Aruba Most Dramatic Snorkeling

Malmok Beach sits at the northern edge of Aruba resort coastline. Offshore lies the Antilla - a 122-meter German cargo ship scuttled in 1940, now the Caribbean largest accessible wreck resting at 18-27m depth. The shore reef delivers exceptional snorkeling: 25-30m visibility, consistent eagle ray sightings, rich coral from 2-3m depth.

At a Glance

GPS: 12.5882N, 70.0661W  ·  Antilla wreck: 18-27m (guided boat tour recommended)  ·  Shore reef: 2-10m

The Antilla Wreck

The 122-meter MV Antilla was scuttled on 10 May 1940. Its shallowest superstructure reaches 4-5m below surface in clear conditions. The hull is covered in 85 years of coral growth, orange tube sponges and purple fan corals. Massive grouper, barracuda and jack schools circle it. A guided boat snorkel tour is strongly recommended to reach the wreck properly and safely.

Shore Reef Eagle Rays

Eagle rays patrol Malmok more consistently than any other shore snorkel site in Aruba, most active at dawn and dusk. Arrive at 6-7 AM for the best chance of encounters. Nurse sharks rest under coral overhangs. Visibility regularly reaches 25-30m in the dry season.

Book an Antilla snorkel boat tour for the full wreck experience - shore snorkeling only shows a fraction of it. Use a surface marker buoy - boat traffic operates in these waters.

How to Get There

GPS: 12.5882N, 70.0661W - on Palm Beach Road, northern end of the resort strip.

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