Experience Weightless Underwater Flight with the $30,000 CudaJet – The Innovative Extreme Sports Toy for Superyacht Owners
Introducing the CudaJet, a groundbreaking underwater jetpack that offers an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers willing to invest in the extraordinary.
Positioned as a luxury item for those who crave adrenaline and have substantial resources, this innovative device enables users to explore the depths of the ocean with remarkable speed and agility.
Retailing at approximately $29,000, the CudaJet allows adventurers to experience “weightless flight” at speeds up to 3 meters/9.8 feet per second, according to its manufacturers. The compact jetpack is worn on a harness, with a hand-held controller providing precise maneuverability.
Orders for these high-performance devices are custom-made and typically delivered within a three-month timeframe. Each unit boasts a 90-minute battery life, though it should be noted that the jetpack is not tethered to an oxygen tank or vessel, allowing users unlimited time in the water but restricting dives below the surface to single breath intervals.
Since its launch in early 2023, over 100 CudaJet units have been sold to an impressive clientele that includes owners of some of the world’s largest superyachts. The response from customers has reportedly been overwhelmingly positive.
Archie O’Brien, the 28-year-old British entrepreneur behind the design, shared his enthusiasm for the device with CNN:
“The underwater jetpack offers a sensation that is incredibly close to human flight,” he said. “The weightless experience feels superhuman as you glide through a three-dimensional aquatic world!”
Inspired by a dive vacation in Thailand during his studies at Loughborough University, O’Brien recognized an opportunity to revolutionize underwater exploration. He began researching propulsion systems and developed an early prototype affixed with duct tape to his back. Encouraged by the initial results, he refined the product over thousands of hours, eventually creating the CudaJet as we know it today.
As with any extreme sport, there are inherent risks associated with using the CudaJet. Users must possess a thorough understanding of ear equalization and breath-hold diving techniques, along with awareness of battery life and appropriate storage conditions for the device when not in use.
Compared to other underwater propulsion technologies, O’Brien believes his invention offers an unparalleled experience. He acknowledges alternative solutions that enable swift movement through water but emphasizes the unique advantages of the CudaJet:
“For example, a jet ski engine would generate substantial thrust, but its size and weight make it impractical for personal use underwater,” he explained. “On the other hand, smaller hand-held devices exist, but they are far too slow to provide any real advantage.”
Recently, diver Dom Robinson reviewed a similar product on his YouTube channel, Deep Wreck Diver, with over 13,000 subscribers. The Hong Kong-based developers of the XiaoTun underwater jetpack are currently seeking investment on Kickstarter to bring their product to market.
Robinson captured footage of a friend using the device, offering his thoughts on its functionality:
“While the CudaJet is undoubtedly fun, I question its practical applications beyond recreational use,” he said. “The jetpack includes a buoyancy aid, which seems sensible, though it does present challenges due to the jets only functioning submerged.”
He added: “Most individuals are not particularly skilled at breath-hold diving, so achieving the performance demonstrated in promotional materials may prove challenging for many users!”