Antilla Shipwreck Aruba

Antilla Shipwreck Aruba Snorkeling

Resting just off the northwest coast of Malmok Beach lies the SS Antilla, one of the most famous and captivating underwater attractions in the Caribbean. At a massive 400 feet (122 meters) long, this WWII German freighter is one of the largest intact shipwrecks in the region accessible to snorkelers.

Whether you are a history buff or a marine life enthusiast, swimming above the towering, coral encrusted hull of the Antilla is an snorkeling adventure that belongs on every Aruba travel itinerary.

Antilla Shipwrecks Aruba Snorkeling Tickets

Because the SS Antilla is located half a mile out in open ocean water, you cannot swim to it from the shore; booking a boat excursion ticket is essential to experience the wreck. Since this is one of the most popular ocean activities on the island, several reputable tour operators depart directly from the Palm Beach hotel strip daily.

Ticket prices generally range from $50 to $110+ USD per person, with variations depending on the excursion’s duration, dining options, and the overall vibe of the boat.

Antilla shipwreck aruba photos

Frequently Asked Questions about Aruba Shipwrecks.

How deep is the Antilla

The Antilla wreck rests at a maximum depth of about 18 meters (60 feet) lying tilted on its port side. Because it is a large vessel, parts of the upper hull and superstructure are much shallower, rising to within just a few meters of the surface, making it a very accessible site for both snorkelers and scuba divers.

What happened to the SS Antilla?

The SS Antilla was a German freigter that became an early casualty of World War ii. In May 1940, following the German invasion of the Netherlands, Dutch authorities in Aruba ordered the ship's seizure. To prevent the vessel from falling into Dutch hands, the German crew scuttled the ship themselves opening a the sea valves and setting fires on board. The ship sank off the coast of Malmok Beach, and its crew was subsequently taken into custody as prisoners of War.

How many famous shipwrecks are there in Aruba?

While Aruba is surrounded by waters containing dozens of wrecks and historical artifacts, there are over tem notable diveable shipwrecks that are popular with tourists and divers. These include a mix of Wolrd War ii casualties, purposefully sunk artificial reefs, and older historical vessels.

What ate the top 3 most famous shipwrecks?

SS Antilla, SS Pedernales, and Jan Sea.

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