Antilla Shipwreck: Aruba's Underwater Ghost Ship
Explore the Caribbean's largest shipwreck, a WWII German freighter teeming with marine life off Aruba's coast. A diver's and snorkeler's paradise!
Resting just off the coast of Aruba, the Antilla Shipwreck is a captivating dive site with a rich history. This German freighter, built in 1939, met its demise in 1940 when its crew scuttled the ship rather than surrender it to Dutch forces after Germany invaded the Netherlands. The Antilla, often called the 'Ghost Ship' by locals, now lies on its port side, a sprawling underwater playground for divers and snorkelers alike. The wreck is massive, stretching approximately 400 feet (130 meters) in length, making it the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean. Over the decades, the Antilla has transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, teeming with marine life. Divers can explore its eerie corridors, once bustling cargo holds, and the ship's skeletal remains, now adorned with colorful coral, tube sponges, and anemones. Expect to encounter barracudas, groupers, moray eels, stingrays, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. The Antilla is accessible to divers of all skill levels, with depths ranging from 15 feet (5 meters) to 55 feet (17 meters). Snorkelers can also enjoy glimpses of the wreck from the surface, especially on calm days with good visibility. Numerous tour operators offer guided dives and snorkeling trips to the site, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience. Diving or snorkeling the Antilla is not just an underwater adventure; it's a journey into Aruba's wartime past and a chance to witness the beauty of marine life reclaiming a piece of history.
Local tips
- Visibility is best in the late morning when the sun is high, enhancing the underwater views of the wreck.
- Consider a guided tour for the best experience, as local operators know the wreck well and can provide valuable insights.
- Bring an underwater camera to capture the stunning marine life and the eerie beauty of the shipwreck.
- Be mindful of currents, especially when snorkeling, and avoid swimming too far from the tour boat.
- Respect the marine environment; avoid touching or disturbing the coral and marine life inhabiting the wreck.
A brief summary to Antilla Shipwreck
- Opal 58, Noord, AW
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Boat Tour
The most common and recommended way to reach the Antilla Shipwreck is by booking a snorkeling or diving tour. Numerous operators depart from Palm Beach and Arashi Beach. These tours typically include transportation to the dive site, snorkeling or diving gear, and guidance from experienced professionals. Prices range from $60-$125 depending on the tour and inclusions.
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Taxi/Ride-Share to Beach, then Boat Tour
If starting from Oranjestad, take a taxi or ride-share to either Palm Beach or Malmok Beach. From Palm Beach, board a catamaran tour to the Antilla Shipwreck. Taxi fares from Oranjestad to Palm Beach typically cost around $20-$30. Catamaran tours range from $60-$90, including snorkeling gear, drinks, and lunch. Parking at the beach is free.
