Pisces-class submersibles are three-person research deep-submergence vehicles designed and built by Hyco International Hydrodynamics of North Vancouver in British Columbia with a maximum operating depth of 2,000 m (6,560 ft).

The vehicles have multiple view ports and sample collecting, environmental sensing, and instrument placement capabilities.

Through an international effort of the United States, Canada, and Great Britain, the U.S. Navy Cable-controlled Undersea Recovery Vehicle (CURV-III) was deployed within 24 hours 6,000 miles from its home base.

Rapid repairs were made when CURV-III’s gyroscope failed and electronics shorted-out after sea water came aboard the Cabot.

The vessel underwent a complete refit in Salina, Kansas, and Vancouver, Canada, and then was moved to Tenerife, Canary Islands, where it got certified and insured.