Past Competitions
Explore SUBC’s history of innovation, design, and competition — from early prototypes to modern carbon-fiber submarines. Below is a chronological overview of our entries, major design milestones, and competition highlights.
eISR 2024 – Beagle
Tied 9th Place
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17th ISR – 2023 ( Beagle )
The Beagle introduced a recumbent pedaling position — inspired by our Icarus design — to improve pilot ergonomics and power output despite a larger hull volume.
To simplify the drivetrain in this configuration, the pilot faces the stern, positioning the pedals near the propeller shaft, assisted by an electronic vision system for navigation.
All systems were housed in a CFRP hull with an adjustable aluminum frame to accommodate different pilots and pedaling setups.
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16th vISR ( Virtual ) – 2021
- 1st Place – Drivetrain Design Challenge
- 2nd Place – Human Factors Engineering Process
- 2nd Place – Future Submarine Design Challenge
eISR 2018
Gosport, England
3rd Overall Design (2018 & 2020)
10th Overall Performance
Perseverance Award
SUBC took on the challenge of a full redesign — the first in over a decade — aiming for our fastest submarine yet.
Focused on propulsion optimization, pilot ergonomics, and full control-system redevelopment.
Converted from linear → rotary drive input.
Designed new propeller blades optimized for the carbon-fiber hull.
Automated buoyancy control for improved pilot focus.
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14th ISR – 2017
Bethesda, Maryland, USA
1st at International Conference on Engineering Design
Honorary Mention for Best Design Outline
Rigorously tested propeller blades to determine the optimum angle of attack.
Resized control surfaces to provide finer steering.
Developed a robust, pilot-friendly buoy system to expedite safety inspection.
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eISR 8 – 2016
Gosport, England
1st in Presentation
5th in Design
7th Overall
2015–2016 was a defining year, laying the foundation for future success.
After relocating twice, the team focused on growth and expansion, achieving an 800% membership increase.
Despite major logistical and managerial challenges, the team completed and tested Skookumchuck Mk II, UBC’s first submarine in the water in four years.
This project marked the culmination of years of effort to build a world-class human-powered submarine, offering students a unique and lasting engineering experience.
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