The Platypus Spearfish is a unique boat in that it is a catamaran with a detachable section that allows passengers to discover the seabed from a comfortable seated position. The Spearfish is the commercial version of the prototype presented in 2020 and tested since 2021 with the Blue Odyssey Initiative association, with which the Platypus observes and maps the seabed. Tests were carried out in Nouméa, Corsica and the south of France. In all, the Platypus has completed 700 hours of operation and covered 350 km in underwater mode.
The Platypus Spearfish is an 8.40 m-long motor catamaran with a central gondola that descends underwater for underwater observation. Depending on the version, between 4 and 6 people can be accommodated in the nacelle. The nacelle is completely open, but passengers breathe thanks to the Platypus Breathing System, with air supplied by the catamaran at the surface.
While some of the crew are out exploring underwater, the others can sunbathe in the comfort of a modern boat.
The catamaran has been designed to meet the needs of pleasure sailors, but also those of scientists and tourism professionals.
No diving experience necessary
No diving training is required, but for holders of diving certification, the Platypus Spearfish can be transformed into a diving platform, enabling them to explore the seabed around them independently and without a tank, to a depth of 15 m.
The catamaran can be powered by a choice of electric outboard motors or, as an option, by conventional thermal outboard motors. In diving mode, the boat and its submerged pod travel at a speed of 3 knots, while in surface mode, speeds can exceed 30 knots.
Autonomy in electric mode is between 6 and 12 hours, depending on the motorization and battery system chosen. Immersion takes around 30 seconds, and the manufacturer claims a diving autonomy of between 6 and 12 hours, depending on configuration.
The catamaran is now available for sale in three trim levels, Sanctuary, Tourer and Yacht Edition, with a much more extensive range of equipment, including an aft sundeck, an 8-speaker hi-fi system and an aft bimini with solar panels.
