About Your Dive

How much space is there in the submersible?
Aboard the Dual Deepworker, the individual passenger will be comfortably seated in a chair similar in size to an airline seat, with the viewing sphere above. There will be "elbow room," but not storage space aside from the person's lap. The pilot will be seated beside the passenger. There is only storage available for camera cases.

How much total time will I have in the submersible?
The exact time you will spend in the submersible will vary depending on the weather and what new sightings each expedition dive brings. Each dive will be approximately one hour in duration. Every participant will have the opportunity to experience an equal number of multiple dives.

What if I have to go the bathroom?
All participants will need to use the restroom prior to their dive. In case of an emergency, the submersible does carry temporary portable "man/woman-hour extender bottles" which allow you to deal with "non-serious" matters. These bottles are designed to be conveniently used in relatively confined spaces such as light aircraft, helicopters, and tents in inclement conditions, etc. There will be a supply of them on board. As for more "serious" matters, the submersible can return to the surface in a few minutes.

What will the temperature be during the dive? Will I need to bring special clothing?
The approximate temperature in the sub is between 55° and 65° degrees Fahrenheit. It is suggested that you dress in warm, comfortable, and loose fitting layered clothing in the submersibles. A list of suggested items can be found in the section entitled

What type of camera should I bring? How about special filters and lenses?
You can use a simple "point and click" type camera or you can use a more sophisticated 35mm camera with all of the various lenses.
A wide-angle lens is better than telephoto; 28 - 70 zoom is best.

Will I need to use a flash?
No, a flash is not needed for taking pictures of external subjects, as the submersible's external lights will light the area. A flash is suggested if you want to photograph the interior of the submersible.

What kind of film is the best? What speed?
Between 200 - 1000 ASA is suggested. 400 Ektachrome is the best.

Will the window be large enough for pictures? Will it be too thick?
The vision domes are quite large, which distinguish this submersible from others. The individual vision dome is 26 inches in diameter for the Dual DeepWorker. The dome's thickness will not affect the pictures' clarity, providing the lens face is parallel to the dome's surface.

Can I use my own video camera during the dive? Do I need special batteries for it or for my camera?
Any video camera will work in the submersibles. As a general rule, the smaller the better. Best results will be achieved with one of the new digital video cameras such as those offered by Sony and JVC. It is suggested that you bring several batteries with you, as there won't be anywhere to plug in your video cameras on board the submersible. At Ice Station Beechey, there will be electrical facilities available to charge the batteries. We suggest that you keep the batteries inside your jackets to keep the batteries warm.

Can I drive the submersible myself?
No.

Can I direct the lights or are they like headlights?
Lights on the submersible are affixed like the headlights on a car. The pilot can train the lights by manoeuvring the submersible.

Breadalbane PDF (371Kb)