DISCOVERING THE PLATYPUS: A REVOLUTIONARY NAUTICAL EXPERIENCE
The Platypus is a semi-submersible electric boat that does what no conventional vessel can: it allows passengers to dive below the surface without tanks, wetsuits, or diving certifications, then return to surface cruising speed without leaving the boat. Developed by Platypus Craft in partnership with electric outboard specialist Evoy, it represents one of the most genuinely original concepts in modern nautical design.
How the Platypus Works
The Platypus uses a trimaran layout with a central passenger nacelle connected to its floats by tilting hydraulic arms. When submerging, the arms lower the central pod up to 2 meters below the waterline while the floats remain on the surface, giving passengers an uninterrupted view of the underwater environment through large panoramic windows. The Platypus Breathing System supplies air via retractable hoses connected to an onboard compressor and special facemasks, eliminating the need for scuba tanks and making underwater experience accessible to anyone, regardless of dive training.
Three Models for Different Use Cases
Platypus Craft offers three configurations. The Sanctuary model is the entry-level platform designed for environmental research, marine survey work, and professional maritime applications. The Tourer sits in the middle, balancing functionality with comfort for guided tour operators and private coastal exploration. The Yacht Edition is the flagship: it accommodates 11 passengers on the surface and submerges five at a time, features a waterproof digital dashboard, a digital periscope, GPS positioning, an open cockpit section, and starts at approximately $490,000. Each model includes underwater LED lighting, stainless steel fittings, and a full suite of safety and communication instruments.
Specifications and Performance
The Platypus measures 8.40 meters in length and 2.95 meters in beam, with a base capacity for up to 12 passengers on the surface and up to six during underwater operation. Power comes from twin Evoy Outboard Breeze 120+ electric motors paired with a 63 kWh dual battery pack. On the surface, the Platypus cruises at 15 knots and can reach 25 knots at full power. With the pod lowered, underwater speed ranges from 4 to 8 knots depending on the model, appropriate for safe exploration at depth. Battery range is estimated at 30 to 80 nautical miles per charge depending on use mode. The prototype has been operational since 2021, accumulating data from environmental expeditions before the current production models became available for purchase.
Environmental and Commercial Applications
The dual surface and underwater capability makes the Platypus particularly attractive to marine research institutions, eco-tourism operators, and coastal conservation programs. Being fully electric, it operates without the underwater noise and fuel pollution that affects marine ecosystems near conventional vessels. Several models have entered service for environmental monitoring work, and the Yacht Edition variant has drawn interest from the private luxury charter market as a genuinely novel guest experience.
For those drawn to the intersection of performance and the water, TheArsenale's collection includes some of the most extraordinary watercraft available. Explore the TheArsenale watersport collection or discover the boats collection. Highlights include the SAY29 Runabout Yacht and the Super Yacht Sub 3 by U-Boat Worx.
Photo: Platypus Craft
Sources: Designboom | New Atlas
