Ever thought about the price tag attached to creating a gigantic underwater vessel?
In this piece we’re diving deep to explore just how much it did cost to build the titan submarine.
Submarines are fascinating machines combining complex engineering cutting-edge technology and stealth tactics.
The titan submarine specifically is a marvel that challenges our understanding of the underwater world.
Now hold your breath because the number might just surprise you!
Table of Contents
Cost Of Building The Titan Submarine
Carefully constructed by OceanGate the Titan submarine’s build cost is a much debated topic. While some suggest $350000 as the figure others point to $250000 USD which is its modern-day equivalent of $2.5 million.
These build costs involve a mix of high-tech and inexpensive tech materials. Among the Titan’s construction materials were carbon fibre and titanium deliberately chosen to make the submarine lighter than its counterparts.
Such materials contributed to its resilience in ocean depths of up to 4000 meters (13120 feet) while keeping a weight of 9525 kg (21000 lbs).
Investment In The Titan Submarine
The ambitious project of Titan submarine received a significant investment. A total of $18 million was invested in this craft reflecting its expected high performance safety and durability.
While the submersible was designed to explore the depths of the ocean including the tragic Titanic wreckage it was also intended for passenger usage. Paying customers were offered a unique experienceadventure tourism expeditions provided for a premium price.
A single seat price on the Titan submarine cost each customer £250000. This price high as deemed by some covered private accommodation training gear meals on board and the chance to explore the sunken ship.
It did not however include the airfare travel expenses hotels meals before departure or personal insurance of the passengers.
Construction Materials Of The Titan Submarine
The Titan submarine was built by OceanGate a prominent company in the field of underwater exploration. Stockton Rush CEO and founder was a significant figure behind its creation.
The primary materials used in the construction were carbon fiber and titanium. This made the Titan much lighter than typical submarines.
These materials were consciously selected following an $18 million investment and raised several questions. The use of carbon fiber was particularly queried.
The selection was strategic to ensure that the submarine was robust and fit for purpose.
A pressure vessel was incorporated designed in Boeing-standard conditions with the collaboration of NASA and the University of Washington. This vessel was vital for operations in the extreme pressures of the deep sea.
Other technical features included high-end cameras LED lights sonar navigation and electric thrusters.
Tragic Incident Involving The Titan Submarine
Tragedy struck on June 18 2023 during a descent to the notorious Titanic wreckage. The Titan submarine mysteriously disappeared marking a significant loss in the history of submersible exploration.
The submarine carried a total of five people including four passengers and a pilot. Among the passengers was Stockton Rush the CEO who helped build the submarine.
Guided search operations were initiated by the US Coast Guard and major pieces of the sub were discovered on June 22 2023 near the site.
The tragic event shocked the maritime exploration community as it marked the first fatality related to submersible activities in over 30 years.
Despite rigorous safety measures and modern design the fate of the missing vessels remained unknown. The incident highlighted the stark realities of navigating the depths of the ocean floor.
Price For Joining The Titanic Expedition
Being part of the Titanic expedition was a costly adventure. For the thrill of exploring the deep sea and the ill-fated Titanic wreckage passengers had to pay a hefty sum.
Each seat price in the Titan submarine was £250000.
The submarine designed to carry up to five people was an ambitious project launched by OceanGate. Among them were the four high-paying customers and a pilot for the operation.
This significant investment did not include other expenses either. Airfare travel expenses meals before departure hotels and personal insurance were not part of the package.
But what it did include was private accommodation meals on board the Titan submersible and comprehensive training. Necessary diving gear was also part of the deal.
Paying such a high cost was a dream for many. Passengers braved the danger not just for the undersea adventure but for the opportunity to view the Titanic site.
However this tragic expedition ended prematurely when the submarine vanished on June 18 2023 resulting in a dangerous and costly search and rescue mission.
