BREDA, Netherlands — U-Boat Worx, a global leader in manned submersible technology, is opening the hatch to a new era of deep-sea tourism with its newly launched “Wet Lease” program. The initiative provides a fully managed, turnkey model that allows commercial operators to offer submarine experiences without owning a submersible or handling operations.
Founded in 2005 with a mission to democratize undersea access, U-Boat Worx is taking a significant step toward making deep-sea exploration available to a broader audience, beyond just scientists and high-budget adventurers. The Wet Lease model removes key operational and financial barriers that have traditionally limited access to submarine travel.
“This program is built around one promise: you bring in the guests, we take care of the rest,” said Wilbert Beilsma, Commercial Director of U-Boat Worx. “With our wet lease model, operators no longer need to worry about recruitment, training, technical upkeep, or regulatory hurdles.”
Targeted at luxury travel agents, cruise lines, charter yachts, and resort operators, the Wet Lease program includes full-service submarine management. U-Boat Worx supplies the submersible — ranging in size from two to seven seats — as well as certified crew and pilots, maintenance, permitting, compliance, and logistical support for dive operations.
All customers need to do is provide the guests; U-Boat Worx delivers the unforgettable underwater experience.
With more than 60 submarines operating worldwide and over 10,000 successful commercial dives to date, U-Boat Worx is widely recognized as the premier private submersible operator. Their fleet has supported both scientific missions and high-end tourism ventures, offering passengers a firsthand view of the deep ocean’s unexplored and mesmerizing ecosystems.
The experience offers more than thrills — it fosters a meaningful connection to marine environments. Guests descend below the waves to witness an untouched world few will ever see, inspiring awe and a deeper understanding of ocean conservation.
This Wet Lease program joins U-Boat Worx’s broader portfolio of financial and operational models designed to suit various business needs. These include outright purchases, financial and operational leases, and even fractional ownership. The Wet Lease model, however, is positioned as the most accessible option yet — an all-inclusive solution that brings submarine diving to new markets without long-term commitments or capital investment.
The timing is ideal. As luxury and experience-driven travel continue to trend upward, immersive activities like submarine diving are proving to be major draws for resorts and cruise lines looking to differentiate themselves.
“Guests today are looking for extraordinary experiences — something they can’t find anywhere else,” said Roy Heijdra, Marketing Manager at U-Boat Worx. “A submarine dive is the kind of bucket-list adventure that sets your destination apart. It creates buzz, drives word-of-mouth, and gives operators powerful content for their own marketing.”
With a reputation for innovation, reliability, and world-class engineering, U-Boat Worx is not only manufacturing vessels but also becoming a strategic partner to help clients offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The Wet Lease program is expected to expand submarine access across the tourism, conservation, and educational sectors.
For more information about U-Boat Worx and its new Wet Lease program, visit uboatworx.com.
