The SM16 Tourist Submarine, designed by Jacques Piccard and manufactured by Sulzer Brothers Limited in Switzerland, marks a notable advancement in the field of underwater tourism. This medium-sized vessel is engineered for reliability, maintenance ease, and transportability, with a capability to dive up to 100 meters (330 feet) and support eight one-hour dives daily. Its construction involved meticulous quality control measures, including 100% X-ray examination of all welding and comprehensive pressure tests, ensuring the integrity of the hull and onboard systems.

The submarine’s structure features a main pressure hull made from medium tensile steel plates, ensuring durability and safety for passengers. Its design incorporates large, spherical sector side viewports, offering passengers expansive underwater views, enhancing the overall dive experience. The SM16 is equipped with advanced propulsion and maneuvering systems, including electric vertical thrusters and a main propulsion motor, enabling precise control during dives.

For passenger embarkation, the SM16 provides a main entrance hatch equipped with a large viewport, adding to the submarine’s unique viewing capabilities. The interior is designed with passenger comfort in mind, featuring a gray leather interior and ample lighting, alongside a life support system that meticulously maintains the cabin atmosphere.

In terms of emergency preparedness, the SM16 is equipped with a comprehensive life support system, capable of sustaining a full crew for three days, with additional personal re-breathers for each occupant. This attention to safety is complemented by a seating arrangement that fosters interaction among passengers, making the underwater journey not only a visual feast but also a social experience.

The SM16’s electrical system, divided into three independent circuits for redundancy, highlights the submarine’s design philosophy that prioritizes safety, passenger experience, and operational efficiency. This submarine not only represents a significant technical achievement in submersible design but also offers a promising avenue for making underwater exploration accessible to a broader audience.

Quick Details:

• Passengers: 16 (14 passengers + 2 crew)
• Operating Depth: 100 meters
• Dimensions: 13.2m (length) x 2.7m (breadth) x 4.76m (height)
• Emergency Endurance: 72 hours
• Class: Certified by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
• Support: Comprehensive start-up support is available upon request.

STATUS: This pre-owned submarine is in need of a refit program. You have the option to purchase it as is, or you can request that we prepare it for you, ensuring it is dive-ready.