Sub Sea Systems: Transforming Marine Tourism with Innovative Experiences
Sub Sea Systems, Inc. (SSS) is a company that focuses on creating immersive, memorable, and hands-on encounters that educate through entertainment. They have shared insights into their history, mission, and the latest products they offer.
Since its inception in 1985, SSS has been a pioneer in marine tourism innovation, revolutionising underwater exploration for non-divers, non-swimmers, and thrill-seekers around the globe. Founded by ocean enthusiasts in California, the family-owned company aims to broaden access to ocean recreation in both entertaining and educational ways. SSS has established itself as a leader in the underwater tourism sector, offering a range of products from semi-submersible boats and interactive underwater helmets to VR snorkelling experiences.
The History of Sub Sea Systems
In 1987, the founders of Sub Sea Systems made significant strides by patenting the SNUBA shallow-water diving system. This innovation bridged the gap between snorkelling and scuba diving, allowing tourists to explore the underwater world without needing the skills or time required for traditional diving.
The company expanded its reach in 1989 with the launch of the Nautilus I, later renamed Sea Dancer, which became the first Coast Guard-approved semi-submersible in US waters. Operating continuously in Maui, Hawaii, for over 30 years, this vessel was a remarkable engineering feat, offering a unique view of the underwater world through its large windows, making underwater sightseeing both accessible and comfortable. Between 1989 and 2002, SSS produced 21 semi-submersibles to meet the growing demand for immersive marine experiences.
In 1999, SSS introduced the SeaTREK helmet diving system, providing a guided underwater experience for those not certified to dive. SeaTREK quickly gained popularity, with over 3.5 million experiences recorded at more than 50 locations across 25 countries, including famous sites like SeaWorld Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.
Key Products
As SSS evolved, so did its array of innovative products. In 2003, the company launched “Aviator,” the first-ever winged submersible designed to “fly” underwater to depths of 1,500 feet.
Recently, SSS has continued to push the boundaries of marine tourism innovation with products that blend adventure and relaxation in the underwater realm. The Clear Lounge, introduced in 2015, is the world’s first underwater oxygen bar, while the Aquaticar, patented in 2017, offers a theme park-like experience powered by air bubbles.
The inaugural Aquaticar system was commissioned by Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya Aquarabia Water Theme Park, showcasing SSS’s global influence and the appeal of its eco-friendly designs. This unique attraction received top honours at blooloop’s Innovations Awards for its innovative ride concept and Bubble Engine technology.
Another notable offering is DIVR+, developed in partnership with Ballast Technologies in 2020. This virtual reality snorkelling system features haptic feedback for an immersive experience, allowing resort guests to explore virtual coral reefs and underwater worlds directly from their hotel pools. The DIVR+ system has already captivated visitors in the US and Brazil, highlighting SSS’s ability to merge technology with experiential design.
SolarCat is a solar-electric powered chaise lounge designed for two or more people, featuring recessed dual motors and propellers. It is user-friendly, allowing for easy steering with rudderless directional force.
Other exciting concepts include Kaimana, a design for a freestanding underwater gaming arena that combines SeaTREK and DIVR+ activities in a single pool, featuring changeable games and challenge courses, such as an underwater maze and a target shooting game using patented bubble blasters.
A New Era
In 2023, Sub Sea Systems launched Sub Sea Creative, a consulting and design division that leverages its extensive marine engineering expertise to create imaginative underwater exhibits and engaging aquarium attractions. This initiative reflects SSS’s commitment to storytelling and visitor interaction, helping facilities worldwide craft personalised experiences that showcase the ocean’s wonders.
As a proud family-owned and operated business across two generations, SSS prioritises integrity, high-quality American craftsmanship, and accessibility in its operations. The company’s dedication to environmental stewardship and its passion for sharing the ocean with others remain core principles. SSS’s founders continue to advocate for underwater accessibility, inspiring a new generation of ocean ambassadors who appreciate the sea’s beauty and biodiversity.
With a third generation ready to join the family business, SSS is excited about future innovations that will redefine the exploration of the ocean depths.
Attendees at the upcoming IAAPA Expo 2024 in Orlando can learn more and meet the Sub Sea Systems team at booth #1654.
