You can go inside decommissioned military submarines like USS Nautilus at museums, take commercial sightseeing submarine tours such as those offered by Atlantis Submarines in Hawaii or the Caribbean, or visit submarine-themed attractions like the Submarine Force Museum in Groton, CT.
Where can I go inside a submarine?
Inside decommissioned military submarines on display at museums such as the USS Nautilus at the Submarine Force Museum in Groton, CT.
That museum sits just outside the gates of Sub Base New London. Best part? It’s free because the U.S. National Park Service runs it. You’ll walk through the submarine’s control room, engine spaces, and crew quarters. Honestly, this is the best way to see how the crew lived and operated during its 1954–1980 service. As of 2026, the Nautilus remains one of the most visited historic naval ships in the U.S.
Can you travel by submarine?
Yes, you can travel by submarine on commercial sightseeing tours and some private charters.
Atlantis Submarines and similar operators run underwater tours in battery-powered submarines. These usually dive to depths of 100–150 feet. Now, civilian subs won’t match the speed or range of military vessels. But modern battery-powered tourist subs give safe, regulated access to shallow reef ecosystems. Research into supercavitation technology may one day enable faster underwater travel, but it’s still experimental as of 2026.
How much does it cost to go on a submarine ride in Hawaii?
An adult ticket costs $124 and a child ticket costs $48 for a 45-minute Atlantis Submarines tour in Hawaii.
| Passenger Type | Price |
|---|
| Adult | $124.00 |
| Child (ages 3–12) | $48.00 |
Pricing may vary slightly by season or location as of 2026. Tickets include hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki, Oahu, plus a guided underwater tour of coral reefs and marine life. Check Atlantis Submarines for real-time availability and seasonal promotions.
Is Atlantis submarine Safe?
Yes, Atlantis Submarines are considered safe and have operated since 1988 with no major safety incidents.
The company uses battery-powered, air-conditioned submarines that emit no pollutants. They’re inspected regularly by maritime authorities and built to marine safety standards. Every vessel carries life support systems, including oxygen monitoring and emergency surfacing capabilities. Over 11 million passengers have ridden with Atlantis since its founding, with a strong safety record. As with any underwater excursion, guests should follow crew instructions and be free of contraindications for pressure-related travel.
How deep can a submarine go?
Military nuclear submarines typically dive to about 300 meters (984 feet), while deep-sea research and civilian tourist submarines usually operate between 30 and 150 meters (98–492 feet).
For comparison, the average depth of the world’s oceans is 3,790 meters (12,434 feet). The deepest point, Challenger Deep, reaches nearly 11,000 meters (36,000 feet). Only specialized deep-submergence vehicles like the DSV Limiting Factor can safely reach such depths. Most tourist submarines operate within regulated limits to ensure passenger safety and environmental protection.
Are there any surviving ww2 submarines?
Yes, several World War II submarines survive as museum ships, including USS Tang, USS Pampanito, and USS Bowfin.
As of 2026, former crew members of these vessels—like William “Bill” Leibold, the last survivor of USS Tang—remain active in preserving their legacy. Many of these submarines are open to the public for tours, offering insight into life aboard a WWII sub. Check the National Park Service and USS Bowfin Museum for visiting opportunities and survivor interviews.
How fast does a submarine travel?
U.S. Navy nuclear-powered attack submarines can travel over 23 miles per hour (20 knots) submerged.
Some reports suggest certain classes may briefly reach 35 mph in optimal conditions, though official top speeds are typically classified or limited for operational safety. These speeds are achieved using nuclear propulsion, which allows sustained underwater travel without surfacing. Commercial tourist submarines operate at much slower speeds—around 3 to 5 mph—for safety and to reduce disturbance to marine life.
How much does it cost to go into a submarine?
Standard adult tours cost about $115 and include a one-hour underwater tour with premium seating and larger viewports.
Atlantis Submarines offers multiple locations, including Grand Cayman, Barbados, and Cozumel, with similar pricing. Smaller private or luxury submarine experiences may cost significantly more, ranging from $200 to over $1,000 per person. That depends on exclusivity and duration. Always confirm the tour length, depth, and amenities before booking.
How fast is a submarine mph?
The U.S. Navy’s Los Angeles-class submarines have an official top speed of 23 mph (20 knots) when submerged.
Unconfirmed reports suggest these vessels can briefly reach 35 mph under ideal conditions, though such speeds aren’t standard operating profiles. The speed is achieved through advanced propulsion and hydrodynamic design. For context, most commercial sightseeing submarines cruise at 3 to 5 mph to ensure passenger comfort and marine safety.
How deep does the Atlantis submarine go?
Atlantis Submarines typically operate at depths up to 100 feet (30 meters) during tours.
This depth gives safe, regulated access to vibrant coral reefs and marine ecosystems while keeping the submarine within recreational diving limits. The company’s vessels are rated for depths beyond 150 feet, but tours stay shallower to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact. All operations comply with local maritime and environmental regulations.
Who owns Atlantis submarines?
Atlantis Submarines International, Inc., is led by President Dennis Hurd.
The company operates a fleet of passenger submarines in Grand Cayman, Barbados, St. Lucia, Cozumel, and Maui. They also offer private charters in some locations. As of 2026, the fleet totals over 10 vessels, collectively carrying millions of passengers since 1988. Check Atlantis Submarines International for leadership updates and corporate details.
How long is the Atlantis submarine ride?
Each Atlantis Submarines tour lasts 45 minutes.
That includes boarding, descent, underwater exploration, and return to the dock. The experience is air-conditioned and narrated by a trained guide, with large viewports for optimal viewing. As of 2026, the tour covers a 25-acre natural coral reef in Maui, with similar ecosystems explored in other locations. Check local listings for seasonal variations or extended charter options.
Does Atlantis Submarine have a bathroom?
No, Atlantis Submarines do not have bathrooms onboard.
Due to space constraints in the pressure hull and transfer boat, guests must use restrooms at the Atlantis retail store or dockside facilities before boarding. This policy applies to all locations. Allow time for restroom use prior to boarding to avoid delays. No exceptions are made during the tour.
How much is the cheapest submarine?
The least expensive civilian sub starts around $30,000.
SportSub and similar manufacturers offer entry-level recreational submarines in the $30,000–$60,000 range. These are designed for calm coastal waters and short trips. They’re typically open-cockpit or semi-enclosed models with limited amenities. Larger or more capable private submarines can cost $100,000 to over $2 million. Always verify seaworthiness, registration, and local operating laws before purchase.
Is it illegal to own a submarine?
No, it is not illegal to own a submarine in most countries, including the U.S.
However, ownership, operation, and registration are subject to national maritime laws and safety regulations. In the U.S., private submarines must comply with U.S. Coast Guard requirements, including navigation rules, safety equipment, and vessel documentation. Some countries may restrict ownership or require special permits. Always consult local maritime authorities and legal counsel before purchasing or operating a private submarine.
