OceanGate Expeditions, the company responsible for the ill-fated journey of the Titan submersible to the Titanic wreckage, has made a shocking announcement. They have decided to suspend all operations, both commercial and exploratory. This decision comes just two weeks after the tragic implosion of their diving vessel, which claimed the lives of all five individuals on board.
Interestingly, if you visit OceanGate’s website, you won’t find any mention of this devastating submersible disaster. Instead, you’ll discover that the company, founded in 2009 and based in Washington state, offered extraordinary tours of the Titanic wreckage for a hefty price of $250,000 per seat. They also provided other exciting expeditions to the Azores and the Bahamas, along with the option for customized tours.
But let’s delve deeper into the events surrounding the Titan’s demise. On June 18, the Titan mysteriously vanished, triggering an extensive search effort led by the United States and Canada. Among the passengers on board was OceanGate’s CEO, Stockton Rush. Eventually, on June 22, wreckage from the Titan was discovered near the Titanic.
Since this tragic incident, serious concerns have been raised regarding the safety of the submersible and the potential negligence in following proper protocols. It’s worth noting that OceanGate had conducted an impressive 141 expeditions prior to this disaster, as stated on their website.
It’s a somber reminder of the risks involved in exploring the depths of the ocean. OceanGate’s decision to suspend all operations serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise in such ventures.