8 Harrowing Facts Shared by Titanic Sub's Previous Passengers

The recent disappearance of the Titan deep-sea submersible, carrying five people on a voyage to explore the wreckage of the Titanic, has captured the world's attention. And past passengers who have embarked on similar deep-sea excursions have come forward to share their thrilling and sometimes harrowing experiences. These intrepid travelers talked to Wall Street Journal to shed light on the extreme risks involved in exploring the ocean's depths and provide insights into the unique and exhilarating world of deep-sea submersible expeditions. Here are eight surprising facts shared by previous passengers of the Titanic submersible:

Prior to boarding the Titan, all passengers were required to sign a waiver that explicitly mentioned the risk of death multiple times. The seriousness of these deep-sea expeditions was evident from the start, with travelers fully aware of the potential dangers involved.

Descending into the depths of the ocean aboard the Titan meant leaving the safety of the surface behind. Passengers described the chilling experience of watching sunlight fade away and being surrounded by pitch-black waters, illuminated only by the ethereal glow of luminescent sea creatures visible through a small porthole.

Once inside the Titan, passengers realized there was no easy way out. With the hatch securely bolted shut from the outside, they understood that they were on their own in case of an emergency. The feeling of isolation and self-reliance added to the extreme nature of the journey.

Despite the clear risks, previous travelers emphasized the allure and excitement of reaching such incredible ocean depths. The discomfort and unease were overshadowed by the unparalleled opportunity to witness the Titanic shipwreck up close and join the exclusive group of individuals who have seen it with their own eyes.

The privilege of embarking on a deep-sea submersible expedition comes at a steep cost. Tourists are required to pay $250,000 for the experience and undergo comprehensive training to prepare for the dive. This investment underscores the exclusive nature of these trips and the dedication of those who embark on them.

Passengers onboard the Titan maintained communication with the crew on the ocean's surface through text messages. This connection provided a sense of reassurance and support as they descended into the depths, knowing that help was available should the need arise.

Surprisingly, passengers did not feel claustrophobic inside the Titan, despite its compact size, which has been compared to that of a minivan without seats. The simplicity of the vessel's design, with passengers shifting their weight to control its tilt, was described as comforting and basic.

The challenging nature of the expedition was evident in the unreliable compass and minimal facilities onboard. Previous passengers reported malfunctioning equipment and basic amenities, such as a rudimentary toilet consisting of a bag and a bottle. The extreme temperature variations, from sweltering heat at the surface to bone-chilling cold at the ocean's depths, added to the overall discomfort.

While the disappearance of the Titan has raised questions about the safety and viability of deep-sea submersible missions, past passengers maintain that the risks were clear from the beginning. They acknowledge the extraordinary nature of these expeditions and the profound impact of exploring the mysteries of the deep. As the search continues for the missing submersible, the world remains captivated by the bravery and resilience of those who dare to venture into the abyss in pursuit of knowledge and adventure.