Aruba Atlantis Submarine Tour

Aruba Atlantis Submarine Tour: An Underwater Adventure You Won’t Forget

Imagine slipping 130 feet beneath the Caribbean Sea without getting wet, all aboard a real submarine that offers a window into Aruba’s bustling underwater world. For $112 per person, you get approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of adventure — starting with a scenic ferry ride from Oranjestad to the submarine, then a 60-minute voyage under water. During this time, you’ll witness corners of the reef teeming with tropical fish, sponges, coral gardens, and even a couple of shipwrecks, all narrated by friendly, knowledgeable crew members.

What we love most about this experience is the air-conditioned comfort of the submarine — no wetsuit required — and the close-up views of marine life and wrecks that are simply unlike snorkeling or diving. Plus, the professional narration adds a layer of insight that makes it educational as well as entertaining. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that some passengers find the space a little tight during the tour. But if you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that’s safe, accessible, and packed with sights, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience is perfect for families with kids, first-time submarine riders, or anyone curious to see Aruba’s underwater environment without getting wet or diving deep. If you’re after a unique, comfortable, and informative marine adventure, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: You ride in a real, US Coast Guard-certified submarine, not a simulated ride.
• Comfort and Accessibility: The air-conditioned vessel and spacious viewing windows make it family-friendly.
• Educational and Entertaining: Narration by friendly guides enhances the experience, revealing marine life and shipwreck stories.
• Excellent Value: For under $120, you get nearly two hours of adventure, including a ferry ride and the actual submarine tour.
• Limited Space: Some passengers mention the interior can feel a bit snug, so book early if you’re concerned about crowding.
• Weather Dependent: The tour requires good weather; poor conditions could lead to cancellations but are typically rescheduled or refunded.

A Closer Look at the Aruba Atlantis Submarine Tour

Setting the Scene: From Land to Underwater

Starting at the Atlantis Store in downtown Oranjestad, the tour kicks off with a brief safety briefing and quick instructions. The meeting point, conveniently located at L.G. Smith Blvd 82, is near public transportation, making it easy to reach. We appreciated the well-organized check-in process and the friendly staff who set a relaxed tone for the adventure.

Once aboard the ferry, which lasts about 15-20 minutes, you’ll get a scenic cruise along Aruba’s southeastern coast. The ride provides a nice preview of the island’s coastline and prepares you for what’s ahead. Plus, the crew often keep things lively with jokes and music — a nice touch that keeps the mood upbeat before the main event.

Boarding the Submarine

Arriving at the submarine, which is moored just off the coast, you’ll find the vessel is surprisingly roomy. It’s a U.S. Coast Guard-certified passenger submarine, which means safety standards are high, and you can feel confident during the journey. The actual 60-minute underwater experience begins with boarding through a staircase leading into a cabin with large portholes—the perfect vantage points for viewing.

The Underwater Journey

The submarine gradually submerges, reaching depths of 130 feet, where the water is a different world altogether. While some reviews note the interior can feel a little crowded, the views through the portholes make up for it. You’ll see schools of colorful fish, moray eels, lobster, and coral gardens thriving in their natural habitat. The crew’s narration offers insights into the marine life, reef ecosystems, and the history of shipwrecks, making the trip both fun and educational.

Shipwrecks and Marine Life

Among the tour’s highlights are the shipwrecks—two of them— which have become vibrant habitats for marine creatures. Several reviews mention how fascinating it is to see these relics up close, almost as if they’re part of the reef. One visitor noted, “You will see multiple shipwrecks. Not as large of fish as you might see in other areas, but you will see plenty of small fish.” This balance of wrecks and lively sea life offers a well-rounded glimpse into Aruba’s underwater ecosystem.

The Return and Certification

After surfacing and returning to the dock, everyone receives an official dive certificate—a nice keepsake that confirms your underwater adventure. Many travelers find this touch adds a sense of achievement, especially for kids and first-timers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Submarine Experience

Unlike simulated submarine rides or glass-bottom boats, this tour takes you inside a real submarine. The fact that it’s certified by the US Coast Guard reassures travelers about safety standards and authenticity. You’re not just watching from above; you’re inside the vessel, peering out through big, clear windows.

Comfort and Convenience

The air-conditioning means you stay cool and dry, avoiding the hassles of snorkeling or diving gear. The spacious interior allows for a comfortable ride, and the guided narration keeps you engaged throughout. Several reviews, including Joanna’s, highlight how surprisingly comfortable and well-organized the experience is, even for those worried about motion sickness or claustrophobia.

Educational Value

The crew’s entertaining and informative commentary enriches the trip. You learn about the marine species, reef systems, and the history behind the shipwrecks. This makes the experience appealing for families or curious travelers who want more than just pretty pictures.

Practical Details and Considerations

Where and When

The tour departs from L.G. Smith Blvd 82 in Oranjestad at 11:00 am. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to check in, especially during busy cruise ship days when the dock can be crowded, as some reviews mention parking difficulties. The tour does not include hotel pickup, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Duration and Group Size

Total time is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, with roughly 45 minutes on the ferry and 60 minutes submerged. The tour is limited to 46 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate but can fill up quickly. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons.

Price and Value

At $112 per person, the tour offers a good value considering the fact that it includes the ferry ride, the submarine experience, and the certificate. Travelers have noted that booking directly through the provider can be more economical than third-party vendors, which sometimes overcharge.

Accessibility and Age Restrictions

Children must be at least 36 inches tall (about 4 years old) to ride, and all participants need to be able to climb stairs. Some reviews mention the interior could feel somewhat tight for larger groups, so if space is a concern, early booking might help.

Weather and Cancellations

This tour is weather-dependent. If the sea conditions aren’t safe, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. Fortunately, cancellations due to poor weather are typically refunded or rebooked at no extra cost.

Authenticity and Authenticity

This is not a simulated experience or a quick ride in a glass-bottom boat. It’s a real submarine with all the safety and comfort standards travelers desire. The underwater views of reef, fish, and shipwrecks are genuinely close-up, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Aruba.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Families with children will appreciate the safe, dry, and comfortable environment, plus the engaging narration. First-time submarine riders or those nervous about diving will find this a gentle introduction to undersea exploration. Marine enthusiasts will enjoy the shipwrecks and colorful marine life, while anyone looking for a unique experience beyond typical beach activities will find this tour richly rewarding.

If your goal is to see Aruba’s underwater world without the hassle of snorkeling or diving, and you want to do so in a well-organized, safety-conscious environment, this tour is an excellent choice.

The Sum Up

The Aruba Atlantis Submarine Tour offers a fantastic balance of adventure, education, and comfort. It’s a chance to see Aruba’s underwater landscapes — from reef inhabitants to historic shipwrecks — all from inside a US Coast Guard-certified vessel that prioritizes safety and ease. The air-conditioned cabin ensures a comfortable ride, making it accessible for families, seniors, or anyone who prefers to stay dry.

While it might be a little snug for some, the spectacular views and engaging narration make up for it several times over. The tour’s value lies not just in the sights, but in the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re in a real, safety-certified submarine. It’s a unique highlight of any Aruba trip and perfect for those looking for a memorable, educational, and fun marine adventure.

Ideal for families, first-time underwater explorers, or anyone wanting a safe, comfortable way to experience Aruba’s vibrant sea life without getting wet. If you’re curious about the ocean’s secrets and want a hassle-free, memorable experience, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Do we board a real submarine during the Aruba Atlantis Submarine Expedition?
Yes, it’s a genuine, US Coast Guard-certified submarine, providing a real underwater adventure to 130 feet below the surface.

Is the submarine air-conditioned during the tour?
Absolutely. The submarine is equipped with air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable, dry ride regardless of the outdoor weather.

Where is the departure location?
The tour begins at the Atlantis Store in Oranjestad, located at L.G. Smith Blvd 82, across from the Renaissance Resort. It’s easy to find and close to public transportation.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in is recommended at least 30 minutes before the scheduled 11:00 am departure to allow for safety briefing and boarding.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Children must be at least 36 inches tall (around 4 years old), and participants should be able to climb stairs. Some mention the interior can feel a little tight for larger groups.

What will I see during the tour?
You’ll view colorful fish, coral, eel, lobster, and shipwrecks. The crew provides commentary on marine life, reef ecosystems, and the history behind the wrecks.

Sources:
https://www.viator.com/tours/Aruba/Aruba-Atlantis-Submarine-Tour/d28-2455SUB