Forget supersonic jets – lightning-fast travel is heading below the surface, with news that Chinese scientists are developing a submarine capable of making transpacific journeys in a matter of hours.

Researchers at the Harbin Institute of Technology have harnessed a technology called ‘supercavitation’, in which the vessel regularly ‘showers’ itself with a liquid membrane to create an air bubble of sorts that ensures the vessel is not slowed down by water drag.

Li Fengchen, professor of fluid machinery and engineering at the institute, told the South China Morning Post that supercavitation could soon make civilian submarine travel a reality. According to a 2001 report by the California Institute of Technology, supercavitation means a vessel could reach the speed of sound – or 5,800kph – underwater.

In other words, this could see potential aquatic adventurers depart Shanghai in the morning and make it to San Francisco in time for brunch. While no date has been specified as to when supersonic underwater travel will be realised, it is certainly sure to make waves in the industry.