Antilla Shipwreck - a rusted ship sitting in the middle of the ocean
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Antilla Shipwreck

4.8
·5 reviews·Noord, Aruba

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning outings

Calmer waters, better visibility

CrowdMedium
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Antilla Shipwreck - a rusted ship sitting in the middle of the ocean

Antilla Shipwreck

Best Time

Morning outings

Calmer waters, better visibility

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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!

4.8
(5 reviews)

"Absolutely amazing experience, breathtaking views of the Antilla shipwreck and marine life!"

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TIP

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:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

SS Antilla Shipwreck

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

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!

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Planning Your Visit

Snorkel Smart for the Antilla

The Antilla shipwreck is a popular snorkeling spot, but conditions can be choppy with currents. Book a reputable tour for the best experience, especially if you're an adult with snorkeling experience. Morning outings are often recommended for calmer waters. Reddit

Respect the 'Ghost Ship'

Known as the 'Ghost Ship,' the Antilla is a WWII German freighter. While it's a fascinating dive and snorkel site, remember it's a historical artifact. Avoid touching or disturbing the wreck to preserve it for future visitors. Instagram

Best Times

When
Morning outings
Why
Calmer waters, better visibility
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you ever heard of Makauwahi Cave Reserve? 📌 Save this video for your trip to Kauai! This is a must-do for all ages, and the best part? It’s free! 🙌
 🌊 Start at Shipwreck Beach – Relax, swim, or explore the cliffs nearby. It’s the perfect way to kick off your day! 🥾 Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail – an easy, scenic walk with ocean views. 🌴 Discover Makauwahi Cave Reserve – Open daily from 1...
@travelwith.kri
18.1K likes • 274.8K views

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. Reddit :ticket:

Expect Choppy Waters

The wreck area can be windy with currents. Be prepared for a swim against it and potentially choppy water. Instagram :ocean:

Bucket list moment unlocked 🌊🐢 This graceful turtle led me straight toward the Antilla shipwreck in Aruba and it felt like the ocean itself was guiding me. Save this if Aruba is on your list ✈️ Share with your favorite travel buddy who’d dive in too! #arubatravel #bucketlistadventure #snorkelinglife #turtleencounter #islandvibesonly #underwatermagic #aruba #caribbean
wanderlust_traveldeals
3 likes • 16 views
📍 Aruba ~ Antilla shipwreck 🛥 The sunken World War II ship is offshore near the north end of Aruba. There is enough of the wreck visible from the surface for snorkelers and there is a good amount of fish to see too. Just know that choppy water and wind are common out at the wreck and there is normally a current you must swim against, so don’t expect it to be flat water. 💦 . . #aruba #snorkeling...
wheredyougojen
54 likes • 602 views

Respect the Wreck

This is a historical site. Avoid touching or disturbing the Antilla shipwreck to preserve it. Instagram :pray:

Turtle Sightings!

You might get lucky and swim with graceful sea turtles near the wreck! Instagram :turtle:

Known as the "Ghost Ship" 🤿 While in Aruba, we took a snorkeling excursion to the German shipwreck of the SS Antilla. Story goes (short version): the ship was about to taken captive so the captain order the crew members to shore while he blew up the ship so the enemy couldn't have it. #gopro #shipwreck #explore #travelslp #travel #wanderlust #adventure #vacation #snorkeling #caribbean #aruba
t_the_travel_slp
0 likes • 185 views

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. Reddit :ticket:

Expect Choppy Waters

The wreck area can be windy with currents. Be prepared for a swim against it and potentially choppy water. Instagram :ocean:

Respect the Wreck

This is a historical site. Avoid touching or disturbing the Antilla shipwreck to preserve it. Instagram :pray:

Turtle Sightings!

You might get lucky and swim with graceful sea turtles near the wreck! Instagram :turtle:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(5 reviews)

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

Historic shipwreck exploration
Abundant marine life
Unique snorkeling/diving

What People Dislike

Choppy water and currents

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

No, the Antilla shipwreck is submerged offshore and can only be accessed by boat. Land-based viewing is not possible. Instagram

Tours range from larger catamarans offering a party atmosphere to smaller, more intimate boats focused on the snorkeling experience. Consider your priorities when choosing. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to book your Antilla shipwreck tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and preferred time. Reddit

Most tours include snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins), boat transportation, and often a guide. Some may include drinks or snacks. Reddit

While many tours are suitable for adults and experienced snorkelers, some may have minimum age requirements. Check with the tour operator. Reddit

Tours typically run in the morning and afternoon. Morning tours are often preferred for calmer waters. Specific hours depend on the tour provider. Reddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

You'll see the remains of the German freighter, with plenty of fish and marine life, including occasional sea turtle sightings. Instagram+1

Yes, the Antilla shipwreck is a popular dive site for certified divers, offering a more immersive experience than snorkeling. Instagram

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. Instagram

Snorkeling the Antilla can be challenging due to currents and choppy water. It's best for those with some snorkeling experience. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

An underwater camera or GoPro is ideal for capturing the marine life and wreck details. Some tours may offer drone photography opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, many boats offer great vantage points for photos of the shipwreck from above before you enter the water. Instagram

Generally, no specific restrictions apply to personal photography, but always be mindful of other visitors and tour guides. Instagram

Popular shots include the wreck itself, marine life like turtles, and people snorkeling or diving around the ship. Instagram+1

While sunny days offer the best light, you can still capture interesting shots on cloudy days, especially with the dramatic atmosphere of the shipwreck. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Antilla shipwreck is a fascinating site, it might be more suitable for families with older children or teenagers who are comfortable swimmers and snorkelers. The potential for choppy waters and currents means it's not ideal for very young children or those new to the water. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

To experience the Antilla shipwreck on a budget, look for tours that offer good value. Compare prices and what's included – some tours might be cheaper but offer less time at the wreck or fewer amenities. Reddit

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

A snorkeling or diving trip to the Antilla shipwreck can be a unique and memorable experience for couples. Opt for a smaller, more intimate tour for a romantic adventure, perhaps one that includes a sunset cruise or a stop at a secluded cove. Instagram

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

The SS Antilla was a German freighter that met its end during World War II. As Allied forces approached Aruba in 1940, the captain, to prevent the ship from falling into enemy hands, ordered his crew to abandon ship and then scuttled it himself. The ship sank just off the coast, becoming a silent sentinel of the past. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Snorkeling and Diving the Antilla

The Antilla shipwreck is accessible to both snorkelers and divers, though the experience differs. For snorkelers, much of the ship's structure is visible from the surface, allowing you to see the main deck and some of the upper portions. The clear, warm waters of Aruba make for excellent visibility, revealing schools of fish darting through the wreck. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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