For those seeking a unique and immersive way to explore Aruba’s underwater wonders, the Semi-Submarine Cruise from Palm Beach is a must-try excursion. Offering a dry and comfortable alternative to traditional snorkeling or scuba diving, this 90-minute tour allows visitors to descend beneath the waves and witness the captivating Antilla shipwreck and the vibrant marine life of Arashi Reef without ever getting wet. With an informative guide and the opportunity to marvel at Aruba’s breathtaking aquatic landscapes, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience that may just leave you wondering what other secrets the island’s depths hold.
Key Points
- A 90-minute semi-submarine tour providing safe and dry views of Arashi Reef and the historic Antilla WWII German shipwreck near Palm Beach in Aruba.
- Guests board a transfer boat near Arashi Reef and descend into the glassed-in viewing space submerged below the surface.
- The tour explores the 423-foot Antilla shipwreck in 60 feet of water and showcases the diverse coral formations of Arashi Reef.
- Passengers witness the eerie silhouette of the German freighter and observe vibrant schools of tropical fish and swaying sea fans surrounding the wreckage.
- The semi-submarine tour starts and ends at the De Palm Pier on Palm Beach, providing an up-close encounter with Aruba’s mesmerizing underwater attractions.
Overview of the Semi-Submarine Cruise
The Aruba semi-submarine excursion offers a 90-minute tour that provides safe and dry views of the underwater world, including the captivating Arashi Reef and the historic Antilla WWII German shipwreck.
Passengers board a transfer boat to the Seaworld Explorer semi-submarine near Arashi Reef, before descending into the glassed-in viewing space submerged below the surface. From this unique vantage point, they can observe the 423-foot German freighter shipwreck in 60 feet of water.
After 90 minutes of exploring the underwater marvels, the tour returns to the original meeting point at De Palm Pier on Palm Beach. This excursion is a must-do activity for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable way to discover Aruba’s marine life and historical shipwreck.
Inclusions in the Tour
Included in the 90-minute semi-submarine tour is the local taxes, providing travelers with a hassle-free experience.
Gratuities, however, aren’t part of the package.
The tour includes a board transfer boat to the Seaworld Explorer semi-sub near Arashi Reef, where participants can descend into the glassed-in viewing space submerged below the surface.
From this unique vantage point, they can marvel at the 423-foot German freighter Antilla shipwreck lying in 60 feet of water.
After 90 minutes of exploring the underwater world, the tour returns to the original meeting point at De Palm Pier on Palm Beach.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Travelers meet at the De Palm Pier on Palm Beach to board the transfer boat that takes them near Arashi Reef, where the Seaworld Explorer semi-sub awaits.
The semi-submarine tour starts from this meeting point and ends back at the same location.
Once at the semi-sub, passengers descend into the glassed-in viewing space that’s submerged below the surface, allowing them to marvel at the underwater sights.
After 90 minutes of exploring the reef and the Antilla, a 423-foot German freighter shipwreck in 60 feet of water, the tour concludes, and travelers disembark at the original meeting point on Palm Beach.
Itinerary of the Excursion
The semi-submarine tour begins as passengers board the transfer boat near Arashi Reef, where the Seaworld Explorer semi-sub awaits. Once aboard, guests descend into the glassed-in viewing space, submerged below the surface. This offers them a safe and dry view of the underwater world, including the Antilla, a 423-foot German freighter shipwreck resting in 60 feet of water.
| Onboard the Semi-Sub | What Passengers See |
|---|---|
| Glassed-in viewing space | Arashi Reef |
| Submerged below the surface | Antilla Shipwreck |
| 90-minute excursion | Marine Life |
After 90 minutes of exploration, the semi-submarine tour returns to the meeting point at De Palm Pier on Palm Beach.
Underwater Views and Highlights
During the 90-minute semi-submarine excursion, passengers enjoy unparalleled views of Aruba’s vibrant underwater world.
The glassed-in viewing space immerses them in the marine ecosystem, showcasing the Antilla shipwreck and the diverse coral formations of Arashi Reef.
Descending beneath the surface, guests witness the eerie silhouette of the 423-foot German freighter that has become a thriving artificial reef.
Vibrant schools of tropical fish dart through the wreckage, while swaying sea fans and lush coral carpets the seafloor.
The semi-submarine’s unique design allows for a dry, safe exploration of this subaquatic landscape, providing an up-close encounter with Aruba’s mesmerizing underwater attractions.
Accessibility and Recommendations
While the semi-submarine tour offers a unique underwater viewing experience, there are some important considerations for potential participants. It’s not wheelchair accessible, and infants must be held on laps during the excursion. Those prone to motion sickness may also want to exercise caution, as the semi-submarine’s submersion below the surface could potentially trigger discomfort.
To help prospective travelers better understand the accessibility and recommendations, here’s a table outlining the key details:
| Accessibility | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Not wheelchair accessible | Not recommended for those with motion sickness |
| Infants must sit on laps | Maximum of 44 travelers per tour |
| N/A | Operated by De Palm Tours VBA |
| N/A | From $49.74 per person |
| N/A | N/A |
Tour Group Size
The semi-submarine tours accommodate a maximum of 44 travelers per excursion, providing an intimate and personalized underwater viewing experience.
This small group size offers several advantages:
- Enhanced visibility: With fewer passengers, each person has a clear, unobstructed view of the marine life and shipwreck below.
- Attentive service: The crew can provide more individualized attention and information to the smaller group.
- Comfortable atmosphere: The compact space creates a cozy and comfortable environment, allowing guests to fully enjoy the underwater exploration.
Operator and Pricing
Operated by the reputable De Palm Tours VBA, the Aruba semi-submarine cruise is priced at $49.74 per person, making it an affordable option for travelers seeking an immersive underwater experience.
Despite the relatively low cost, the tour includes a range of features, such as a 90-minute semi-submarine excursion, local taxes, and stunning views of the Arashi Reef and the Antilla WWII German shipwreck.
With a maximum capacity of 44 travelers per tour, the experience offers an intimate and personalized adventure.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for those prone to motion sickness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour, though gratuities are not included. The semi-submarine excursion provides safe, dry views of the underwater world for 90 minutes.
Will There Be Staff on the Semi-Submarine to Answer Questions?
Yes, there will be staff on the semi-submarine to answer questions. Passengers can ask the crew about the underwater sights, the shipwreck, and other details during the 90-minute excursion.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Excursion?
The cancellation policy for this semi-submarine excursion is not explicitly provided in the details. Customers should check with the operator, De Palm Tours VBA, for their specific cancellation terms and any applicable fees prior to booking.
Are Professional Photos Taken During the Cruise and Available for Purchase?
The semi-submarine cruise offers professional photos taken during the excursion, which can be purchased. Photos capture the views of the underwater Arashi Reef and the Antilla shipwreck from the submerged viewing space.
Is the Semi-Submarine Suitable for Those With Claustrophobia or Fear of Enclosed Spaces?
The semi-submarine may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia or fear of enclosed spaces, as the viewing space is submerged below the surface and enclosed. Those with such concerns should consider an alternate activity.
Recap
The Aruba Semi-Submarine Cruise from Palm Beach offers an exceptional way to explore Aruba’s captivating underwater world.
Passengers embark on a 90-minute tour, descending into the semi-submarine’s glass-enclosed viewing area to witness the Antilla shipwreck and vibrant marine life of Arashi Reef.
This immersive and educational experience allows visitors to marvel at Aruba’s mesmerizing underwater attractions without getting wet, making it a truly unique and unforgettable adventure.
