The Best Passenger Submarine: A Personal Journey and Analysis

Over the years, there have been numerous passenger submarines that have captivated the imagination and provided unique underwater experiences. While my firsthand experience of a passenger submarine was limited to a simple 'glass-bottom' boat in Bermuda back in the mid-1990s, I would confidently affirm that the submarine in Disneyland, specifically the one I experienced in 1973, stands out as the best.

My Early Experience with Submarine Travel

My earliest and only in-person encounter with a passenger submarine was during a trip to Bermuda around 20 years ago. This particular submarine, I believe, was of French origin. It remained stationed in shallow reef areas and featured a row of viewing windows on the lower quarter of its side, providing passengers a clear view of the aquatic life below. The submarine offered bench seating for the passengers, who could sit and enjoy the underwater scenery.

Reflecting on this experience, while it was unique, I must confess that snorkeling is a much more accessible and thrilling way to explore the ocean's beauty. However, the convenience and accessibility of a submarine cannot be overlooked, especially for those who are not seasoned divers or snorkelers.

The Golden Years of Disneyland's Submarine

My family and I embarked on a memorable journey to Disneyland in 1973. Living in San Francisco, we faced an early morning drive down Interstate 5, a stunning stretch of highway that remains one of the most scenic routes in the United States. Along the way, the agricultural scents permeated through the windows of my father’s Olds Delta 88, providing a delightful contrast to the refurbished scents of our destination.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, the environment shifted dramatically. The increasing temperature and the hazy, 'dirty' sky were stark reminders of the urbanization we were about to immerse ourselves in. Disneyland, as I recall, was a large and sprawling theme park, seemingly so vast that we had to park quite a distance from the entrance. However, the moment we stepped through the gates, the world of Mickey, his friends, and themed attractions came to life.

The highlight of our visit to Disneyland, however, was undoubtedly the submarine ride. This submarine, with particular attention to design, featured windows for the passengers and provided a unique experience of the varied marine flora and fauna. Additionally, the ride included a platform along the underside of the submarine, allowing guests to have an even closer look at the underwater world. The educational and interactive nature of this submarine ride made it stand out as the best experience for both my family and myself in those early 1970s.

Reflections and Beyond

As technology and design have advanced, it's reasonable to assume that modern passenger submarines have surpassed the one in Disneyland. Today, advanced submarines like the Larson and Scientific Research Submersibles offer more luxurious and comprehensive underwater experiences. However, for those who wished to relive the magic of Disneyland's past, or for those just seeking an engaging and educational activity, the experience of the Disneyland submarine remains unmatched.

The intersection of technology and hospitality in the 1970s demonstrated in the Disneyland submarine ride exemplifies the early integration of themed experiences into a broader travel and tourism context. Regardless of how times have changed, the allure and wonder of the underwater world persist, inspiring scientists, explorers, and travelers alike.