It was briefly used to house troops but was converted back into a hospital in 1871. During the course of the 19th century, some incoming mail was fumigated and disinfected at the Profumo Office of the hospital to prevent the spread of diseases. During World War II, when Malta was under siege, Manoel Island and its fort were used as a naval base by the Royal Navy's 10th Submarine Flotilla, at which time it was referred to as "HMS Talbot" or "HMS Phœnicia". The Chapel of St. Anthony was destroyed following a direct hit by Luftwaffe bombers in March 1942. The island and the fort remained derelict for many years and Fort Manoel and the Lazzaretto were both vandalized. Present day Yacht Marina and Yacht Yard Manoel Island currently houses a yacht yard and yacht marina. The yacht marina has been under new management since 2011, and it accommodates vessels up to 80 metres in length. It has a total of 350 berths. The yacht yard can accommodate yachts and catamarans of up to 50 metres in length and a displacement of 500 tons. The yard offers boat storage, berthing afloat, repairs and complete refits. Duck Village For several years, Manoel Island has housed a quaint, informal sanctuary for ducks and other waterfowl near the bridge connecting the island with the main island. It was created and is maintained by a local volunteer, and funded entirely by private donations. The site has been demolished in 2021, due to several complaints by residents and activists. References Islands of Malta Uninhabited islands of Malta Gżira