Migaloo, a company allegedly specialising in private submersible yachts, in other words, superyacht – submarine hybrids, has unveiled a new design – the M5.
The 165-metre-long vessel comes equipped with all amenities one would expect from a luxury superyacht, including a helipad, two retractable pools, a jacuzzi, 36-seat dining room and options for extras such as a wine cellar or cinema. But, compared to regular superyachts, the M5 has one additional feature, it can stay underwater for up to 4 weeks, according to Migaloo.
We believe that Submersible Superyachts are the future of yachting.
Christian Gumpold, CEO and Founder
“The needs of Superyacht Owners for their vessels are more complex than ever”, said company CEO and founder, Christian Gumpold. “These wishes do not just include performance, length or design. Owners are looking for privacy, security and protection for themselves, their guests and their valuables, or for the fulfilment of unique experiences up to scientific desires as well as for the greatest possible exclusivity and limitation.”
Powered by a diesel electric engine, the superyacht/submarine can reach speeds of 20 knots when surfaced and up to 12 knots underwater. It can reach depths of up to 250 metres and can accommodate 20 passengers and 40 crew members. The lavish, white and gold, open-air cabins turn into sealed, pressurised chambers when the vessel goes underwater, maintaining a futuristic looking design thanks to the neon ambient light.
According to Gumpold, the new type of vessel was designed for “visionary billionaires with or without existing superyacht experience who have extraordinary demands for exclusivity, safety and adventure”. However, with a construction price tag of 3 billion Australian dollars (€1.82 billion), the company has struggled to find the necessary funding to bring M5 to reality.
We are “negotiating with a number of interested parties from all over the world who are motivated to own the world’s first superyacht-submarine hybrid”, Gumpold said, admitting that safety is the main concern among potential buyers. It might be just too soon after the OceanGate tragedy for people to venture into the world of submersibles.
