Antilla Shipwreck: Aruba's Underwater Ghost Ship

Resting silently beneath the turquoise waters off the coast of Aruba, the Antilla shipwreck stands as a testament to the island's rich maritime history and enduring allure. Once a German cargo ship, the SS Antilla met its fate during World War II when it was scuttled by its own crew to prevent it from falling into enemy hands. In early May 1940, the German freighter Antilla anchored in the waters of Aruba. On May 10th, the Germans invaded the Netherlands. The Dutch Army surrendered four days later. Holland was now at war with Germany, and Aruba automatically became enemy territory to the Germans. The Dutch government ordered the seizure of all German ships in the Dutch Antilles. At 0310 hrs on May 10th, Dutch Marines approached Antilla to board her, but the captain refused. During the night, the captain ordered his crew to set the ship ablaze and open the valves, letting seawater into the lower decks. The ship was soon engulfed in flames and listing to port. Today, this majestic Aruba shipwreck serves as a captivating underwater playground, teeming with vibrant marine life and haunting remnants of its storied past. Divers from around the world flock to explore its sprawling remains, adorned with colorful corals and inhabited by curious tropical fish. The Antilla is the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean, stretching approximately 400 feet in length. The Antilla lies on its port side in Malmok Bay, Aruba, in up to 60 feet (18 m) of water. By 1953, storm damage had broken the wreck in two amidships. The wreck is now home to a variety of marine life, including corals, tube sponges, lobsters, hawksbill sea turtles, moray eels, and blue tang. The Antilla is a popular dive site for divers of all experience levels. Snorkeling above the wreck is also a popular activity, offering glimpses of the massive hull and the marine life.