Antilla Shipwreck Seabob Tour

The Antilla Shipwreck Seabob Tour in Oranjestad, Aruba, offers an exciting way to see one of the island’s most iconic sights—an impressive WWII-era shipwreck that’s now a bustling home for sea creatures. For $120 per person, roughly 2.5 hours long, this tour combines the thrill of riding a personal underwater scooter with the chance to explore Aruba’s vibrant marine life. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable staff, you’ll experience the wreck from a new perspective—flying over coral reefs and gliding alongside turtles, fish, and other sea life.

Two things we love about this experience are the ease of use of the Seabob—a jet-powered scooter that makes exploring underwater effortless—and the small group size, which keeps the adventure intimate and relaxed. Plus, we appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of transportation. One possible consideration is that if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a slower, more traditional snorkel, the rapid pace and underwater motor might be a bit challenging.

This tour suits travelers who crave a blend of adventure and comfort, especially those eager to see the shipwreck up close without needing to scuba dive. It’s perfect for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone wanting a more dynamic way to explore Aruba’s underwater scene with a guide to point out the best sights.

Key Points

• Unique experience combining snorkeling and an underwater scooter for a faster, closer view of marine life
• Small group size (max 15) for personalized attention and fewer crowds
• All equipment included—Seabob, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and restroom facilities
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Highly rated guides make the experience informative and fun based on extensive reviews
• Affordable price given the length, personal attention, and access to the famous shipwreck

Exploring Aruba’s Antilla Shipwreck with a Seabob

The Antilla shipwreck is one of Aruba’s most photographed underwater attractions. Sitting about 600 meters from shore, just off Arashi Beach, it’s a relic from the 1940s, now colonized by colorful coral, sea sponges, and an array of marine life. This tour offers a chance to explore this historic wreck without the need for scuba gear, thanks to the Seabob—a sleek, jet-powered underwater scooter.

This activity is around 2 hours and 30 minutes long, and for a modest $120, it includes everything you need: hotel pickup, use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and the guidance of a trained professional. Many reviews praise the guides (named Tony, Alex, Richard, among others) for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or cruise port, whisking you to the starting point at Adventure Sports Aruba. Here, you’re introduced to the Seabob, which resembles a streamlined, handheld jetpack for water. The guides provide a quick safety briefing and tutorial, making the operation straightforward—even if you’ve never used one before. As several reviewers have noted, the Seabobs are easy to learn and super fun.

Once ready, you’ll set out to the Antilla wreck, cruising over reefs and marine life at a pace that lets you appreciate the vivid underwater scenery. The Seabob allows you to go deeper and faster than traditional snorkeling, revealing more details of the ship’s structure—something many find exhilarating. Several reviewers mention how seeing the shipwreck from this perspective feels like flying. You might spot turtles, schools of colorful fish, lobsters, and even octopuses, with guides often pointing out various creatures and seabird sightings along the way.

Other Highlights Along the Coast

The tour isn’t just about the wreck. Before and after the main activity, you’ll visit several other snorkeling spots, including Boca Catalina Beach, where you can observe angelfish, butterflyfish, and squid. At Tres Trapi Steps, you’ll see hundreds of red cushion starfish covering the seabed—an Instagram-worthy scene. The final stop is at Arashi Beach, a perfect place to relax, enjoy a drink, and reflect on the adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Several travelers highlight that the guides go above and beyond, often pointing out wildlife and sharing local insights that enrich the experience. One reviewer raved, “Our guide did an excellent job! We saw turtles and various fish, and the Seabobs were very fun.” The small group size ensures you get plenty of attention and space to explore comfortably, with a maximum of 15 participants.

On top of that, the cost is quite reasonable considering the duration, equipment, and expert guidance. Many say it’s “well worth the price,” especially since you get to see the shipwreck up close without needing scuba certification.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers mention that the Seabob can be a bit uncomfortable for some, especially if you have chest or arm issues. One person advised that it’s not recommended if you’re weak or recovering from heart surgery. Also, those prone to motion sickness might find the rapid movement on the water a little challenging. It’s worth noting that the total water time can feel rushed if the weather is rough or seas are choppy, but guides try to maximize your time at the wreck.

Who Should Try This?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a unique, active experience and don’t mind a bit of motion. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers seeking a fun way to see Aruba’s marine environment. If you’re after a relaxing, traditional snorkel, this might not be your best fit, but if you love gadgets and close-up marine encounters, you’ll probably love every minute.

Additional Stops and Overall Experience

The tour’s itinerary is carefully curated to balance adventure with relaxation. The stops at Boca Catalina and Tres Trapi are not just fillers—they’re prime spots to see vibrant coral, starfish, and a lively fish community. The red cushion starfish at Tres Trapi, in particular, impress visitors with their abundance and vivid color.

The hotel pickup and drop-off service is a real bonus, especially if you’re staying at a hotel that’s not walking distance from the beach. Plus, use of snorkeling gear and bottled water keeps you comfortable during the trip.

Authentic Encounters with Marine Life

Many reviews mention that guides actively point out wildlife and share interesting facts. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was humorous and very informative,” making the experience both fun and educational. Seeing turtles swimming nearby, fish darting through the reefs, and starfish sprawling on the seabed makes for memorable moments.

The Value of This Tour

While $120 may seem like a splash for a short activity, the value is clear when you consider the access to the wreck, the personalized attention, and the experience of flying underwater with minimal effort. It’s an excellent introduction to Aruba’s marine environment, especially for those who want more than just snorkeling from the surface.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for an active, unique way to explore Aruba’s popular shipwreck and surrounding reefs, this Antilla Shipwreck Seabob Tour hits the mark. The professional guides, small group size, and all-inclusive setup make it a hassle-free, enjoyable adventure. It’s especially suited for first-time snorkelers, families, or anyone eager to combine water sports with sightseeing.

While it might not be the best choice if you prefer leisurely floating or have specific health concerns, most participants find it exhilarating and worthwhile. The ability to see more of the wreck and marine life in a short time makes this tour stand out from traditional snorkeling trips. Plus, many reviews emphasize how much fun they had—making it a highlight of their Aruba vacation.

In summary, for a balance of excitement and accessibility, with excellent guide support and the chance to fly over coral reefs, this tour offers great value. It’s one of those activities you’ll talk about long after you’ve returned home, especially if you love exploring the underwater world without the fuss of scuba gear.

FAQ Section

Is the Seabob difficult to operate?
Most reviewers say no; it’s quite easy to learn. Guides provide a quick tutorial, and many describe it as “super fun” and simple to control.

What should I wear?
Participants usually wear swimsuits or rash guards. Be mindful that sunscreen can burn your eyes—some recommend avoiding face sunscreen or using a suitable product.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and while some younger kids have enjoyed the experience, it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water and able to handle the activity.

How long do we actually spend in the water?
While the total experience lasts around 2.5 hours, the actual water time at the wreck and snorkeling stops varies but tends to be enough for a memorable experience, according to reviews.

Are hotel pickups guaranteed?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What wildlife might I see?
Turtles, various fish species, lobsters, starfish, and sometimes seabirds—guided comments often highlight the marine and birdlife seen along the route.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, because the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan confidently without worry.

This Antilla Shipwreck Seabob Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Aruba’s underwater charm, perfect for those wanting a little thrill with a lot of authentic marine sights. It combines adventure, education, and stunning scenery—all within a manageable time frame and budget. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply eager to add a splash of excitement to your vacation, this tour deserves a top spot on your Aruba itinerary.