After the OceanGate Titan submersible disaster captured national attention nearly a year ago, another determined entrepreneur is gearing up for a similar journey. Larry Connor, a billionaire businessman from Ohio, recently disclosed his plans to The Wall Street Journal, aiming to demonstrate that a dive to the Titanic wreckage site can be safely accomplished with proper engineering.
Following the news of the Titan’s suspected implosion in June 2023, Connor reached out to Triton Submarines’ CEO Patrick Lahey, seeking to develop a more reliable submersible for such endeavors. Lahey, who had criticized OceanGate’s safety practices, recounted Connor’s proposal to build a sub capable of repeated and safe dives to Titanic-level depths.
Larry Connor, known for his entrepreneurial ventures and past explorations to places like the Mariana Trench and International Space Station, aims to showcase the potential of deep-sea exploration when approached with caution. He envisions the upcoming trip as an opportunity to highlight the wonders of the ocean while emphasizing safety.
The expedition will utilize Triton Submarines’ Abyss Explorer, a state-of-the-art submersible boasting the title of the world’s deepest diving acrylic sub. Priced at $20 million, this two-person craft can descend over 13,000 feet, providing a robust platform for underwater exploration.
Accompanied by Triton’s CEO Patrick Lahey, Connor plans to embark on this mission of discovery. The collaboration between Connor and Triton signifies a concerted effort to push the boundaries of deep-sea exploration while prioritizing safety and innovation.
As preparations for the voyage unfold, attention remains on the tragic fate of the OceanGate Titan submersible. The vessel, carrying five passengers including OceanGate’s CEO Stockton Rush, met a catastrophic end on its journey to the Titanic wreckage site, leading to a large-scale rescue operation and devastating loss. Connor’s upcoming expedition represents a renewed commitment to advancing underwater exploration while learning from past challenges.