Antilla Shipwreck
Explore the eerie 'Ghost Ship,' a sunken WWII German freighter teeming with marine life. A must-do snorkel and dive site in Aruba!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer waters, better visibility
Antilla Shipwreck
Best Time
Calmer waters, better visibility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the eerie 'Ghost Ship,' a sunken WWII German freighter teeming with marine life. A must-do snorkel and dive site in Aruba!
"Absolutely amazing experience, breathtaking views of the Antilla shipwreck and marine life!"
Choose Your Tour Wisely
For the best Antilla wreck snorkel, compare options like Shore Excursions, Red Sail Sports, and Jolly Pirate. Focus on snorkeling quality. :ticket:
Expect Choppy Waters
The wreck area can be windy with currents. Be prepared for a swim against it and potentially choppy water. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

SS Antilla Shipwreck
Offshore near the north end of Aruba
Explore the eerie 'Ghost Ship,' a sunken WWII German freighter teeming with marine life. Visible from the surface for snorkelers!

Marine Life Encounters
Around the Antilla shipwreck
Swim alongside graceful sea turtles and discover a vibrant array of fish that call the wreck their home. A true underwater spectacle!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Snorkel Smart for the Antilla
Respect the 'Ghost Ship'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Tour Wisely
For the best Antilla wreck snorkel, compare options like Shore Excursions, Red Sail Sports, and Jolly Pirate. Focus on snorkeling quality.
:ticket:Expect Choppy Waters
The wreck area can be windy with currents. Be prepared for a swim against it and potentially choppy water.
:ocean:Respect the Wreck
This is a historical site. Avoid touching or disturbing the Antilla shipwreck to preserve it.
:pray:Turtle Sightings!
You might get lucky and swim with graceful sea turtles near the wreck!
:turtle:Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Tour Wisely
For the best Antilla wreck snorkel, compare options like Shore Excursions, Red Sail Sports, and Jolly Pirate. Focus on snorkeling quality.
:ticket:Expect Choppy Waters
The wreck area can be windy with currents. Be prepared for a swim against it and potentially choppy water.
:ocean:Respect the Wreck
This is a historical site. Avoid touching or disturbing the Antilla shipwreck to preserve it.
:pray:Turtle Sightings!
You might get lucky and swim with graceful sea turtles near the wreck!
:turtle:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Antilla shipwreck, calling it an 'absolutely amazing experience' and 'breathtaking.' The chance to snorkel over a historic WWII vessel and encounter marine life, including turtles, is a major highlight. Some note that choppy waters and currents can be a factor, suggesting tours are the best way to experience it.
"Absolutely amazing experience"
Rachael Mawer
"Wonderful..."
gustavo quiroga
"Breathtaking."
nico terpstra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Antilla shipwreck is best accessed via boat tour. Several companies offer snorkeling excursions that depart from various points in Aruba, often from the Palm Beach or Eagle Beach areas.
While the shipwreck is offshore, parts of it are visible from the surface, making it accessible for snorkelers. It's not typically visible from the main beaches.
Booking a dedicated snorkeling tour is highly recommended. These tours provide the necessary equipment, guidance, and transportation to the wreck site, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
No, the Antilla shipwreck is submerged offshore and can only be accessed by boat. Land-based viewing is not possible.
Tours range from larger catamarans offering a party atmosphere to smaller, more intimate boats focused on the snorkeling experience. Consider your priorities when choosing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices vary depending on the operator and duration, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100+ per person for a snorkeling excursion to the Antilla.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your Antilla shipwreck tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and preferred time.
Most tours include snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins), boat transportation, and often a guide. Some may include drinks or snacks.
While many tours are suitable for adults and experienced snorkelers, some may have minimum age requirements. Check with the tour operator.
Tours typically run in the morning and afternoon. Morning tours are often preferred for calmer waters. Specific hours depend on the tour provider.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You'll see the remains of the German freighter, with plenty of fish and marine life, including occasional sea turtle sightings.
Yes, the Antilla shipwreck is a popular dive site for certified divers, offering a more immersive experience than snorkeling.
Aruba's waters are generally warm year-round, typically ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C), making it comfortable for snorkeling. :ocean:
Wear a swimsuit and consider a rash guard for sun protection. Many people also wear reef-safe sunscreen.
Snorkeling the Antilla can be challenging due to currents and choppy water. It's best for those with some snorkeling experience.
📸 📸 Photography
An underwater camera or GoPro is ideal for capturing the marine life and wreck details. Some tours may offer drone photography opportunities.
Yes, many boats offer great vantage points for photos of the shipwreck from above before you enter the water.
Generally, no specific restrictions apply to personal photography, but always be mindful of other visitors and tour guides.
Popular shots include the wreck itself, marine life like turtles, and people snorkeling or diving around the ship.
While sunny days offer the best light, you can still capture interesting shots on cloudy days, especially with the dramatic atmosphere of the shipwreck.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family is keen on marine life, consider tours that emphasize calm waters and offer a good chance of seeing fish and possibly turtles. Always prioritize tours with experienced guides who can ensure safety and provide an engaging experience for younger adventurers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider booking directly with smaller, local operators rather than larger, international companies, as they may offer more competitive pricing. Packing your own reusable water bottle and snacks can also help save money on tour add-ons. :moneybag:
💑 Couples
Sharing the wonder of exploring a historic sunken vessel and encountering marine life together creates lasting memories. Consider a tour that offers a bit more relaxation and personalized attention. :heart:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the SS Antilla
Over the decades, the Antilla has become a significant historical artifact and a thriving artificial reef. Its skeletal remains now provide shelter and a habitat for a diverse array of marine life, transforming a wartime vessel into a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Today, the Antilla is one of the most popular dive and snorkel sites in the Caribbean, drawing visitors eager to explore its submerged structure and witness the marine life that has made it their home. Its story adds a layer of intrigue to the underwater adventure.
Snorkeling and Diving the Antilla
Diving the Antilla offers a more intimate exploration. Certified divers can descend to explore the ship's interior, including cargo holds and the engine room, though caution is advised due to the wreck's age and potential hazards. The wreck is home to a variety of marine species, including barracuda, snapper, and even the occasional sea turtle, making it a rewarding dive.
When planning your visit, consider booking a tour that caters to your activity level. Some tours focus on a relaxed snorkeling experience, while others are geared towards divers. Morning tours are often recommended for calmer seas and better visibility, enhancing your underwater adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit