At the 2022 Monaco Yacht Show, U-Boat Worx, a Dutch yacht building company, revealed designs for the Nautilus, a superyacht that can also function as a submarine for up to 4 days. The 1,250-ton, 37.5-meter vessel is inspired by Jules Verne’s tales and is the first realistic design that could fulfil both roles of maritime travel.
Since Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea came out in 1870, people have been dreaming of a luxury yacht with dive capabilities. Since then, inventors produced a lot of impressive concepts. Unfortunately, not one of these designs has ever been realised.
U-Boat Worx
The diesel-electric Nautilus has a depth rating of 200 meters, with a surface cruise speed of 9 knots and an underwater speed of 4 knots. The starting price is € 25 million and once ordered, the company says an owner can expect to have their ship delivered within 30 months.
When functioning as a boat, the vessel offers a massive sundeck equipped with a freshwater pool, a bar, and a luxurious dining table. This al fresco arrangement is retracted before the submersible slips below sea level.
The interior features a 50 m2 dinner and lounge area with four circular windows. Each with diameters close to 4 meters. The proposed design for the submarine has a master bedroom and four staterooms, as well as sleeping quarters for up to six crew. A fully equipped galley makes cooking an underwater meal simple and fun. However, interior layouts are fully customisable by the client.
People that have decided to buy a yacht will now have to consider if their vessel of choice can also dive down to 200 meters.
Bert Houtman, Chairman and Founder U-Boat Worx
A completely pressure-resistant electrical tender is stowed under the aft deck and will stay outside while diving. This tender, the Aronnax, may also be used for transporting five scuba divers underwater to the intended dive spot.
“If the sea becomes too rough, you simply dive and continue your voyage in comfort. With the Nautilus, the yachting market will never be the same again, said Bert Houtman, the Chairman and Founder of U-Boat Worx, explaining that diving under water can combat seasickness.
The superyacht submarine will be able to stay under water for up to 4 days. At cruise speed, the underwater endurance is six hours.
