The Titan submersible implosion was a grim reminder of the serious dangers involved in deep-sea expeditions and explorations for eco-tourism. While some might argue that it is way better than exploration on the sea surface, there’s got to be a better and safer way to experience the wonders of the underwater world in person.
François-Alexandre Bertrand has a solution in the form of Platypus Craft prototype, a semi-submersible vessel for safe and feasible underwater exploration. This is in line with breaking the notion that water adventure activities and environmental responsibility are hard to coexist. Clear from the naming convention, the zero-emission craft is inspired by the amphibious Playptus mammal.
Designer: Playptus Craft and Evoy
The five-seater watercraft is developed in partnership with Evoy who have developed the high-output electric motors for the vessel. Platypus Craft has some cool trickery up its sleeve for underwater exploration. The seating platform can be lowered down completely to submerge the riders safely for a whole new experience. It comes with an array of safety equipment like retractable air hoses connected to an onboard compressor.
This dual configuration has many benefits, including multi-functionality and fewer chances of harming the marine ecosystem. One can use it for riding the waters for scenic trips or more intense underwater explorations within the safety norms.
The watercraft gets twin Evoy Outboard Breeze 120+ electric motors mated to a 63KW twin battery pack. This makes the vessel having a catamaran hull design, reach a top speed of 25 knots and have a cruising speed of 15 knots when riding the surface. When submerged underwater, Platypus Craft prototype’s speed is reduced to a comfortable 3 to 5 knots for unobstructed views of the marine life. In the submerged mode, the craft can cover an impressive distance of 30 to 80 nautical miles.
Initially, the maker is going to release the Platypus Yacht Edition in 2025, fueling a new era of submersible explorations sans the inherent dangers of deep-sea explorations. The watercraft will be the first ever commercially available submersible to feature Evoy’s electric motor system that comes with zero-emission promise and also eliminates the typical fuel slicks and bilge water problems with non-electric versions.
