U-Boat Worx celebrates 20th anniversary with 60 submarines in operation worldwide
by U-Boat Worx 24 Jun 08:37 BST
U-Boat Worx factory © Tom van Oossanen
U-Boat Worx, the global leader in private, research, and cruise industry submersibles, proudly marks its 20th anniversary in 2025.
Since its founding in 2005, the company has redefined underwater exploration, delivering 60 state-of-the-art submarines for various operations across the globe.
From its first dive to becoming the global standard in submersible technology, U-Boat Worx has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, design, and safety in the underwater space.
Two decades of exploration
For twenty years, U-Boat Worx has led the way in making the ocean accessible. As the first to produce manned submersibles in series, the company set a new benchmark — not just in quality, efficiency, and scalability, but in making deep-sea exploration more accessible than ever before.
"Since inception, the company has logged tens of thousands of dive hours," said Wilbert Beilsma, Commercial Director at U-Boat Worx. "It is a testament to the safety, reliability, and global trust in its technology. With submarines actively operating in every ocean, the company supports a truly international clientele through service hubs in Curaçao, Europe, and the U.S., and offers full lifecycle support including upgrades, maintenance, pilot training, and spare parts even for first-generation models still in operation today."
Engineering for the future, built to last
Innovation is core to the U-Boat Worx DNA. The company was the first to integrate full acrylic pressure domes, lithium-ion battery systems, and operating systems that provide intuitive, game-changing piloting for both seasoned and new operators. Every model is built with longevity in mind, with many early units still diving today — underscoring a commitment to unmatched durability and technical excellence.
Flexible ownership for every mission
U-Boat Worx offers a range of ownership and operational models tailored to meet diverse needs:
- Full ownership: Ideal for private owners or research institutions.
- Leasing: Flexible fixed-term options with service included.
- Wet Lease (Sub + Crew): A turnkey solution for medium- to long-term use.
- Charter: Designed for operators seeking to build a revenue-generating dive business.
Trusted across industries
U-Boat Worx submersibles are trusted by explorers, scientists, commercial operators, and luxury yacht owners alike. From deep-sea research and marine conservation to bespoke superyacht experiences, the company brings together function, elegance, and unmatched underwater performance. U-Boat Worx is also renowned for seamless superyacht integration, making it the partner of choice for many of the world's most iconic vessels.
With every dive, we uncover more of the estimated 80% of the ocean that remains unexplored by humans — offering new insights, experiences, and opportunities with each mission below the surface.
Looking ahead
With two decades of experience, U-Boat Worx is now exploring applications beyond traditional markets, including the defence sector — leveraging its proven design and manufacturing capabilities to support specialized subsea operations.
"As we celebrate 20 years of underwater innovation, we remain driven by the same spirit that launched our first submersible," said Roy Heijdra, Marketing Director at U-Boat Worx.
"With each dive, we continue to push the limits of what's possible below the surface — delivering safety, performance, and beauty in every vessel we build. Above all, our mission remains to make the underwater world accessible to everyone."