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Kappel Shipwreck: Aruba's Underwater Tugboat Adventure

Explore Aruba's Kappel Shipwreck: a vibrant underwater ecosystem perfect for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts of all levels.

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The Kappel Shipwreck, a small tugboat intentionally sunk in 2009 near Mangel Halto, Aruba, offers an accessible dive and snorkel site teeming with marine life. It's a relatively recent wreck, allowing divers and snorkelers to witness the early stages of a vibrant reef ecosystem.

A brief summary to Kappel Shipwreck

  • 21 m, Spaans Lagoenweg 33, Savaneta, AW

Local tips

  • Bring your own snorkeling gear, as rentals may be limited in the immediate area.
  • Consider the best times for snorkeling, as water clarity can vary throughout the day.
  • Wear comfortable shoes if walking from nearby locations, and carry water, especially under the sun.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are staying near Spaans Lagoenweg in Savaneta, the Kappel Shipwreck is accessible by foot. From Spaans Lagoenweg 33, walk towards the coast. The shipwreck is located just offshore from Mangel Halto Beach, approximately a 2-minute walk. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take the Arubus (Aruba's public bus) to Savaneta. The bus departs from the central bus station at Caya G.F. Betico Croes - Pasteurstraat every 20 minutes. The ride to Savaneta takes approximately 13 minutes. From the Savaneta bus stop, walk to Spaans Lagoenweg and then towards Mangel Halto Beach, where the shipwreck is located just offshore. A single trip on Arubus costs $2.60 USD.

  • Taxi

    From the Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) or Oranjestad, a taxi is a direct way to reach the Kappel Shipwreck. Taxis are readily available at the airport and in Oranjestad. Ask the driver to take you to Mangel Halto Beach in Savaneta (Spaans Lagoenweg 33). The taxi fare from the airport to Savaneta is approximately $16-$37 USD. The journey takes around 13-21 minutes, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Kappel Shipwreck

The Kappel Shipwreck, resting just off the coast of Savaneta, Aruba, is a popular destination for divers and snorkelers seeking an easily accessible underwater adventure. Intentionally sunk in November 2009, the 51-foot Danish cargo ship has quickly become a haven for marine life, offering a unique glimpse into how artificial reefs develop. Located near the vibrant Mangel Halto reef, the Kappel sits in a sandy bottom at a depth of approximately 35-45 feet (12-15 meters), making it an ideal site for both novice and experienced divers and snorkelers. The clear Aruban waters provide excellent visibility, allowing visitors to observe the wreck and its inhabitants from the surface. While the Kappel may not be as large or dramatic as some of Aruba's other wrecks, its accessibility and the abundance of marine life make it a worthwhile destination. Divers can explore the ship's structure, swim through the cabin, and observe the various species that have made the wreck their home. Snorkelers can also enjoy the site, as the top of the wreck is visible from the surface. Over time, the Kappel has attracted a diverse array of marine life, including schools of tropical fish, moray eels, arrow crabs, and sea turtles. Coral and sponges have begun to colonize the wreck, adding to its beauty and providing shelter for various invertebrates. The Kappel Shipwreck offers a fascinating look at how nature reclaims man-made objects, creating a unique and thriving underwater ecosystem.

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