While luxury expedition cruises haven’t reached the point of taking travelers to space, they do offer the next best thing: exploring the vast, mysterious depths of the ocean. The Scenic Neptune II submersible is just one of many underwater excursions now available through high-end cruise lines like Scenic, Seabourn, and Viking. These submersibles, often called submarines, can take small groups of six to eight passengers down to depths between 100 and 300 meters. The dives last around 30 to 45 minutes and have become so popular that some travelers even book more than one dive during the same trip if slots are available. Of course, at $499 per person, it’s not cheap, but that’s nothing compared to the $4.4 million price tag for a U-Boat Worx Submarine, like the ones used by Viking.
Despite the excitement surrounding these expeditions, the tragic Titan submersible disaster from June 2023 still lingers in people’s minds. Cruise operators are eager to emphasize the differences between their sightseeing trips and the ill-fated Titan, which was attempting to reach a wreckage site at a much greater depth. Seabourn’s Vice President, Robin West, recalls how he was off the coast of Greenland the day the world learned the Titan had imploded. Even with the grim news, West’s team still took 40 guests down in their submersibles, and none of the passengers seemed worried about safety.
The price of diving with Seabourn ranges from $500 to $1,000 per person, and passengers can rest easy knowing the submersibles are operated by skilled pilots. The subs also undergo routine inspections and certifications to ensure they’re in top condition. These vessels come equipped with numerous safety measures, including life support systems that can sustain passengers for days if necessary. There’s also a “dead man’s switch” that automatically brings the submersible back to the surface, and ROV drones are available to tow a sub or free it from any underwater obstacles.
The destinations offered on these luxury expeditions vary depending on the cruise line and the time of year. Travelers can explore places like Antarctica, the Arctic regions of Greenland and Canada, the South Pacific, and even the Great Lakes. Some dives offer views of shipwrecks, while others focus on the smaller wildlife beneath the waves. Depending on the location, guests might encounter creatures like krill, corals, sea stars, urchins, and even fish or crabs. On occasion, lucky divers may spot penguins or seals, adding to the thrill of the experience.
These underwater journeys provide a rare opportunity to see the ocean’s hidden world up close, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a top-tier cruise. For those seeking adventure but not quite ready for outer space, exploring the Earth’s oceans offers an unforgettable alternative. The safety precautions and expert oversight help ensure that while passengers might be stepping into the unknown, they’re doing so with peace of mind.
