Submarines tend to be expensive, even if they are small. That’s because any sealed container full of humans presents problems with oxygen supply, CO2 removal and humidity.

Then when you stick that sealed container underwater in the form of a submarine, the problems multiply because of water pressure. The container (including its windows) has to be strong enough to handle depth, the container has to be able to dive and surface, the container must be leak-free, etc.

So what is the solution? First you could eliminate the “sealed” part of the container. Second you could eliminate the problems with pressure. Third you could eliminate the need for diving and surfacing. Almost all of the problems go away. That’s the idea behind a semi-submarine, as seen here:

The pontoons give the submersible part a fixed depth and allow it to remain at atmospheric pressure. The windows only have to handle the pressure seen at a depth of 8 feet or so.

See also:

Personal sub could be easiest, safest yet

We’re thinking super-safe leisure subs like these would be a huge hit at a resort, especially seaside marinas near coral reefs, with their colorful and bustling underwater wildlife. Just think, even people who can’t swim can enjoy the spectacular view.

Semi-submarines have been around since the 1990s, mostly in the form or larger boats seen in ocean resort areas. It’s an extension of the glass bottom boat idea that has been around for decades.

The glass is 1.5 inches thick.

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