What to Expect with a Submarine Excursion
Jun 03, 2026
Published October 2024 | Updated June 2026
Submarine Excursions: What to Expect with this Unique Cruise Experience
Cruisers may hesitate to partake in a submarine excursion after the tragic implosion of the Titanic submarine in 2023. Although that was a completely different situation, tourists may wonder if a submarine or submersibles are safe. According to experts, yes they are. Here's what you can expect if you brave a submarine excursion, or something similar, popular at port destinations such as Barbados, Cozumel, Aruba, and Bonaire. Most of the cruise lines will offer these as excursions, or you can book independently.
- They are safe: Tourist submarine excursions are a completely different category from the 2023 Titan incident. Safety experts confirm they are safe.
- Check sub vs. semi-sub: Some excursions are semi-submersibles with underwater viewing panels, not fully submerged subs. Read descriptions carefully.
- Skip if claustrophobic: It's cramped. You're packed in like sardines. If enclosed spaces bother you, pass on this one.
- No special gear needed: You don't get wet. Wear comfortable clothes and be able to climb a vertical ladder.
- Colors will be washed out: Light refraction at depth mutes colors. Go for the experience, not the photos.
In This Guide
Submarine Excursions
First, get the details of your submarine excursion and read reviews before booking, as it may be a "semi-submersive" experience. My experience was the real deal. A fully submerged submarine adventure at Oranjestad, the Aruba Atlantis Submarine Expedition. This was a great experience, but a little pricey, so now that I've done it once, I don't really have a desire to do it again any time soon. If you're claustrophobic, you'll want to skip this one.
On my excursion, our group met right outside the cruise port, where we were put on a water taxi and transported over to the sub. This transport took about 20 minutes each way, and then we spent approximately 90 minutes in the sub, which, for me, was more than enough time.
What to Bring to a Submarine Excursion
Participants don't get wet with a submarine excursion, so you don't need to wear or bring anything special. You'll end up in a very cramped and confined space, as they cram tourists in, like, well. Sardines in a can, so wear comfortable clothing. Getting down into the sub and back out will likely involve climbing a vertical ladder, so some degree of mobility is required, although that's really the only physical aspect of this excursion.
On my submarine adventure, our captain took us 130 feet under the surface and navigated around a couple of shipwrecks and reefs. It was really cool to float along peacefully and see what the fish see. Don't expect vibrant colors, though, as due to the refraction of light at that depth, everything looks sort of washed out.
You likely won't be getting any stunning, crisp photographs of marine life, but that's okay. This one is more about the lived experience and being in the moment.
Cruise Ports with Submarine Excursions
My submarine adventure was in Aruba, but this is an activity offered in other Caribbean ports of call, including the following:
- Aruba Atlantis Submarine Expedition
- Oranjestad, Aruba "Semi-Sub"
- Atlantis Submarine Day Tour in Barbados
- Semi Submarine Bonaire
- Atlantis Submarine Experience in Cozumel
If you aren't claustrophobic or nervous about plunging into the depths of the ocean, this is a really cool and unique experience that I encourage everyone to try at least once. It's truly an unforgettable experience and a bucket list achievement!
Submarine Excursion FAQ
Are submarine excursions safe for cruise passengers?
Yes. Tourist submarine excursions at cruise ports are entirely different from the 2023 Titan submersible incident, which was an experimental deep-sea craft. Certified tourist submarines used by cruise excursion operators are regularly inspected, and safety experts confirm they are safe for passengers.
What is the difference between a submarine and a semi-submarine excursion?
A full submarine submerges completely underwater. A semi-submarine (or semi-sub) stays partially above the waterline, with underwater viewing panels below. Both offer views of marine life and reefs, but the full submarine experience goes significantly deeper. Always read the excursion description to know which type you are booking.
What should I bring to a submarine excursion?
Nothing special. You do not get wet on a submarine excursion. Wear comfortable clothing, as the interior is cramped. Some basic mobility is required to climb a vertical ladder to board and exit the sub.
What will I see on a submarine excursion?
At depth, you can expect shipwrecks, coral reefs, and marine life. Colors will appear washed out because of how light refracts at depth, so photos will not be crisp. The value is the lived experience of floating peacefully through the ocean and seeing the world from the fish's perspective.
Which cruise ports offer submarine excursions?
Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, and Cozumel all offer Atlantis Submarine or semi-submarine excursions. These can be booked through the cruise line or independently through tour operators.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
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