Larry Connor, a billionaire adventurer with a penchant for extreme pursuits, has set his sights on exploring the wreck of the Titanic, which sank in 1912 and now lies at a depth of 12,500 feet below sea level. This latest mission follows a series of daring adventures that have seen Connor travel to space, descend to the deepest point in the Earth’s oceans, and break the world record for the highest skydive. Connor’s expedition to the Titanic is expected to cost between $13 million and $15 million, with most of the funds going towards developing a new submersible in partnership with Triton Submarines.
The joint venture with Triton Submarines, a company backed by billionaires Ray Dalio and James Cameron, will involve two and a half years of research and development to create a one-of-a-kind submersible for the expedition. Connor, who is worth an estimated $2 billion, is adamant that this mission is not just a luxury cruise for wealthy tourists, but rather an opportunity to demonstrate the power of approaching ocean exploration with the right research and technology. The expedition will involve multiple research dives in the North Atlantic area, exploring hydrothermal vents and seamounts which have seen limited scientific research in the past.
The submersible, named the Explorer, will have an 18-inch-thick acrylic hull offering a 320-degree view of the ocean floor and will be powered by a battery similar to those used in electric cars. The vessel will be capable of reaching depths of up to 13,100 feet, a feat that has never been accomplished before. The impetus for the expedition came after Connor reached out to Triton Submarines following the deadly OceanGate disaster in June 2023, where a submersible imploded on its way to the Titanic wreck, resulting in the deaths of five passengers.
Connor, who made his fortune through his real estate investment firm the Connor Group, has always been drawn to extreme challenges that combine a sense of purpose with practical research. From flying an F-5 fighter jet to summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro, Connor’s adventures have always been centered around pushing the boundaries of what is possible while prioritizing safety and success. Before embarking on the Titanic expedition, Connor will undergo training to become a certified submersible pilot, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and a commitment to safety in all of his endeavors.
Looking ahead, Connor has expressed interest in potentially returning to the International Space Station for further research missions if the opportunity arises. While there are currently no formalized plans for future adventures, Connor remains hopeful for what lies ahead beyond the Titanic expedition. With a proven track record of safety and a deep commitment to exploration and discovery, it is clear that Larry Connor’s thirst for adventure and knowledge shows no signs of slowing down.
