Triton has been a leading manufacturer of submarines in the last 15 years that produces some of the premier private submersibles. Triton has an array of underwater vehicles varying from ultra-deep submersibles all the way to leisure subs. Their latest concept known as Project Hercules, which was unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show 2022, changes the way the world has looked at luxury mini-subs. Traditionally these leisure subs that maneuver in and out of the ocean floor lack space and speed. That’s until Project Hercules; the next step in luxury adventures amongst the waves is finally here.
A special collaboration between Triton Submarines and Espen Øino International known as Project Hercules is an introductory endeavor into the commercial exploration of the deep sea. This luxury submarine re-invents the way Triton uses the patent-pending AVA hull. The team at EOI and Triton Submarines used high-level engineering combined with impeccable design to create Triton’s first-ever high-speed submersible. This submarine is versatile, capable of diving up to 200m and traveling in the range of 8 knots, one pilot and up to six passengers can keep up with sharks or whip through strong undercurrents while experiencing an interior that replicates a modern private jet. The Hercules has a Formula 1-style spoiler at the nose of the sub and advances and retracts to balance the horizontal trim while simultaneously providing additional protection. Traditionally built to hold 9 people, the expansive AVA pressure hull interior has now been perfectly condensed to fit fewer guests in a more comfortable and chic fashion. The interior is customizable and made with a variety of configurations curated to the owner’s taste and use purpose. Guests can host poker games, indulge in fine dining and cocktails, or even have a spa session. Two designer chaise lounges line the interior with an oversized daybed, large floor space for soft furnishing, and private dining with a day head and minibar.
The performance side of things is what separates Hercules from its competitors. Equipped with 4 large thrusters that make its speed up to twice that of traditional submersibles. Riders can swiftly glide and swim through the vertical plane that submarines usually dive in. Alongside the forward retractable spoiler is also a camera to record the captivating finds below the water line. This craft is intimate and private as the pilot is tucked away in the back operating the sub via screen or a VR headset ensuring maximum privacy. It’s able to swim around for 10 hours before needing a refuel, giving you ample time to explore. Espen Øino describes Project Hercules as a project to “create an ‘Inner Space Craft’, one that delivered a calm and exclusive environment where owners and guests could enjoy intimate conversations, contemplative calmness and memorable private experiences”‘. The concept itself and engineering phases of the project are currently complete with testing but final specifications and price haven’t been established quite yet. Project Hercules isn’t quite finished but when it is, if you can get your hand on one then you are the lucky one!
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