shipwreck for the special diving event which ended with a special group photo and the handing over of the certificate of participation to the divers.