U-Boat Worx, established in 2005 by Dutch entrepreneur Bert Houtman, is a leading manufacturer of deep-diving submersibles. Based in Breda, the Netherlands, the company specializes in designing and producing submersibles for private use, catering to superyacht owners, cruise ships, and the tourism sector.
History:
After a successful career in the software industry, Bert Houtman sought to purchase a personal submarine. Discovering that such submersibles were predominantly limited to military or institutional scientific use, he identified a market opportunity for private individuals. This realization led to the founding of U-Boat Worx in 2005 with the delivery of the first C-Quester 1 the following year.
Further milestones include the launch of the Super Yacht Sub 3 – a compact submersible designed for superyachts, making deep diving subs accessible to yachts of all sizes in 2014; as well as the introduction of the C-Researcher 3, the deepest diving submarine with a fully acrylic pressure hull built according to DNV rules in 2015.
Boat Models:
U-Boat Worx offers a diverse range of deep-diving submersibles, each tailored to specific applications:
C-Researcher Series
Designed for scientific exploration, these submersibles can reach depths up to 3,000 meters, accommodating two to five occupants.
NEXUS Series
Introduced in 2022, the NEXUS submersibles can carry up to nine passengers to depths of 200 meters, offering an immersive underwater experience for multiple guests.
Cruise Sub Series
Designed for cruise operations, these submersibles can transport five to 11 occupants to depths ranging from 200 to 1,700 meters, offering passengers a unique underwater adventure.
Super Yacht Sub Series
Specifically crafted for superyacht owners, these compact submersibles can dive up to 300 meters and accommodate three occupants, seamlessly integrating with luxury yachts.
NEMO Series
Aimed at individual explorers, the NEMO submersibles are lightweight and designed for personal use, allowing two occupants to dive to depths of 100 meters.
Super Sub
This high-speed submersible is designed for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled underwater experience, accommodating three occupants and reaching depths of 300 meters.
Each model is constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and safety for all occupants.
U-Boat Worx Unique Attributes
U-Boat Worx has made a name for themselves in the world of deep diving subs thanks to a number of factors:
- Innovation: The company were pioneers in applying lithium-ion battery technology in submersibles, enhancing performance and safety. Their development of pressure-tolerant battery systems has significantly increased energy capacity, allowing for longer and deeper dives.
- User-Friendly Technology: The MANTA Controller allows supervised passenger steering, enabling guests to experience piloting the submersible under expert supervision. Additionally, the MARLIN Controller facilitates easy and safe launch and recovery operations, allowing for wireless control and navigation on the surface without requiring a person inside the submarine.
- Safety and Comfort: With a focus on passenger experience, their deep-water submersibles are designed to provide maximum comfort while adhering to stringent safety standards, ensuring a secure and enjoyable underwater journey.
- Versatility: Serving various sectors, including yachting, cruise operations, tourism, research, and cinematography, U-Boat Worx offers submersibles tailored to diverse needs, making underwater exploration accessible to a wide audience.
By leveraging cutting-edge technology and maintaining an unwavering commitment to excellence, U-Boat Worx has solidified its position as a global leader in the deep-diving submersible industry. The company’s innovative designs and dedication to safety and performance provide unmatched opportunities for underwater exploration, setting new standards for the future of deep-sea discovery.
Shipyard Stats
- Founder: Bert Houtman
- Type: U-Boat Worx models include manned deep diving submersibles that can accommodate one to 11 people and operate at depths of 100 meters up to 3,000 meters.
- Series: C-Researcher Series, NEXUS Series, Cruise Sub Series, Super Yacht Sub Series, NEMO Series, Super Sub.
- Construction: Acrylic Pressure Hulls with steel and titanium components and lightweight composites.
