Submarines & Lookout Platforms

Navigate mini-dungeons and find rewards in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. Master Submarines and Lookout Platforms for Rupees and Heart Pieces.

As you bravely navigate the vast expanse of the Great Sea, you'll frequently encounter two distinct types of mini-dungeons that offer valuable rewards and a chance to hone your combat skills: Submarines and Lookout Platforms. These structures are essential for accumulating Rupees, collecting Heart Pieces, and sometimes even discovering crucial Treasure Charts or other unique items. Mastering their challenges is key to Link's journey.

Submarines: Naval Encounters & Hidden Treasures

Submarines are submerged vessels that periodically surface as you approach their location. They are typically guarded by a cannon on deck, which you can disable with a well-aimed shot from your Bow or Bombs. Once the cannon is neutralized, you can board the submarine by sailing close enough to trigger the "Board" prompt.

Inside a Submarine: Combat & Rewards

Upon boarding, you'll find yourself in a confined space, usually a single room, populated by various enemies. The goal is simple: defeat all adversaries to unlock the treasure chest. Common enemies include:

• Bokoblins: Standard sword-wielding foes. Easy to dispatch.
• Moblins: Larger, spear-wielding enemies. Block their attacks and counter.
• Darknuts: Heavily armored knights. Use the Grappling Hook to remove their armor or parry their attacks to expose their weak point.
• Wizzrobes: Magic-users that teleport and cast spells. Use the Bow or Hookshot to stun them.

Strategy Tip: Due to the enclosed nature of submarines, enemies can quickly surround you. Prioritize ranged threats like Wizzrobes first, then focus on melee combatants. The Boomerang can be excellent for stunning multiple enemies simultaneously.

Common Submarine Rewards:

The treasure chests found within submarines are a reliable source of valuable items. While the exact contents can vary, you can expect to find:

• Rupees: Often large quantities (e.g., 50, 100, or even 200 Rupees).
• Heart Pieces: Some submarines contain a Heart Piece, contributing to your maximum health. These are highly sought after.
• Treasure Charts: A few specific submarines house Treasure Charts, which mark the location of sunken treasure chests on your Sea Chart.
• Small Keys: Occasionally, a small key might be found, though this is rarer and usually tied to specific story-related submarines.

Notable Submarine Locations:

• Pawprint Isle (A2): Located just south of Pawprint Isle. This submarine often contains a significant Rupee haul and is a good early-game target.
• Northern Triangle Isle (A3): East of Northern Triangle Isle. This submarine is known to contain a Heart Piece. Be prepared for a tougher fight here.
• Isle of Steel (D2): Found near the Isle of Steel. This submarine often has a Treasure Chart, leading to a valuable sunken chest.
• Needle Rock Isle (G5): South of Needle Rock Isle. This submarine is a good source of Rupees and can sometimes yield a Heart Piece.

Lookout Platforms: Aerial Challenges & Hidden Perches

Lookout Platforms are tall, wooden structures that dot the Great Sea. They typically feature a small platform at the top, often inaccessible by simply sailing up to them. These platforms almost always house a treasure chest, making them worthwhile diversions.

Accessing Lookout Platforms:

There are generally two primary methods for reaching the top of a lookout platform:

1. Grappling Hook: Many platforms have a wooden beam or a specific target point that can be latched onto with the Grappling Hook. Sail close, aim, and swing across.
2. Deku Leaf: For platforms that are slightly further from the water or have no obvious Grappling Hook target, you can often use the Deku Leaf. Find a nearby elevated position (like a small island or another platform), catch the wind, and glide over.

Strategy Tip: Before attempting to board, observe the platform. Some may have enemies like Kargarocs or Peahats circling them, which can be annoying while trying to grapple or glide. Clear them out with your Bow first.

Common Lookout Platform Rewards:

The treasure chests on lookout platforms are another excellent source of Rupees and other collectibles:

• Rupees: Similar to submarines, these chests frequently contain significant Rupee amounts (e.g., 50, 100, 200 Rupees).
• Heart Pieces: A good number of lookout platforms conceal a Heart Piece, making them essential stops for increasing Link's health.
• Treasure Charts: Certain platforms, particularly those in more remote or challenging locations, will reward you with a Treasure Chart.
• Magic Jars: Occasionally, you might find a Magic Jar, replenishing your magic meter.

Notable Lookout Platform Locations:

• Dragon Roost Island (A6) Vicinity: Several platforms around Dragon Roost Island offer early opportunities to practice using the Grappling Hook and collect Rupees.
• Bomb Island (F5): The lookout platform near Bomb Island often contains a Heart Piece. You'll likely need the Deku Leaf to reach it from a nearby elevated spot.
• Horseshoe Island (F6): This platform is a good source of Rupees and is easily accessible with the Grappling Hook.
• Boating Course (G3): The platform here is part of the Boating Course challenge, but can be accessed independently for its reward, which often includes a Treasure Chart.
• Cliff Watch Island (C2): Located near Cliff Watch Island, this platform often has a Heart Piece. Be mindful of any enemies guarding it.

General Tips for Clearing Submarines & Lookout Platforms:

• Keep an Eye on the Sea Chart: As you explore, any submarine or lookout platform you've discovered will be marked on your Sea Chart. A cleared platform or submarine will often have a small checkmark or a change in icon to indicate you've collected its treasure.
• Always Be Prepared: Ensure you have a good supply of Arrows for your Bow and Bombs before engaging, especially with submarines.
• Prioritize Heart Pieces & Treasure Charts: While Rupees are always useful, make a mental note of locations that yield Heart Pieces or Treasure Charts, as these are often more impactful for your progression.
• Use the Wind Waker: If you're struggling to reach a lookout platform with the Deku Leaf, remember to use the Wind Waker to direct the wind in your favor.

By diligently clearing these mini-dungeons, you'll significantly bolster Link's resources and health, making the more challenging aspects of your quest across the Great Sea much more manageable.