Red Anchor: A Seafaring Memorial

Located at the entrance to Gate 6 of the former Lago Colony, near the 'T' junction to Baby Beach, the Red Anchor is a striking monument with a mysterious past. Weighing 21,772 kilos and standing 15 feet 6 inches tall, the anchor's bright red color makes it impossible to miss against the turquoise waters and clear skies.The anchor's origins are debated, with stories suggesting it was lost by a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) during rough weather or dropped by a Korean tanker attempting to lift another anchor. Regardless of its true origin, the anchor was repurposed in the early 1980s as a memorial to seamen who perished at sea. Charlie Brouns Jr., owner of Charlie's Bar in San Nicolas, played a key role in relocating the anchor to its current location, where it was dedicated on March 31, 1985, coinciding with the closing of the Lago Oil Refinery.Over the years, the Red Anchor has become one of Aruba's most photographed landmarks. It underwent restoration in 2005, with Valero Aruba Refinery sandblasting, repainting, and adding a concrete pad in memory of Charlie Brouns Jr. Today, the Red Anchor serves as a reminder of San Nicolas's vibrant history and maritime importance, inviting visitors to reflect on Aruba's seafaring traditions.