Dutch company U-Boat Worx first proposed this Super Sub back in 2021, and now the first production sub has been revealed.
Described as "the most hydrodynamic sub on the market" when it was first proposed, the Super Sub was designed for speed. Back then its four thrusters were engineered to push the three-person submersible to speeds of 8 knots - that's reportedly faster than the cruising speed of a bottlenose dolphin - at depths of up to 300 m (984.25 ft).
U-Boat Worx officially revealed the Super Sub at the 2023 Monaco Yacht Show - listing it for sale and aiming to deliver by October 2024. A little later than planned, the first production unit has now been announced, and its top speed now maxes out at 9 knots (10.35 mph, 16.67 km/h) under the surface.
The Super Sub's panoramic acrylic bubble can accommodate two passengers plus a pilot - safely secured for twists and turns by five-point harnesses. The company says that occupants will be able to enjoy "exhilarating steep 45-degree climbs and impressive inclined underwater maneuvers, offering an experience like no other" thanks to foils mounted at the rear.
The bullet-shaped electric sub measures 6.5m (21 ft) in length, is 3.27m (10.7 ft) wide and has a height of 2.14m (7 ft). Its electric motors are claimed to last up to 8 hours for underwater adventures, coupled with at least 96 hours of air supply.
"The Super Sub is a marvel of engineering and luxury," said the company's Roy Heijdra. "It’s more than a submersible - it’s a first-class ticket to explore the ocean like never before, combining speed, safety, and sophistication in every dive."
In addition to well-heeled underwater thrill-seekers (price is only revealed to serious candidates looking to buy one), U-Boat Worx also envisages the Super Sub as "a strong candidate for use in search and rescue missions or other specialized operations."