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Red Anchor: A Maritime Memorial
A towering tribute to lost seafarers, the Red Anchor offers a glimpse into Aruba's maritime history and a stunning photo opportunity.
The Red Anchor in San Nicolas, Aruba, is a prominent historical landmark and memorial dedicated to seamen who lost their lives at sea. This large, bright red anchor stands as a symbol of the island's rich maritime past and offers a picturesque spot for visitors.
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A brief summary to Red Anchor
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
C4MF+M78, San Nicolas, San Nicolas North, AW
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Getting There
Walking
From the San Nicolas bus terminal, walk east on the main street until you reach Route 4. Turn left and continue for about 1 kilometer. The Red Anchor will be visible at the T-junction to Baby Beach. The walk is approximately 45 minutes. Remember to wear sunscreen and bring water.
Public Transport
From Oranjestad, take the Arubus to San Nicolas. The bus departs every 30 minutes and costs $3 USD. From the San Nicolas bus terminal, you can take a taxi or walk to the Red Anchor. Walking from the terminal to the Red Anchor takes approximately 45 minutes.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in San Nicolas. A taxi from the San Nicolas bus terminal to the Red Anchor is a short ride, costing approximately $11.1 USD for the starting price, plus $2.5 USD per KM. The ride is about 5 minutes. Taxis in Aruba do not have meters; rates are fixed and should be checked in advance.
Local tips
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Combine your visit to the Red Anchor with a trip to nearby Baby Beach for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing.
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Explore the street art and murals in San Nicolas, known as Aruba's cultural capital, just a short drive from the Red Anchor.
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Visit Charlie's Bar in San Nicolas, an iconic establishment with a rich history and eclectic decor.
Discover more about Red Anchor
The Red Anchor, located at the entrance to the former Lago Colony in San Nicolas, Aruba, is a striking monument with a mysterious past. Dedicated in 1985, it serves as a memorial to all seamen lost at sea. The anchor itself weighs 21,772 kilos and measures approximately 10 feet 6 inches wide and 15 feet 6 inches tall.
There are a couple of stories regarding the anchor's origin. One suggests it was lost by a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) during rough weather. Another tale claims a tanker accidentally lifted it near Aruba's inner harbor but had to release it due to tangled chains. Regardless of its exact history, the anchor was adopted as a monument thanks to the vision of three men and Charlie Brouns Jr., owner of Charlie's Bar.
Today, the Red Anchor is a popular photo spot and a reminder of San Nicolas's vibrant history as an oil refinery town. The Valero Aruba Refinery restored the anchor in 2005 in memory of Charlie Brouns Jr. The bright red color contrasts beautifully with the turquoise Caribbean Sea, making it a must-see landmark for those exploring Aruba's southern coast.
A brief summary to Red Anchor
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