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5 Best Artificial Reefs in the World

5 Best Artificial Reefs in the World

Written by Leisure Pro Staff
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Published on December 6, 2014

The best artificial reefs are executed with appropriate environmental research and are shining examples of a flawless merger between art and conservancy. These underwater installations are simultaneously a working attempt to rescue the diverse wildlife that was previously abundant in the world’s natural reefs and beautification projects that have boosted local economies through eco-tourism.

The Silent Evolution

In 2010 British artist Jason de Caires Taylor completed an underwater installation off the coast of Cancun that consists of over 400 life size statues depicting humans frozen in various poses. The Silent Evolution is an eerily fitting name for the beautifully haunting scene. The specifically chosen clay promotes coral growth and is replenishing the existing natural reef.

Gulf of Thailand

The artificial reef in Thailand has been a work in progress since 1978. It began as an attempt to recover a decaying fishing agriculture that used to be the stuff of legends. To promote coral growth they utilized tires, concrete pipes and blocks, train cabins, automobiles, and, most recently, 25 decommissioned war tanks. The effort has created an underwater landscape that is immersive and dramatic.

Temple Reef

Pondicherry, India is home to some very accessible world class diving. The government just recently finished work on this reef and the world has borne witness to its boost in biodiversity. From turtles to dolphins to manta rays, the amount of beauty on display at Temple Reef is spectacular.

Redbird Reef

Off the coast of Delaware there exists a collection of about 700 subway cars, over 80 tanks and personnel carriers, some tugboats and barges, and tons of ballasted truck tires that cover about 1.3 square miles of a booming underwater ecology. The area is available for diving seasonally and is as fulfilling as underwater adventures get.

Key Largo

The Dive Capital of the World is home to shallow reefs and deep wrecks. There’s diving here for all ages and skill levels. It is easily among the best artificial reefs for its pristine waters, storybook ecosystem and the poignant Christ of the Abyss underwater statue.

Leisure Pro Staff

Leisure Pro Staff

Marketing Director for LeisurePro