Virgin launches luxury submarine

Virgin Limited Edition, the luxury arm of Sir Richard Branson’s business empire, is launching a specially commissioned submarine.

The Necker Nymph, which launches on 20 February, is a three-person submarine that will be available to hire for people who charter the Necker Belle luxury catamaran or who stay on Necker Island, the Caribbean island owned by Branson.

The Necker Nymph will be available at a weekly rate of $25 000 (£15 000).

The submarine has been designed by Graham Hawkes of San Francisco-based submarine specialist Hawkes Ocean Technologies. Hawkes was personally commissioned by Branson, according to a spokeswoman for VLE.

VLE says the Necker Nymph uses a downward ‘lift’ on the wings to fly down to depth, unlike traditional submarines, which use ballast to sink in the water.

Individual wind shields remove the pressure of slipstream, while transparent cockpits provide near-360º views.

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  • stephen russell November 30, -0001 at 12:00 am

    Love to see this expanded for Hawaii, PR, FL,
    Med Sea, Australia alone.
    How neat.
    Must for Cancun Mexico & Belize Blue Hole

  • Don Reynerson November 30, -0001 at 12:00 am

    As an engineer- naval architect I find this interesting. Hopefully many more will be deployed…watch out for ambulance chasers !!!!!

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