I don't know how many of you are familiar with this kind of water transportation, but in our world, there is something called a semi-submarine. As the name suggests, we're talking about something like a boat that can be used on the surface of the water, matches the diving part, and can be explored underwater.
There are several types of semi-submarines, the most common of which are those focused on tourism. This article shares a luxury semi-submarine called "Platypus". It's not exactly semi-submarine, though, as the diving part is not isolated from the surrounding water, but its purpose is the same: to give people a chance to experience life underwater.
Platypus was founded in 2009 and is based in France. Its name is inspired by the semi-aquatic mammal of the same name, which is very much in line with the products it produces.
Described as "the world's first semi-submersible vessel", the platypus vessel is an innovative maritime product that looks like an ordinary trimaran from the surface of the water, but its central part is connected to the hull by a sloping portring arm, facilitating access to and from the water. Her ability to submerge their pods and passengers less than 2 meters underwater provided them with a never-before-seen submarine experience, with the rest of the hull and engine remaining on the surface.
Powered by two 150-horsepower outboards, it reaches a top speed of 29 mph (47 km/h) and can carry 1 driver and 5 crews.
The Platypus differs from ordinary power boats in that it hangs underneath a pod that can be seen underwater. It is not a closed diving cabin, which means that people walking in the water under its support must wear specialized diving gear.
The pod can carry up to 5 people with a total weight of 400 kg (882 lbs), and when diving underwater, the boats connected to it must limit their maximum speed to 3 mph (5 km/h).
The company offers two versions of platypus, Named and Yachting. Speed is a bit like a sports boat, while yachts are perfect for use as accessory boats.
As standard, these things are equipped with a shisha diving system, including a dual-air compressor with six air hoses on the pod, a propeller cage to protect divers from harm, a digital periscope that allows divers to see what's happening on the surface of the water, and lights for better observation underwater (ten LED lights on both sides). In addition, people can choose more powerful lights, underwater cameras and communication systems.
Platypus's sticker ads showed the vessel was priced at $245,000.