Nowhere is this more obvious than with the proposal for the world’s first luxury super submarine, the Migaloo M5 we discussed a short while back. The M5 has been around in some form or another (but always as a concept) for several years now, and the latest iteration is the most outrageous, luxurious, and future-proof. It’s also the most expensive, but since we’re talking about a concept, simply looking at it doesn’t cost anything.
Migaloo is an Austrian-based startup slash design studio that promises to deliver the future of yachting in a new and unexpected form factor, that of a submersible megayacht. The M5 is just that: an enormous vessel that qualifies as a megayacht when sailing on the surface of the water and a submarine when it dives, offering complete protection, privacy, and megayacht-like amenities to its wealthy guests.
The latest iteration comes at a moment in time when fears of a global war are again at their highest, which probably explains the attention it got. For the record, Migaloo is no closer to building such a vessel today than it was when it first introduced the concept, even saying that such a project needs a wealthy patron and a lot more time to even get off the ground properly.
But that’s not to say that Migaloo isn’t doing everything it can to explore this avenue further. After all, a generous multi-billionaire with at least $2 billion to spare might be around the corner as we speak, scrolling online for his dream “boat.” It’s best if Migaloo has everything planned out for when he does.
The M5 we discussed is a 165.8-meter (544-foot) megayacht that becomes a submarine with an operational dive depth of 250 meters (820 feet), hybrid propulsion, and the most insane amenities we’ve seen, including on the megayachts we’ve covered. Among luxury features, toys, and exploration gear, it comes with at least two matching tenders that, we believe, are worthy of attention on their own.
The Migaloo LST, where the initials stand for Limo Sub Tender, is the smallest and most recent entry in Migaloo’s portfolio, yet it plays an essential part in whatever they imagine the future will hold. Since they’re in the business of designing submarines, they couldn’t put regular dinghies onboard, so that’s how the LST came to be.
The LST is a submarine and a tender at the same time, offering space for guests and cargo but also features and interior styling worthy of the mothership. Total length is 17.0 meters (55.7 feet), with a beam of 3.9 meters (12.7 feet) and a draft of 3.3 meters (10.8 feet), which is just enough to accommodate 10 to 12 people and a small crew of 3.
M5 Submarine: The Ultimate in Privacy
In the world of luxury submarines, the M5 reigns supreme. But now, there’s a new contender on the scene – the LST. Like its predecessor, the LST offers maximum privacy, allowing guests to come and go without anyone on land knowing their whereabouts. With a maximum depth of 250 meters (820 feet), this submarine is designed for underwater transfers of guests and goods.
But the LST doesn’t just stop at functionality. Built with a double hull design and made of steel, this submarine is packed with features. It boasts a retractable sunroof that transforms the main lounge into the main deck, a mini bar, and a command center at the stern. Remote steering is also a possibility, adding to the convenience and ease of use.
Once submerged, the LST offers breathtaking views through its large acrylic bow window. The 12-person lounge provides the perfect space to relax, enjoy a drink, and take in the beauty of the surroundings. And with two side hatches for underwater docking and an elevator-to-surface hatch, getting in and out of the submarine is a breeze.
Powered by hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, the LST is just as fast as its mothership. It can travel at 20 knots (23 mph/37 kph) on the water surface and 12 knots (14 mph/22 kph) when submerged. Safety is also a top priority, with maximum depth protection and life support systems in place. However, it’s important to note that these safety features and certification are dependent on the submarine actually being built.
While there are currently no plans to build the LST, it’s still fun to imagine what a $2 billion submarine decked out in marble and gold would look like. And to complete the picture, the LST would have a tender that matches its luxurious style. With gold finishes, glossy metal accents, and statement furniture, this submarine would be the epitome of extravagance.
So, while the LST may only exist in our imaginations for now, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities. Who knows what the future holds for luxury submarines?
