Visit the Titanic

Detailed description

You will journey to the wreck of the Titanic aboard the MIR I or II submersibles.They are capable of reaching ocean depths of 20,000 feet (6,000m).This means they can reach 98% of the ocean floor worldwide. Constructed of nickel steel, they are designed to withstand the enormous pressures at these ocean depths.

The MIRs accommodate one pilot and two passengers. Air pressure inside the cabin remains at a constant one atmosphere: the air is recycled in a manner similar to that used on board spacecraft. During the dive there will be a drop in temperature and some slight internal condensation. Following a final briefing, you’ll enter the submersible, and the Keldysh on-board crane will lift the MIRs into the ocean.

After pre-dive testing, ballast water will be pumped into the tanks and you’ll begin your descent at a rate of 100 feet (31m) per minute. A seven inch (18cm) thick acrylic view port will be your window to the undersea world. Beyond 800 feet (250m) all traces of sunlight will be gone and you will be immersed in total darkness.To conserve power, the MIR submersible descend without external lights. However the pilot will, at times, switch them on to observe passing marine life.

Even in the darkness, the ocean is alive. Be sure to look for bioluminescent creatures, whose glowing characteristics require no illumination to be seen. By 3,000 feet (950m) the interior of the MIR will start to cool and topside the Keldysh will help navigate the MIR to the wreck site, 12,465 feet (3,800m) below the ocean surface. We expect your dive duration to be approximately 11 to 12 hours.

Illuminated by the powerful lights of the submersible your viewing port will be filled with images of the RMS Titanic.The bright lights will pick up her huge anchors, larger than the submersible, and the capstans, the bridge and the famous grand staircase, all nestled amongst rivers of rust as the ocean slowly consumes the grand old lady.You’ll see the ship’s telemotor, the massive boilers, the propellers and the Marconi Room, from which the world’s very first SOS was broadcast.

Amongst thousands of tonnes of twisted and corroding metal you may catch a glimpse of articles of a personal nature such as ships bags or small ladies shoes, graphic and solemn reminders of the human loss. The MIRs have powerful and long lasting battery systems with more capacity than any other deep diving submersible to enable your exploring to continue throughout the day.

Upon completion of your diving mission, ballast water will be pumped out and the MIR will begin its ascent.With the help of acoustical transponders the pilot will co-ordinate carefully with the Keldysh to navigate safely back to the ocean surface, where your submersible is lifted back onboard and greeted with suitable celebrations.