Merle Liivand: The Guinness World Record Eco-Mermaid Champion Driving Ocean Conservation

From the serene waters off Estonia to the vibrant shores of Miami Beach, Merle Liivand has carved an extraordinary path as a competitive swimmer, model, and eco-preneur. Known globally as a Guinness World Record-holding eco-mermaid, Merle combines her passion for endurance monofin swims with a resolute commitment to marine pollution awareness and ocean conservation. Through daring marathon swims and innovative collaborations, she brings environmental stewardship to the forefront of public consciousness.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Purpose

Merle’s story is one of resilience and inspiration—a tale of an athlete who swims not only for sport but to amplify the urgent call for protecting our oceans. Her marathon swims using a monofin, a single fin worn on both feet that mimics mermaid propulsion, reimagine endurance swimming while spotlighting the critical threats facing marine ecosystems. Her remarkable ability to glide through open water for impressive distances exemplifies both physical prowess and environmental advocacy.

Record-Breaking Feats that Make Waves

Merle holds multiple Guinness World Records for the longest monofin swims, setting new benchmarks with every challenge she undertakes. Her most notable swims took place along the Miami Beach coastline:

• 42.2 kilometers (26.22 miles) in just under 12 hours (May 2022)
• 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) in over 9 hours (April 2021)
• Previous milestones include 20.6 kilometers in 2020 and 10 kilometers in 2019

These efforts go beyond athleticism—each swim is a powerful statement against marine pollution and climate-related threats such as coral reef degradation.

Championing Ocean Health Through Creative Collaboration

Merle’s eco-mermaid identity transcends sport, intertwining art, science, and community engagement. A pivotal highlight is her involvement with The ReefLine, Miami’s iconic submerged sculpture park that doubles as a living reef restoration project. Through underwater marathons alongside fellow eco-mermaids, she cultivates awareness about marine biodiversity and sustainable tourism.

Working closely with local organizations like @VisitMiami and participating in campaigns such as #FindYourMiami, Merle brings snorkelers to explore public-access underwater trails. These immersive experiences promote education about coral restoration, particularly through installations like Leandro Erlich’s Concrete Coral, seeded with thousands of corals to help replenish fragile ecosystems.

Leading with Purpose: Merle’s Roles and Expertise

Eco-Mermaid & Environmental Advocate

Since 2019, Merle has pioneered a unique style of endurance swimming that eschews arm movement in favor of monofin propulsion—a technique that captivates audiences while emphasizing the urgent need to combat ocean pollution. Through public events, grassroots initiatives, and high-profile partnerships, she drives community involvement in protecting the marine environment.

Competitive Swimmer & Model

Her global presence as a competitive swimmer showcases her mermaid-style propulsion expertise in demanding open-water conditions. Merle combines athletic discipline with a modeled public persona that amplifies her eco-preneurial mission.

Key Skills and Contributions

• Specialist in endurance and monofin swimming techniques
• Advocate for marine conservation and sustainability
• Ambassador for eco-tourism, promoting responsible ocean interactions
• Engaging public speaker and influencer aligned with environmental initiatives
• Experienced snorkel guide and marine ecosystem navigator

Education and Credentials

Merle is recognized internationally as a Guinness World Record holder for the farthest monofin swim completed and continues to dedicate herself as an aquapreneur focused on ocean stewardship. Her work blends competitive swimming prowess with groundbreaking eco-awareness campaigns that inspire change.

Connect with Merle

Originating from Estonia and now based in Miami Beach, Merle invites you to join her journey in protecting our oceans. Engage with her inspiring work and reach out on Instagram at Aquamjerle to learn more about upcoming events, eco-initiatives, and ways to support marine conservation.

Ready to dive deeper into ocean conservation? Follow Merle’s trail and become part of the movement making waves for a cleaner, healthier sea.