Level One
Introduction to Submarine Operations
Go Where Few People Have Gone…
Have you have ever wanted to enter the realm of undersea explorer or submersible pilot? Well, a unique and powerful opportunity has surfaced! Lionfish Central is proud to bring you this four day long class to experience the operations of a true undersea exploration vehicle, the submersible, Great White and learn how to be on our team as an Operations Crew Member and perhaps join our team on future expeditions.
The class brings you face-to-face with design, construction, operations and use of a research submersible taking you from the classroom to actually being inside the sub during water operations. The Great White has dived with Great White Sharks, hydrothermal vents, giant catfish, ancient forests submerged for thousands of years and lost shipwrecks operating in five different countries.
Introduction to Submersible Operations
A two-person manned submersible with an operational depth of 250 fsw with a max dive depth of 500 fsw. Electrically powered by three different electrical systems including the main thrusters of 72 volt 100 pound thrust motors with integral lithium batteries giving them a 4 hour duration at full throttle and 16 hours half throttle operational duration. The second electrical system is a 24 volt lithium battery bank of two batteries located on the stern providing power to the CO2 scrubber, lights, vertical thruster, and camera system & video recorder. The third and last electrical system is an internal 12 volt system operating the mission payload (i.e. the lionfish capture system).
Our Partner Location
Seacamp Association, Inc. is excited to partner with Lionfish Central to host their Level One Submarine Operations course/workshop. Seacamp is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to marine science education in Big Pine Key, FL. Their mission is to create awareness of the complex and fragile marine world and to foster critical thinking and informed decision making about man’s use of natural resources. What better union than helping to further the mission of Lionfish Central to make a positive difference in keeping our natural reef system and aquatic life from extinction and working to control invasive lionfish populations.
Since 1966, Seacamp has offered residential marine science programs that emphasize marine research and exploration using snorkeling and SCUBA skills as well as more traditional camp activities such as sailing, windsurfing, lifeguarding, and arts and crafts. During the summer of 2023, Seacamp will offer 15-day residential camp sessions to 12-17 year old campers, 6-day residential camp sessions to 10-17 year old campers and Daycamp programs to 10-13 year old campers. In 1970, the Newfound Harbor Marine Institute evolved to provide marine studies field experiences for schools and other organized groups, teaching snorkeling skills to study Florida Keys ecosystems. Programs are offered from September through May, and Lionfish Central is taking advantage of their great location and resources to offer lodging, meals, program spaces and field experiences for the Level One Submarine Operations course/workshop.
Day One
Thursday March 16th, 2023
Includes Lodging
Check-in at Seacamp anytime after 4pm (earlier check-in available if needed). Meet and greet the instructors, Seacamp staff and other participants in this course. Go over the rules and expectations for this course and settle into your lodging.
Day Two
Friday March 17th, 2023
Includes Lodging, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Full day of learning about all the components needed for a successful dive operarion. This will consist of both classroom presentations, as well as hands-on submarine work. Comes with use of our equipment, materials & booklets. This will give you a new perspective when it comes to sub operations.
Day Three
Saturday March 18th, 2023
Includes Lodging, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
We continue the learning as we spend more time around the sub than in the classroom. This day is more hands-on while getting inside the sub. You’ll learn why certain techniques and walk throughs are so important for a successful operation. Bring your camera because there are a lot of great photo opportunities that few people in life get the chance to see.
Day Four
Sunday March 19th, 2023
Includes Lodging, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Sunday Fun Day! Not that the other days weren’t fun but this day is where you get to experience the sub in the water! Work your communications with the sub, snorkel around it, hop up on it and maybe even go inside of it! This day is where you put your knowledge to the test and see just how easy it is to work with an ocean-going submersible/submarine. This is the day that you worked for! This is the day where you decide if you want to join us on future missions as one of our volunteers. If you do – make sure you speak up! We are always looking for qualified volunteers to join our adventures.
Day Five
Monday March 20th, 2023
Access any outstanding questions and answers and say goodbye to your new sub friends!
Morning Check-out
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