Plans unveiled for £22m superyacht that can transform into submarine

A BOATBUILDER has unveiled designs for a £22million superyacht that can also travel underwater for four days.

U-Boat Worx says its Nautilus vessel will have a pool, bar and sundeck, yet be capable of diving to a depth of 200 metres.

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Named after the submarine in Jules Verne’s 1870 novel 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, the Nautilus has ten four-metre-wide windows offering “exceptional views”.

They explain: “Since Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea came out in 1870, people have been dreaming of a luxury yacht with dive capabilities.

“Since then, inventors produced a lot of impressive concepts. Unfortunately, not one of these designs has ever been realised.

“Being the world leader in the market for small submersibles, U-Boat Worx has now finally succeeded in engineering a realistic combination of luxury and safety in a fully certified private submersible.”

U-Boat Worx Chairman and Founder Bert Houtman says: “People that have decided to buy a yacht will now have to consider if their vessel of choice can also dive down to 200 metres.”

The Dutch designers say the sub mode has another advantage — it beats seasickness in rough waters.

“If the sea becomes too rough, “adds Mr Houtman. “You simply dive and continue your voyage in comfort. With the Nautilus, the yachting market will never be the same again.”