THESE are the incredible plans for a 1,000-ton floating skyscraper that is half superyacht and half submarine.
Dubbed the "Sea Orbiter", the 167ft-tall international oceanic station is just one of many concept designs aiming to revolutionise the luxury boat industry.
The remarkable plans for the 167ft-tall 'Sea Orbiter'This innovative vessel would be a semi-submersible craft weighing 1,000 tonnesCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk11 levels will enable up to 22 researchers to live and work underwater around the clockCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskManufacturers are constantly innovating to ensure their designs stand out, whether through eco-friendly technology or avant-garde aesthetics, and this one could very well top the lot.
The brainchild of French architect Jacques Rougerie, the SeaOrbiter combines elements of a skyscraper and a boat.
Oceanographer Jacques Piccard and astronaut Jean-Loup Chrétien are also behind the extraordinary plans, which were estimated to cost an eye-watering £41.2million back in 2012.
I starred at the World Cup and almost beat France - now I'm homeless in LondonThis innovative vessel would be a semi-submersible craft weighing 1,000 tonnes, whereby 102ft of its total 167ft height would be below sea level.
An alloy of aluminium and magnesium would make up the Sea Orbiter's hull, while the vessel's design would allow it to float vertically and drift with the ocean currents.
Two small propellers would also enable it to modify its trajectory and maneuver in confined waters.
The oceangoing research vessel would be designed for marine exploration, allowing up to 22 researchers to live and work underwater around the clock.
As part of research, underwater robots would be sent from the laboratory to explore the seabed.
A pressurised deck would also support divers and submarines.
Initial construction began in 2014, with the Eye of SeaOrbiter completed in May 2015.
Standing at 60ft above the waterline, it is designed to host the lookout post as well as radio and communication systems.
The extraordinary design represents the pinnacle of luxury and innovation, offering unique features that challenge conventional boating norms and cater to the desires of the world’s wealthiest individuals.
The Sea Orbiter is just one of many groundbreaking luxury vessel concepts to emerge in recent times.
Tech giants have failed to stop harmful content because they put profits firstLast month, incredible designs for a new 500ft superyacht shows the beauty has an elevated viewing platform sat 125ft above the water complete with a bar and infinity pool.
The vision of Italian designer Gabriel Teruzzi would take guests from the sea to the sky if the ambitious $500million project is ever bought into reality.
And these are the plans for the world's most luxurious submarine that is shaped like a fish and can dive as deep as 328 feet underwater for up to seven days at a time.
Dubbed the Deep Sea Dreamer, it is equipped with a viewing orb to explore the breathtaking ocean views.
A full breakdown of the futuristic vessel's layoutResearchers would be able to live in and amongst marine lifeCredit: dezeen.comThe Sea Orbiter is the brainchild of French architect Jacques RougerieCredit: AFP