The ‘world’s scariest’ hotel in the middle of the ocean

This work is a former lighthouse station, built in 1964 in an area known as the “Atlantic graveyard” because it has witnessed many shipwrecks in history. After decades of abandonment, the tower was renovated into an experiential accommodation location and officially welcomed guests since 2012.

Frying Pan Tower became famous after a video recording the scene of Captain Austin Aycock taking 6 tourists out to stay attracted more than 2.2 million views on social networks. Many people said they were curious but not brave enough to experience it, while others likened the scene to a survival movie.

Room rates are approximately 200 USD per person per night, with a three-night minimum booking required. According to Aycock, the longest group of guests staying here stays for two weeks continuously.

To get to the tower, visitors are taken to the main deck by a high-speed elevator, about 24 m above sea level. Below is the water inhabited by many species of sharks such as white sharks, bull sharks and tiger sharks.

Frying Pan Tower is located on a route frequently affected by Atlantic storms. If an emergency occurs, evacuation must be done by helicopter or ship from the mainland.

The accommodation facility can accommodate a maximum of 12 guests with 8 bedrooms. Inside is equipped with a fully equipped stainless steel kitchen, washing machine, dryer, hot shower and high-speed Internet using electricity from a solar panel system. Fresh water is provided by a seawater filtration system using reverse osmosis technology.

Visitors can participate in fishing, diving to see coral at the preserved coral reef at the foot of the tower, shooting flying discs (using discs made from biodegradable materials) and playing golf with biodegradable balls made from fish food.

Even though it is fully equipped with amenities, many people still think this experience is too risky. One account commented: “No matter how much I paid, I wouldn’t stay on a tower in the middle of the ocean like that.” Others called this “the easiest rejection of my life”. Besides, there are also humorous comments. One person wrote: “At least zombies can’t get here.”

Many people expressed concerns about safety issues, especially when medical incidents occur. One comment that attracted more than 20,000 likes questioned whether guests should call the US Coast Guard if they need emergency help.

Frying Pan Tower is currently managed and preserved as a historical site by a volunteer community. For groups of guests, this place can also hire a private chef. The approximately 465 m2 helicopter landing pad is also used as a space to watch the stars, catch the sunrise or hang a hammock to relax in the middle of the ocean.