In 1883, the original settlement was completely destroyed by a series of tsunamis generated by the eruption of the Krakatoa volcano in the Sunda Strait.

Approximately 2,700 people lost their lives, including virtually all of the town's inhabitants at that time.

A new LPG jetty handles liquid gases for distribution in Banten province, tankage has been built at Merak.

[3] The ageing ferry fleet and poor supporting infrastructure are major restrictions on the port's efficiency.

[5] It is not unusual for trucks to bank up for 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) or more from the port on the Jakarta-Merak Toll Road and be held up in queues for two or three days.