Aston Martin and Triton Submarines have teamed to
build probably the world's most stylish and luxurious way to dive beneath the
waves. Called Project Neptune, this two-passenger mini submarine looks like something
designed and developed by Q Branch for James Bond. Though to be fair, the
evildoers at Spectre might also appreciate a submersible that works a little
Aston flair into its design.
First announced last September, the Project Neptune
submarine has now been revealed in its final production format. Looking equal
parts speedboat and lunar rover, the design is dominated by a clear bubble
pressure hull that permits an expansive view of the watery world around you.
There is seating for three, with room for a pilot
and two passengers. The pilot seat is in the middle, positioned slightly behind
the two front passenger seats. Capable of diving to depths of 500 meters, the
submarine has a top speed of 5 knots — or not quite 6 miles per hour, for all
you non-nautical types. While that's not exactly DB11 territory, Florida-based
Triton says the the Project Neptune sub has roughly four times the acceleration
of the company's flagship model, the 3300/3 submersible.
Triton builds a wide range of subs, ranging from
pure utilitarian models that can dive to the deepest depths of the ocean floor,
to posh creations that cater to super-wealthy clientele with a spirit of
adventure. It goes without saying which customer base Project Neptune is meant
to entice.
If there is any doubt, simply peek inside. Forget
any images you might have had of vinyl seats and a maze of pipes and knobs
peppering the cabin. The seats are leather-trimmed with Aston Martin logos on
the backrests, while the rest of the interior is finished in lightweight carbon
fiber. "The interior is quintessentially Aston Martin," says John
Ramsay, chief technical officer at Triton Submarines. "The prototypes look
incredible, being simultaneously functional and beautiful."
Because you don't want to have the exact same
mini-sub as your neighbors — perish the thought — there will be three Designer
Specifications available. These have been created by the British automaker's
own design team, while further customization can be handled by Aston's bespoke
service, fittingly called Q by Aston Martin.
If you want to see the Project Neptune for yourself,
book some first-class accommodations for the next flight to Barcelona, Spain,
where the posh sub will be on display during this week's LYBRA Superyacht Show.
You might also get a glimpse of Aston's other water-bound creation, the
stunning 37-foot AM37 speedboat.
