SportSub
2-Person
Wet
Submersible

Key Submarine Specifications

Model:

SportSub

Maximum Depth:

40 metres metres

Passenger Capacity:

1

Crew:

1

Length:

3.05m metres

Width:

1.83m metres

Dry Weight:

565kg tonnes

Price:

POA

The SportSub is a two-person ambient pressure wet submersible that combines the freedom of scuba diving with the control and range of a small underwater vehicle. Constructed from hand-laid fibreglass, it accommodates a pilot and one passenger and is rated to a maximum operating depth of 40 metres (130 feet). The submarine is currently available for immediate sale in excellent condition and is dive ready.

As an ambient pressure design, the SportSub operates with open-air breathing equipment rather than a sealed one-atmosphere cabin. Occupants breathe from onboard scuba tanks throughout the dive, and the exit port remains open at all times, allowing trained scuba divers to exit and re-enter underwater. Non-divers can travel as a passenger without diving certification, making this an accessible platform for resort introductory experiences as well as operator-led excursions.

The vehicle is powered by a 24-volt electric propulsion system with two variable-thrust port and starboard thrusters, delivering a top speed of five knots. An electronic buoyancy control system provides selectable auto, off, and manual modes, and a computerised dive monitor tracks depth, dive time, remaining allowable time at depth, and safe ceiling, with audible alarms for ascent rate and decompression requirements. Triple independent ballast tanks and manual drop weights provide redundant emergency buoyancy.

The SportSub is easily transported on a road trailer behind a standard car and can be towed offshore to the dive site by a suitable small boat, requiring no specialist launch infrastructure. A pilot training course is available to purchasers. Serious buyers are invited to use the enquiry button on this page to contact the Silvercrest Submarines team directly.

Full Submarine Specifications

  • 40 metres metres maximum operational depth
  • Two-person ambient pressure wet submersible — pilot and one passenger capacity
  • Maximum operating depth of 40 metres (130 feet)
  • Hand-laid fibreglass (GRP) hull construction with stainless steel and engineered plastic fittings
  • 24-volt electric propulsion with two independently variable-thrust thrusters; top speed 5 knots
  • Electronic buoyancy control — selectable auto, off, and manual modes
  • Fly-by-wire joystick thruster speed and direction control
  • Computerised multi-level, multi-tissue dive monitor with depth, dive time, safe ceiling, and ascent rate alarm
  • Triple independent ballast tanks (forward, cockpit, aft) for redundant buoyancy management
  • Primary air supply (2 × 80 cu ft scuba tanks) plus independent reserve air supply
  • Manual drop weights as final emergency ascent measure
  • Exit port always open — trained scuba divers can exit and re-enter underwater
  • Non-divers can travel as passenger — no diving certification required
  • Battery monitor displaying true percentage of capacity; electrical fault alarm system
  • Towed on road trailer behind a standard car; small boat tow at sea
  • Pilot training course available at purchaser’s local dive site
  • Currently in excellent condition and dive ready

Key Features of The Submarine

  • Genuine 40-metre depth rating in the most compact and transportable package in the Silvercrest Submarines inventory
  • Non-diver passenger capability — general tourists can participate without scuba certification
  • Road trailer transport — no crane, no slip, no specialist marina required
  • Five-knot top speed — far greater range and speed than scuba divers alone
  • Hand-laid GRP construction with stainless steel and engineered plastic components
  • Fly-by-wire joystick control with two independently variable-thrust thrusters
  • Electronic buoyancy control (auto/off/manual) with fly-by-wire auto-hover capability
  • Three independent ballast tanks for precise trim and buoyancy management
  • Independent reserve air system — fully separate from primary supply circuit
  • Manual drop weights as final mechanical emergency ascent — no power required
  • Computerised multi-tissue dive monitor with decompression status and ascent alarm
  • Comprehensive electrical fault alarm system — battery, power module, thruster wiring
  • Exit port permanently open — trained diver occupants can exit and re-enter freely
  • Currently in excellent condition and dive ready
  • Pilot training course available at purchaser’s local dive site

Full SportSub Specifications

  • Occupant Capacity: 2 persons (pilot + 1 passenger)
  • Maximum Operating Depth: 40 metres (130 feet)
  • Length: 305 cm (approximately 3.05 metres)
  • Width: 183 cm (approximately 1.83 metres)
  • Height: 140 cm (approximately 1.40 metres)
  • Weight (Dry): 1,250 lbs (approximately 565 kg)
  • Hull Construction: Hand-laid fibreglass (GRP)
  • Component Materials: Fibreglass, stainless steel, engineered plastics
  • System Voltage: 24 volts
  • Battery Capacity: 50 Amp Hours
  • Battery Charger: Automatic, 10 Amp, marine grade
  • Thrusters: 2 × port and starboard, amidships
  • Maximum Thrust Force: 75 lbs each
  • Thrust Angle Control: Continuously variable, independent forward and reverse
  • Top Speed: 5 knots
  • Payload Capacity: 400 lbs (180 kg) weight in water
  • Ballast Tanks: 3 × independent (forward, cockpit, aft)
  • Primary Air Supply: 2 × 80 cu ft scuba tanks
  • Reserve Air Supply: 1 × 80 cu ft scuba tank
  • Viewports: 5 × flat (3 forward, 2 down); 2 × domed (9-inch diameter, each side)
  • Buoyancy Control: Electronic, selectable auto / off / manual
  • Thruster Control: Fly-by-wire joystick system
  • Dive Monitor: Computerised multi-level, multi-tissue (depth, dive time, remaining time at depth, safe ceiling)
  • Alarms: Ascent rate; decompression required; high/low battery voltage; power module fault; joystick module fault; thruster wiring fault
  • Compass: Liquid filled
  • Pressure Gauges: Main air supply 0–5,000 psi; reserve air 0–5,000 psi
  • Air Flow Meter: Variable 1–120 CFH
  • Safety Systems: Upward thrust, EBC manual override, reserve air system, manual cockpit air inlet, triple ballast tanks, removable scuba tanks, manual drop weights, exit port always open for swimming ascent
  • Transport: Road trailer; small boat tow at sea
  • Condition: Excellent — dive ready

Key Features of The SportSub

  • Genuine 40-metre depth rating in an exceptionally compact and transportable package
  • Ambient pressure design dramatically reduces cost and complexity versus pressure-hull alternatives
  • Non-diver passenger capability broadens resort and commercial visitor market
  • Five-knot top speed — significantly faster and with greater range than scuba divers alone
  • Five forward and downward-facing acrylic viewports for comprehensive underwater visibility
  • Fly-by-wire joystick control system for precise, intuitive manoeuvring
  • Three independent ballast tanks for flexible buoyancy management at any depth
  • Independent reserve air system entirely separate from primary supply
  • Manual drop weights as final mechanical emergency ascent — no electrical dependency
  • Exit port always open — trained divers can exit and re-enter freely during dive
  • Computerised dive monitor with decompression status and ascent alarm
  • Road trailer transport — deploy from any coastal or inland dive site
  • No specialist launch infrastructure required
  • Pilot training course available at purchaser’s local site
  • Currently in excellent condition and immediately dive ready

An Accessible Underwater Vehicle for Resort and Personal Operations

The SportSub occupies a well-defined market position: a genuine submersible vehicle operating to 40 metres depth, at a price point and operational complexity far below that of any one-atmosphere pressure-hull submarine. For resort operators, dive centres, scuba clubs, and private buyers seeking a real underwater vehicle experience without the capital investment and infrastructure demands of a sealed cabin submarine, it represents a compelling and proven platform.

The ambient pressure design is the key to this accessibility. By operating at water pressure rather than maintaining an internal pressurised atmosphere, the SportSub avoids the engineering complexity of pressure hulls, life support regeneration systems, high-pressure viewports, and atmospheric seals. The result is a lightweight GRP vessel — 565 kg dry — that fits on a road trailer, requires no crane or slip for launching, and can be towed to any coastal or inland dive site by a standard vehicle. This is a submersible that a single operator can deploy from a beach or marina without port infrastructure.

Commercially, the non-diver passenger capability is a significant factor. A passenger without diving certification can participate fully in the experience, with the pilot managing all diving operations. This substantially broadens the eligible visitor market at resort operations — removing the barrier of scuba qualification and allowing operators to offer the experience to a general tourist audience rather than a dive-specific demographic.

Silvercrest Submarines has extensive experience advising operators across the full range of submersible platforms, from large passenger tourist submarines down to compact personal vehicles of this type. Buyers considering the SportSub for resort or private use are invited to use the enquiry button on this page to discuss operational requirements, training, and site suitability with the Silvercrest Submarines team directly.

Design and Construction

The SportSub is constructed from hand-laid fibreglass (GRP) with stainless steel hardware and engineered plastic components throughout. The hull provides sufficient structural integrity for repeated dives to its rated depth of 40 metres, whilst keeping overall dry weight to approximately 565 kg — light enough for road trailer transport and launch without specialist lifting equipment. The compact dimensions of 305 cm length, 183 cm width, and 140 cm height allow the vehicle to be transported on a standard road trailer and handled by a small shore team.

The pressure hull approach of conventional submarines is deliberately avoided. The SportSub’s open ambient pressure design means no pressure seals are required on the main cabin structure, simplifying maintenance significantly and reducing the engineering burden on the operator. The exit port remains open throughout the dive as a fundamental feature of the design rather than an emergency measure — it provides continuous freedom of movement for trained diver occupants and forms part of the multi-redundant escape architecture.

Viewport Configuration

The SportSub provides seven acrylic viewport positions: five flat viewports — three forward-facing and two downward-facing — plus two domed viewports of 9-inch diameter, one on each side. The forward and downward flat viewports deliver effective field of view for both pilot navigation and passenger observation during the dive. The side domed viewports supplement lateral visibility. This configuration prioritises practical operational visibility for a two-person ambient pressure vehicle at recreational dive depths.

Propulsion System

Propulsion is provided by two electric thrusters positioned amidships, one to port and one to starboard. Each thruster develops a maximum thrust force of 75 lbs and is independently controlled through a continuously variable fly-by-wire joystick system, allowing differential thrust for turning as well as simultaneous forward and reverse commands. Thrust angle control allows independent forward and reverse settings on each thruster. Top speed is confirmed at five knots. The propulsion system operates from a 24-volt DC electrical supply fed from the onboard battery bank.

Battery capacity is 50 Amp Hours, charged by an automatic 10-amp marine-grade charger. The battery monitor provides a true percentage of remaining capacity reading throughout the dive, and the electrical fault alarm system monitors battery voltage, power module status, joystick module status, and thruster wiring continuity — providing the pilot with early warning of any electrical anomaly before it becomes an operational issue.

Buoyancy Control and Ballast Systems

Buoyancy management combines electronic control with multiple independent mechanical backup systems. The electronic buoyancy control (EBC) system offers selectable auto, off, and manual modes and is managed via the fly-by-wire joystick system. Three independent ballast tanks — forward, cockpit, and aft — can be controlled individually to manage trim and buoyancy at depth. Manual drop weights provide a final independent emergency ascent capability that requires no electrical power and no valve operation: the weights can be released mechanically regardless of system status.

Air Supply and Breathing Systems

Primary air is supplied by two 80 cubic foot scuba tanks. An entirely independent reserve air system provides an additional 80 cubic feet through a separate circuit and separate pressure gauge, ensuring that a failure or depletion of the primary supply does not compromise the occupants’ ability to ascend safely. Air flow is regulated through a variable air flow meter (1–120 CFH), with main and reserve supply pressures displayed on dedicated gauges readable during the dive. The open ambient pressure design means occupants breathe directly from the tanks via standard scuba regulators throughout the dive.

Safety Systems

The SportSub incorporates a layered safety architecture appropriate to its ambient pressure design. Upward thrust from the thrusters provides active positive ascent force. The electronic buoyancy control includes a manual override independent of the auto mode. The triple independent ballast tank system provides multiple paths to buoyancy adjustment. The reserve air system is a fully independent circuit. Manual drop weights provide a final mechanical emergency measure requiring no power or system function. The exit port is permanently open, allowing trained scuba diver occupants to exit and ascend under their own power at any time.

The computerised multi-level, multi-tissue dive monitor tracks depth, elapsed dive time, remaining time allowable at depth, and safe ceiling continuously throughout the dive. Audible alarms activate for ascent rate exceedance and decompression requirement, providing real-time guidance to the pilot on safe dive management in accordance with standard decompression tables.

Market Applications

The SportSub addresses a specific and underserved segment of the underwater tourism and recreational market. At small coastal resorts, dive centres, and marine attractions where a full pressure-hull tourist submarine is not financially or logistically viable, the SportSub provides a genuine submersible experience at a fraction of the capital cost and infrastructure requirement. The non-diver passenger capability makes it suitable for introductory and general tourist experiences, not solely scuba-qualified participants.

For scuba clubs and dive training facilities, the SportSub offers a distinct experience complementary to conventional scuba diving — enabling members to explore underwater terrain faster and further than swimming alone, and to carry a non-diver companion on the same dive. For private buyers, the vehicle’s road trailer transport and simplicity of operation make it one of the most practical personal submersibles available at this depth rating.

Operational Requirements and Infrastructure

The SportSub requires no specialist port infrastructure, crane, or slip for launch and recovery. It is transported on a road trailer towable by a standard vehicle and towed offshore to the dive site by a suitable small boat. Shore-side requirements consist of facilities for air tank refilling or replacement and battery charging with a standard marine-grade automatic charger. Dive operations should be planned in accordance with standard recreational diving protocols — including surface interval management, air logistics, and decompression table compliance for the chosen depth profile.

Operator certification requirements will vary by jurisdiction. In many markets, operation of an ambient pressure wet submersible of this type falls within recreational dive operator licensing frameworks rather than commercial submarine certification. Prospective operators should confirm local regulatory requirements before committing to purchase. Silvercrest Submarines can advise on operational and regulatory considerations based on the intended deployment location.

Why Choose the SportSub

Among commercially available wet submersibles at this depth rating, the SportSub’s combination of non-diver passenger capability, five-knot speed, five-viewport visibility, multi-redundant safety systems, and road trailer portability represents a well-rounded operational package. The computerised dive monitor and electrical fault alarm system provide a level of systems awareness beyond basic scuba equipment, supporting safer and more manageable dive operations. The vehicle is immediately available in excellent, dive-ready condition.

Why Silvercrest Submarines

Silvercrest Submarines has been advising on, operating, and supplying submersible platforms of all types for over 30 years. From high-capacity tourist submarines operated in the Indian Ocean to luxury vessels deployed aboard two of the world’s largest super yachts, and from Royal Navy DSRV operations to Arctic ice-pack diving, the company’s operational experience spans the full range of manned submersible categories. That breadth of experience is available to every buyer — whether purchasing a compact personal vehicle like the SportSub or a full 48-passenger tourist submarine operation. Enquiries are handled personally by the Silvercrest Submarines team, with practical operational knowledge informing every conversation.

Next Steps for Interested Buyers

The SportSub is available for immediate sale. Price is on application. Use the enquiry button on this page to contact the Silvercrest Submarines team directly — your message will include details of this listing so we can respond with relevant information promptly. We welcome enquiries from resort operators, dive centres, scuba clubs, and private buyers, and are happy to discuss training requirements, site suitability, and operational considerations as part of the initial conversation.

This Submarine Is Ideal For:

Small Coastal Resort Operators

For resort operators at coastal locations where a full pressure-hull tourist submarine is not financially viable, the SportSub provides a genuine submersible experience at a fraction of the capital cost. The non-diver passenger capability means the experience is accessible to general tourists without scuba certification, creating a commercially viable introductory attraction. Road trailer transport eliminates the need for specialist marine infrastructure, making deployment practical at sites where a conventional submarine could never operate. Silvercrest Submarines can advise on operational structure, pricing models, and site requirements for resort buyers considering the platform.

Scuba Dive Centres and Clubs

Dive centres and scuba clubs seeking to differentiate their offering with an underwater vehicle experience will find the SportSub a practical and engaging addition. At five knots, the vehicle covers ground significantly faster than swimming, enabling exploration of dive sites at range during a single session. The ability to carry a non-diver passenger opens the experience to accompanying family members and resort guests who would not otherwise qualify for scuba activities. The road trailer launch system fits naturally into existing small-boat dive operations without requiring new infrastructure or additional licensing in most jurisdictions.

Dive Training Facilities

For dive training schools, the SportSub offers a structured underwater vehicle programme complementary to conventional diver training. The computerised dive monitor and real-time decompression display make it a useful training tool for depth management and multi-level dive planning. Instructor and student can conduct the dive together in the vehicle, allowing direct observation and coaching of dive monitor management and buoyancy control in a controlled context. Silvercrest Submarines’ pilot training course supports new operators in establishing in-house training capability.

Private Buyers and Super Yacht Owners

For private buyers seeking a personal submersible deployable from a super yacht, house boat, or coastal property, the SportSub’s 565 kg dry weight and road trailer portability make it one of the most practical options at 40 metres depth. No crane is required for launch — a small RIB or sport boat provides adequate tow capability. The non-diver passenger provision means owners can share the experience with guests who do not hold dive qualifications, adding versatility to private use. Silvercrest Submarines has experience placing luxury submersibles aboard two of the world’s largest super yachts and can advise on deck integration and support considerations.

Marine Tourism Operators Seeking Low-Infrastructure Entry

For marine tourism businesses exploring submersible operations for the first time, the SportSub represents the most accessible entry point in the Silvercrest Submarines inventory. With no specialist port requirement, no pressure-hull certification process, and a straightforward operational profile comparable to a managed scuba dive, the operational learning curve is manageable for experienced dive operators moving into vehicle-based offerings. The training course available at purchase provides the foundation for safe and confident operation from the outset.

Summary of Core Facts

  • Genuine 40-metre depth rating in the most compact and transportable package in the Silvercrest Submarines inventory
  • Non-diver passenger capability — general tourists can participate without scuba certification
  • Road trailer transport — no crane, no slip, no specialist marina required
  • Five-knot top speed — far greater range and speed than scuba divers alone
  • Hand-laid GRP construction with stainless steel and engineered plastic components
  • Fly-by-wire joystick control with two independently variable-thrust thrusters
  • Electronic buoyancy control (auto/off/manual) with fly-by-wire auto-hover capability
  • Three independent ballast tanks for precise trim and buoyancy management
  • Independent reserve air system — fully separate from primary supply circuit
  • Manual drop weights as final mechanical emergency ascent — no power required
  • Computerised multi-tissue dive monitor with decompression status and ascent alarm
  • Comprehensive electrical fault alarm system — battery, power module, thruster wiring
  • Exit port permanently open — trained diver occupants can exit and re-enter freely
  • Currently in excellent condition and dive ready
  • Pilot training course available at purchaser’s local dive site

Additional Information

What Is an Ambient Pressure Wet Submersible?

Unlike one-atmosphere submarines where occupants remain in a sealed pressurised cabin, the SportSub is an ambient pressure design. Occupants breathe compressed air from onboard scuba tanks and are exposed to water pressure at depth, in the same way as scuba divers. This means dive duration is governed by decompression tables and air consumption rather than battery or life support endurance. The design significantly reduces manufacturing complexity and cost compared to pressure-hull vessels, whilst still delivering a genuine underwater vehicle experience with far greater range and depth control than swimming alone.

Operational Profile and Dive Duration

The SportSub’s dive duration is approximately three hours, limited by dive table constraints at its operating depth of 40 metres. The onboard computerised dive monitor tracks multi-level, multi-tissue decompression status throughout the dive and provides real-time guidance on remaining allowable bottom time and safe ascent ceiling. Primary air is supplied by two 80 cubic foot scuba tanks, with an independent 80 cubic foot reserve tank providing an additional safety margin. Operators should plan dive sequences with surface intervals and air logistics as for conventional scuba operations.

Safety Architecture

The SportSub incorporates multiple independent safety systems. Upward thrust provides positive emergency ascent force. The electronic buoyancy control system includes a manual override. Triple independent ballast tanks — forward, cockpit, and aft — can be managed individually. Manual drop weights provide a final mechanical emergency ascent capability independent of all electrical systems. The exit port remains open throughout the dive, allowing trained scuba divers to exit and re-enter freely. An independent reserve air system operates entirely separately from the primary supply. An electrical fault alarm system monitors battery voltage, power module status, joystick module status, and thruster wiring continuity.

Resort and Commercial Applications

The SportSub’s compact dimensions, road trailer transport capability, and accessible passenger experience make it well suited to small tourist resort operations, scuba clubs, dive centres, and individual operators. Non-divers can participate as passenger without certification, broadening the potential visitor market. Its simple launch and recovery by road trailer and small boat tow removes the need for specialist port or marina infrastructure, enabling deployment at coastal locations where full submarine infrastructure would not be viable. Silvercrest Submarines can advise on operational setup, training, and site requirements for prospective operators.

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