and exploration possibilities exist with its ability to probe depths the average scuba diver cannot.

Since operating in local waters, the submarine, owned by former MP Mr. Harry Soares, has never before reached depths of 200 feet, operations manager Mr.

Ralph Richardson said.

But this week it took the plunge because its re-certification requirements call for operators to take it deeper than the usual 40 to 60 feet and develop "new techniques''.

Though it was certified to go deeper, it had not done so before because of concerns there would not be enough light for passengers, he said.

And most known wrecks in Bermuda could be seen from its usual depth.

However, after reaching 200 feet seven miles northwest of Dockyard, they discovered there was indeed enough light.

"There was sufficient light that we could have taken photographs,'' he said.

Mr. Richardson said he had discussed the voyage with Maritime Museum director Dr. Edward Harris, who was enthusiastic about exploration possibilities for the submarine.

He said there could be several undiscovered shipwrecks around Bermuda that were not previously found because of the difficulty average divers have in reaching 200-foot depths.