Sail a 70-foot catamaran to the wreck of the Antilla, a 400-foot German freighter scuttled in 1940 and now the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean - so big its rusted hull breaks the surface. Snorkel over the wreck's coral-encrusted ribs amid clouds of tropical fish, then drift the calm turquoise reefs of Boca Catalina and Malmok. The combination of a genuine WWII wreck, glassy water and open bar makes this Aruba's signature on-the-water day.
What to expect
The Antilla sits in shallow, sheltered water, so the snorkeling is easy and forgiving even for beginners while still feeling like a real wreck dive from the surface. Crews are polished, the open bar pours freely (pace yourself before swimming), and the catamaran has freshwater rinse, shade and a slide. Three snorkel stops give variety from wreck to reef. Seas are typically calm on the leeward west coast.
Ships sell catamaran shipwreck snorkel sails at roughly USD 120-150 per person for the same vessel class and route. De Palm direct is meaningfully cheaper and is itself a major cruise-tour contractor, so you are booking the actual operator, not a reseller. Book direct.
Good to know
Check in 15-45 minutes early at Coconuts Retail Store on De Palm Pier - a 10-15 minute, ~USD 10 taxi from the cruise terminal, or walkable along the waterfront if you have time. Take the morning sail for the better wreck light, lunch, and a safe gap before all-aboard. Bring reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory) and an underwater camera; gear is provided.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Oranjestad — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.