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.

2024 2023 2021 2018 2017 2016

eISR 2024 – Beagle

Tied 9th Place

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.

2023 pool test 2023 competition photo
2023 team photo

16th vISR ( Virtual ) – 2021

  • 1st Place – Drivetrain Design Challenge
  • 2nd Place – Human Factors Engineering Process
  • 2nd Place – Future Submarine Design Challenge
  • Message from Astronaut Megan McArthur on the vISR

    • 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.

    2018 team photo
    2018 pool dive

    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.

    2017 blueprint 1 2017 blueprint 2
    2017 competition photo

    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.

    2016 competition group photo