Tourist submarine launches on Sunshine Coast

For the first time in Australia, tourists will be able to dive to depths of up to 18m below the ocean’s surface onboard a fully submersible hybrid tourist submarine.

Down Under Submarines’ SUBCAT-30 is the only operating submarine of its kind in the world.

The SUBCAT-30 a hybrid vessel, meaning it can both dive underwater and travel on top of the water’s surface like a catamaran.

Visitors will be able to experience both, with dive experiences and sunset cruises available in the pristine waters off Mooloolaba.

Down Under Submarine Director Andrey Alexeenko said the dive experience would take visitors up to 18m below the surface, 1.5 nautical miles off Point Cartwright.

“As well as the marine life you can spot out the window, travelling in the nearly 20m-long submarine is an experience in itself,” Mr Alexeenko said.

“It’s a one-of-a-kind submarine which has a special hull above the water so passengers can get that experience of both submersion and refloating.

“That’s the difference, and it really gives you that adrenalin rush when you see you’re starting to submerge.”

Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said Down Under Submarines would add a new and exciting sea experience to the region.

“An experience of this kind has never been seen before in Australia,” Mr Stoeckel said.

“We are known for our pristine coastline, and Down Under Submarines will make our marine environment even more accessible, allowing visitors to explore the region from a different perspective.”

The SUBCAT-30 is sustainably powered by six battery-operated electric thrusters that produce zero emissions while submerged.

The interior design is similar to that of a plane cabin, with 14 circular windows offering visibility up to 30m underwater and video monitors providing real-time footage of the ocean around you from the four cameras located on the sub’s exterior.

The SUBCAT-30 travels about 2km/h underwater and is extraordinarily manoeuvrable to ensure it never comes into contact with coral reefs or marine life.

Contact RACQ Travel to plan your next holiday