9 Mar 2023

U-Boat Worx is proud to announce that their Cruise Sub 7 submarines have completed more than 1,000 Antarctic submarine dives in a single season, thereby granting thousands of guests an unparalleled underwater view into one of the world’s most remote and pristine destinations.

Cruise Subs

The Cruise Subs were aboard cruise ships operated by different owners. Scenic’s submarine was first introduced on the Scenic Eclipse back in 2020. Viking Expedition cruises followed soon after with their Viking Octantis; and not much later, Seabourn Venture embarked upon her maiden voyage.

The three cruise lines together have completed more than 1,000 dives, taking guests on immersive underwater journeys to explore the mesmerising marine life and spectacular natural wonders of Antarctica.

Cruise Sub 7 model

Cruise Sub 7 has seats specially designed to maximise legroom and headroom for guests

Scenic, Seabourn, and Viking submarines are U-Boat Worx’ Cruise Sub 7 model – state-of-the-art submersibles that can dive to 300 metres (1,000 feet) below the surface. 

The Cruise Sub 7 is built for optimal comfort and safety. It has large acrylic windows that provide 360-degree views of the underwater world and seats specially designed to maximise legroom and headroom for guests.

Environmentally models

Being battery-powered, the sub emits no pollutants, making it an environmentally friendly way for passengers to explore the depths of the Southern Ocean.

Each sub is equipped with powerful external lights to illuminate the sea floor. With only a small number of guests per dive, the experience is intimate, exclusive, and unforgettable.

Discoveries

Recently a giant phantom jellyfish was spotted three times by Viking Octantis’ yellow submarines

Every dive into the cold Antarctic waters provides an opportunity for discoveries. Recently a giant phantom jellyfish was spotted three times by Viking Octantis’ yellow submarines. 

According to National Geographic (click for article), since first being described in 1910 there have only been around 126 confirmed encounters with the rare giant phantom jellyfish “scyphozoan Stygiomedusa gigantea”.

Performance and durability

With discoveries like this, it’s not hard to imagine what thrilling possibilities might lie ahead. It’s clear why an increasing number of cruise ships are featuring these submersibles onboard as part of their offering.

The triumphant achievement of 1,000+ successful submarine dives in a single Antarctic season is a testament to the outstanding performance and durability of U-Boat Worx submarines.