Background

Antilla Shipwreck: Aruba's Underwater Ghost Ship

Explore Aruba's famed Antilla Shipwreck: a WWII German freighter turned vibrant underwater ecosystem, perfect for diving and snorkeling adventures.

4.7

The Antilla Shipwreck, resting off the coast of Aruba near Malmok Beach, is a German cargo ship scuttled during World War II and is now one of the Caribbean's largest and most popular dive sites. Divers and snorkelers explore its coral-encrusted remains, encountering diverse marine life in this unique underwater environment.

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

Local tips

  • Book a guided dive or snorkeling tour with a reputable operator for a safe and informative experience.
  • Consider bringing an underwater camera to capture the unique marine life and the haunting beauty of the wreck.
  • Be aware of currents and potential choppy waters, especially when snorkeling.
  • Check the visibility conditions before you go, as they can vary.
  • Respect the wreck and the marine environment; avoid touching or removing anything.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take the Arubus L10A or L10B line towards Arashi or Palm Beach. These buses run frequently throughout the day, approximately every 20 minutes. Get off near Malmok Beach. From there, arrange a boat tour to the Antilla Shipwreck with a local operator. A round-trip bus ticket costs $5.00 USD.

  • Taxi

    From Oranjestad or the hotel area, take a taxi to Malmok Beach. From there, arrange a boat tour to the Antilla Shipwreck with a local operator. Taxi fares from the hotel area to Malmok Beach typically range from $18 to $26 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.

Unlock the Best of Antilla Shipwreck

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Antilla Shipwreck

The Antilla Shipwreck, often called the 'Ghost Ship' by locals, is a German cargo ship that met its end off the coast of Aruba during World War II. Launched in Hamburg in 1939 as a Hamburg America Line cargo ship, the SS Antilla was designed for trade between Germany and the Caribbean. In May 1940, with the German invasion of the Netherlands, the Dutch government sought to confiscate the ship. To prevent this, the German crew, under Captain Ferdinand Schmidt, scuttled the Antilla by opening the seacocks and setting fire to the ship. The ship burned for days before sinking to its current resting place. Today, the Antilla lies on its port side in Malmok Bay, at a depth of approximately 60 feet (18 meters). The wreck stretches about 400 feet (130 meters) in length and has become a haven for marine life. Corals, tube sponges, and various fish species, including moray eels, blue tang, and barracudas, have colonized the wreck. The Antilla is a popular site for both diving and snorkeling. Numerous diving operators offer guided tours, catering to both novice and experienced divers. Snorkelers can also catch glimpses of the ship's massive hull from the surface. Although storm damage has caused parts of the wreck to collapse over the years, much of the ship remains intact, offering an awe-inspiring underwater experience.

Popular Experiences near Antilla Shipwreck

Popular Hotels near Antilla Shipwreck

Select Currency