An Incredible Maritime Invention From the 17th Century
In the early 1620s, a Dutch inventor stunned the world by creating the first working submarine — a wooden, leather-sealed rowboat capable of staying submerged for almost three hours on the River Thames.
The Inventor Behind the World’s First Submarine
Cornelis Drebbel, a Dutch engineer and master inventor, designed the underwater vessel. His creativity helped lay the foundation for modern submarine technology.
Why the Submarine Was Built in the First Place
England sought new military tools. Drebbel’s design was intended to show King James I a stealthy way to approach enemy ships.
A Wooden Rowboat Transformed Into an Underwater Craft
Instead of a metal hull, Drebbel used a sturdy wooden frame. The boat was then sealed tightly with waterproof leather to prevent water leakage.
How the Submarine Stayed Underwater for Hours
The airtight leather membrane kept the vessel dry while a mechanical rowing system allowed the crew to move silently beneath the surface.
Sixteen People Fit Inside the Experimental Submarine
Historical records reveal that up to 16 passengers were inside during the longest test. This made the vessel incredibly crowded but still operational.
Testing the Submarine in the Thames River
Drebbel carried out the demonstration on London’s River Thames. The submarine submerged, traveled underwater, and resurfaced safely to public amazement.
An Early Example of Controlled Underwater Navigation
The vessel moved using human-powered oars that extended through special watertight leather sleeves, allowing rowers to operate underwater.
How Fresh Air Was Supplied Inside the Submarine
Drebbel used chemicals to refresh the air — likely potassium nitrate — making it one of the earliest experiments in artificial air supply.
A Revolutionary Step for Naval Warfare
Although never used in battle, the submarine hinted at a future where ships could travel unseen below the surface.
The Design That Inspired Future Maritime Technology
Drebbel’s invention proved it was possible to travel underwater for long periods, influencing future engineers who pursued advanced submarine concepts.
Understanding the Engineering Challenges of the 1620s
Creating an underwater craft without modern materials was incredibly difficult. Leather sealing, wooden joints, and pressure-resistant designs required meticulous craftsmanship.
The Submarine Demonstration Impressed England’s Royal Court
Eyewitness accounts say King James I was astonished, watching the vessel disappear beneath the Thames for hours and resurface with everyone unharmed.
The Oar-Based Propulsion System Was Ingenious
The craft moved silently. Oars fitted through flexible leather cuffs allowed rowing motion without compromising the seal.
Why This Invention Was Centuries Ahead of Its Time
While submarines became practical only in the 19th and 20th centuries, Drebbel achieved basic underwater navigation 300 years earlier.
The Submarine’s Leather-Sealed Hull Was Remarkably Effective
The thick greased leather prevented leaks even when the boat was fully submerged — a remarkable solution in an era without industrial waterproofing.
Drebbel’s Scientific Knowledge Helped the Submarine Succeed
He was also an expert in optics, chemistry, and mechanical engineering. His diverse skills contributed to the vessel’s successful operation.
The Legacy of the Submarine in Naval History
Though not adopted militarily, the invention proved underwater travel possible, influencing inventors from France, Russia, Germany, and beyond.
Why Drebbel’s Submarine Remains a Symbol of Human Ingenuity
The achievement shows how creativity and scientific curiosity can push boundaries even without modern tools.
Conclusion: A 400-Year-Old Invention That Changed Maritime History
The world’s first working submarine — a wooden, leather-sealed rowboat from the 1620s — marked the beginning of underwater exploration and inspired centuries of naval innovation.