Back in the day, the serene waters of the Caribbean, stretching from the Gulf of Mexico through the Florida Peninsula to the Lesser Antilles, saw all kinds of ships. Some sought new lands to conquer, like the Spanish explorers, while others pursued treasures that belonged to other men. However, many vessels sank due to various misfortunes and now serve either as habitats for marine life or as tourist attractions. Such is the case of the Antilla shipwreck, whose remains can be found off Aruba’s northwest coast.
Mysterious yet captivating, these are the best words to describe the Antilla shipwreck. Undeniably, it is the most popular wreck in Aruba. Its fame comes not only from being one of the largest in the region and a top spot for diving and snorkeling, but also from its intriguing history. Curious about how this colossal 400-foot-long construction ended up near Palm Beach and Malmok Beach? Get ready to plunge into the island’s maritime past (and to find out how to witness it in person).
Aruba’s natural wonders: from hidden pools to mystical caves
Aruba’s most famous shipwreck
Remnants of the Antilla shipwreck in Aruba
According to an article published by Visit Aruba, this ship was completed in mid-1939 in Finkenwarder, one of Hamburg’s seven quarters. The Hamburg Amerikanische Packetfahrt Actien Gesellschaft (HAPAG for its acronym in German) commissioned the project. Founded in 1847, this shipping company specialized in transporting all kinds of goods and passengers across the Atlantic Ocean.
A few months after the SS Antilla’s finalization, World War II began. There are those who claim that in 1940, the Germans used the ship to send supplies to their submarines waiting near Dutch-controlled territories in the Caribbean to launch attacks. However, official records do not support this theory. The most accepted version is that, during the war, with Holland seen as an enemy, the German crew aboard the ship deliberately sank the Antilla to prevent its confiscation.
A report written that same year states that the ship went down after the crew, led by Captain Ferdinand Schmidt, opened a series of valves. This supposedly caused a fire that only affected its superstructure. The waves then split its remains. Today, it lies at a depth of about 60 feet, and although it has been under the sea for around 80 years, it is still easy to spot from above.
Where is Aruba? Understanding Its Geographic Layout
How can I visit the Antilla shipwreck?
In Aruba there are many expeditions that allow visitors to discover the beauty of the Antilla shipwreck. Credits: Kelly/Pexels
Over the years and with the development of the tourist industry in Aruba, the Antilla shipwreck quickly became one of its most interesting tourist attractions. The most common activities that revolve around this spot are diving and snorkeling and there are plenty of tour operators that offer adventures of a few hours to get to know this piece of history and the marine life that has taken over every one of its corners.
Seabob Aruba offers a two-and-a-half-hour tour for $115. It begins at Boca Catalina and passes by Tres Trapi and Malmok Beach. The tour continues through a natural habitat where turtles nest. The highlight is, of course, the Antilla Shipwreck. Once there, participants can spend 90 minutes in the water. The last spot is a small coral reef before returning to the starting point.
Pelican Aruba, on the other hand, offers a sailing + snorkeling cruise with two stops, one of which is the Antilla Shipwreck. This option costs $62 per adult (ages 12 and up) and also lasts two and a half hours. In addition to enjoying snacks and unlimited drinks, tourists can use the assistance of professional guides and put on the necessary equipment to admire the colorful fishes that reside along Aruba’s shore.
Stay near Aruba’s best attractions
Ocean Z Boutique Hotel features 13 comfortable rooms that are perfect for resting after a day at the water. Credits: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel
Both tour alternatives are equally attractive and take place near the island’s tourist area. In that zone you will also find a wide variety of hotels to choose from. Ocean Z stands out as the best boutique hotel, according to Tripadvisor users. We invite you to explore our suites by clicking the button below:
0 Comments