Hydraulic drive systems are also available where the battery power is used to run a hydraulic pump unit and the hydraulic power rotates the propellers. The number of thrusters vary from 3 to 10. Tourist submarines are designed built and operated under strict classification society rules. Most common classification societies in submarine business are ABS and GL but also other societies are involved. Operation sites Most of the operation locations are situated at warm and clear ocean water sites.
Typical sites are tourist islands in Caribbean, Mediterranean and Pacific seas.
The actual operation area should be as sheltered as possible against the prevailing winds because tourist submarines can normally operate safely only in up to sea state 3. Operation crew Typically the larger vessels operate with a crew of three ie. All three are normally qualified pilots. Smaller subs can be operated by one pilot. The background for the pilots is either navigational or engineering training.