Boat Dive Shipwreck/ Airplanes/ Reef /2 tanks

If you’re considering a boat diving trip around Aruba, you’ve likely come across options that promise unforgettable underwater sights. This particular tour, offered by Nautilus Dive Center, promises a 2-tank experience that takes you to a historic shipwreck and a vibrant reef. With a solid rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 13 reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers looking to combine the thrill of diving with the stunning marine scenery Aruba has to offer.

What we find appealing about this outing is its focus on authentic underwater exploration — not just surface-level snorkeling but real diving for those with certification. The small group limit of max 3 divers ensures a personalized experience, and the price point of $135 per person offers good value, especially considering the two dives included. However, it’s important to note that this tour is geared exclusively toward certified divers — a key point that might trip up beginners or casual snorkelers expecting a more relaxed outing.

This adventure is best suited for those who are comfortable diving with certification and eager to see Aruba’s underwater history and vibrant coral reefs firsthand. If you’re looking for a small-group, focused dive experience that combines history, reef life, and the clear waters of Aruba, then this tour could be just right. But if you’re a novice or expecting a more casual snorkel, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed dive experience.
• Two distinct dives: a historic shipwreck and a lively coral reef.
• Price of $135, offering good value for two tank dives with gear assistance.
• Only for certified divers, so beginners or those without certification should look into other options.
• Pickup included makes logistics easier, with the meeting point at Savaneta.
• Weather-dependent — cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.

An In-Depth Look at the Nautilus Boat Dive Experience

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This Aruba boat dive is crafted for those who already have their diving certification and want to explore beyond the typical snorkeling experience. Among the highlights are a famous shipwreck called Jane Sea and a vibrant reef at Barcadera, both offering contrasting but equally mesmerizing underwater sights.

The shipwreck is a historical relic that provides a compelling glimpse into Aruba’s maritime past. It’s a site that promises not just beautiful marine life but also a story, which adds depth to your underwater journey. The reef, on the other hand, bursts with color and life, making it a great spot for observing coral formations, tropical fish, and possibly larger marine creatures depending on the day.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is around 4 hours long, including transportation and the dives, which gives ample time to enjoy both sites without feeling rushed. Starting at Ir. Luymesstraat 3 in Savaneta, the tour includes pickup, which simplifies your logistics — no need to worry about transportation after booking.

Once aboard the boat, the crew’s professionalism becomes evident. The reviews mention “Izhar took care of all my gears,” highlighting attentive service, which matters for a comfortable dive. Since only 3 divers max, you can expect a more tailored experience, with the crew able to focus on your needs.

Dive Sites: Shipwreck & Reef

Dive 1: Jane Sea Shipwreck — This site is often praised for its accessibility and the chance to explore a piece of Aruba’s maritime history. The wreck lies in relatively shallow waters, suitable for divers of all experience levels (as long as certified). The wreck’s structure offers a habitat for marine organisms, so you’ll likely see plenty of fish and possibly some interesting macro life.

Dive 2: Barcadera Reef — Known for its vibrant coral formations, this reef is a showcase of Aruba’s marine biodiversity. The reef area is lively, with colorful corals and plenty of fish, making it ideal for underwater photography. The reef’s proximity to the shore, combined with calm waters, makes for a pleasant second dive.

What the Reviews Say

One reviewer enthused, “Great Dive! Especially for Izhar he took care of all my gears! Very polite and easygoing guy!! Thanks,” which underscores the quality of service and attention to diver needs. Conversely, a negative review pointed out that the tour is only for certified divers and not suitable for beginners, as well as poor communication from the provider. This highlights the importance of understanding the tour’s prerequisites before booking.

Practical Details

• Price: $135 per person, which covers two tanks and gear assistance. Considering this includes a boat trip, reef, and wreck, the cost is reasonable for experienced divers.
• Duration: Around 4 hours — ideal for those with limited time but who want a substantial underwater experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 3 divers, giving a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
• Booking & Cancellation: The tour can be canceled for free if notified 24 hours in advance. Weather conditions are a factor, so flexibility might be needed.

Accessibility & Considerations

Since this boat dive is for certified divers only, it’s not suited for those without certification or beginners. It’s also important to note that the tour’s small group size can fill up quickly — on average, bookings are made about 32 days in advance — so planning ahead is wise. The pickup at Savaneta minimizes logistics, but you’ll want to confirm your spot in advance.

The Real Value for Travelers

When considering this tour, think about the quality of experience versus its price. For experienced divers, the chance to explore a shipwreck and reef with a small, attentive crew offers a level of intimacy and focus that larger tours can’t match. The two tanks ensure a substantial dive, and the inclusion of gear assistance makes it easier for those who might feel overwhelmed by gear setup.

For those who value small group settings and are comfortable with the requirements, this experience offers a value-packed day of underwater adventure. It’s particularly appealing for travelers seeking authentic marine encounters without the crowds or the commercial feel of larger dive operations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Aruba dive tour is best suited for certified divers who want a focused, small-group experience. If you’re looking for a scenic, history-rich underwater exploration and already have your diving certification, you’ll find this trip offers good value and memorable sights.

Travelers who enjoy personalized attention and are comfortable with a limited group size will appreciate the intimacy. Conversely, if you’re a beginner or casual snorkeler, this tour isn’t appropriate, and you should explore other options that cater to your experience level.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this trip is intended for certified divers. Beginners or non-certified snorkelers should look for other excursions.

What does the tour include?
It includes two tanks for diving, gear assistance, and pickup from Savaneta. The tour lasts around 4 hours, covering two dive sites.

How many people are on this tour?
A maximum of 3 divers allows for a more personal experience and better attention from the crew.

What are the dive sites?
The first site is the Jane Sea Shipwreck, and the second site is Barcadera Reef.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Since gear is included, just bring your certification card, a towel, and sun protection.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from the meeting point is provided, so you don’t need to worry about arranging transport.

What kind of weather can affect the tour?
Good weather is required. Poor weather may lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ir. Luymesstraat 3, Savaneta, and returns there after the dives.

Final Thoughts

This boat dive experience in Aruba offers a focused, intimate look at its underwater treasures, making it ideal for certified divers eager to explore a historic wreck and colorful reef. The small group size enhances comfort, while the two tanks promise a substantial, fulfilling dive. The price of $135 is competitive, especially when considering the personalized service and premium sites.

Travelers who thrive on authentic, immersive underwater encounters will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Aruba itinerary. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize quality over quantity and want to experience the island’s marine life with a knowledgeable, attentive crew.

If you’re a certified diver looking for a short, manageable, and memorable dive adventure, this tour provides a good mix of history, nature, and authentic underwater exploration that’s hard to beat in Aruba.