This dive site features the Star Gerren, a German ship that was abandoned in a harbor in 1996. After deteriorating for several years, it was intentionally sunk in 2000 to serve as an artificial reef, though it accidentally landed on its side during the operation. The wreck offers numerous openings, making it ideal for divers to explore and swim through, providing an engaging and unique underwater landscape for exploration.
Over the years, the Star Gerren has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, attracting a variety of Caribbean marine life. Divers can expect to encounter diverse reef fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, snappers, and sergeant majors. The wreck structure has been colonized by various corals, sponges, and anemones, providing a habitat for smaller invertebrates like crabs and shrimps, enhancing its appeal for macro photography.
Aruba offers excellent diving conditions year-round, making any time suitable to visit Harbor Reef. Divers should practice good buoyancy control, especially when navigating the wreck's swim-throughs, to protect the delicate marine life and ensure safety. The site's shallow average depth of 9 meters also makes it perfect for freedivers and snorkelers to enjoy the top parts of the wreck and its surrounding reef.
