In order to capture video of the storied but elusive giant squid, Triton Submarines (Triton) is diving deep in Japan for a project funded by NHK, JAMSTEC (Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology) as well as the Discovery Channel. The Triton 3300/3 and two other submersibles are being utilised. The main aim is to capture never before seen video footage of the mystical creature at depths varying from 1500 to 3000 feet.

Triton Submarines and expedition yacht Alucia Photo Courtesy of Ian Kellett Productions, LLC

The expedition will film in several locations near Japan’s coast in an effort to film a variety of deep-water predators. The filmmakers hope to film the giant squid at the expeditions final location in Ogasawara about 550 miles south of Sagami Bay where diving is currently taking place.

Triton Submarines diving deep in the water Photo Courtesy of Ian Kellett Productions, LLC

The submersibles have been fitted with special infrared and low light cameras developed by NHK to allow filming in near pitch-black conditions. The giant squid is extremely light sensitive so traditional underwater filming equipment that relies on powerful lighting cannot be used. A variety of scientific instruments including CTD’s and suction sampling equipment have also been added to each submersible. The integration was greatly simplified and enhanced because of the built-in versatility and expandability of the electrical and PLC based control and monitoring systems in the Triton 3300/3.

56m motor yacht Alucia Photo Courtesy of Ian Kellett Productions, LLC

The base of operations for this expedition is the 56-meter Motor Yacht Alucia. A purpose built expedition and research vessel, the Alucia is unique in the world. She carries three deep-diving submersibles and a host of scientific monitoring, sampling and testing equipment. Operational support of the Alucia superyacht is being provided by the renowned Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, a leader in deep-sea research and submersible operations for decades.

Alucia superyacht – front view Photo Courtesy of Ian Kellett Productions, LLC

Triton’s CEO Bruce Jones is proud to see his company’s submersibles being utilized for research and filmmaking. “Triton is very happy to be part of this groundbreaking project. The opportunity to capture images of giant squid and other rare marine species is incredibly exciting. It is also a great opportunity to dive the Triton 3300/3 with a mission profile that makes use of its full depth capability. When you dive beyond 1000 feet, you can be sure that each dive will take you to places where no man has ever been before and that you will see things that no man has ever seen. This type of diving is what Triton is all about.”