Since I started scuba diving, I have wanted to try a DPV (Diver Propulsion Vehicle). More is commonly known as an underwater scooter. However, as far back as I can remember, these contraptions have been prohibitively expensive. Only to be purchased by divers with deep pockets or rented from your local dive shop. The good news is that this no longer holds. Underwater scooters are getting more and more affordable with each passing day. To prove it, I have listed three from Sea-Doo available at Scuba.com: excellent value for money.
Sea-Doo Dolphin Sea Scooter
This absurdly low-priced scooter is a compact, lightweight sea scooter that is more popular with kids and works equally as well with adults. It is capable of speeds up to 2 mph (3.2 Kmph). Weighing just 12 lbs (5.4kg), the Seadoo Dolphin is tons of fun for the entire family. Whether in a swimming pool, a lake, or the sea. The depth rating for the sea-doo is only 15ft and gives a battery run-time of approximately 1.5 hours with regular use. The safety features include protective grilles, an auto shut-off mechanism, dual trigger control, and positive buoyancy.
The only negative with the Sea-Doo Dolphin is that it quickly wears down the battery. So, I recommend anyone going for one to purchase a spare battery. Also, Sea-Doo positions the product as a swimming pool scooter for kids, which is not meant for more serious scuba usage (owing to the depth rating). Overall, though, the dolphin is just tons of fun, and at its price, you could get a couple of them for the cost of a single sea scooter elsewhere.
Sea-Doo Sea Scooter VS Supercharged Water Scooter
The Sea-Doo VS Supercharged water scooter is genuinely a looker. Did I mention that it is relatively affordable as well? This scooter was rated no.1 overall by Diving Science and Technology (DSAT). Combining maneuverability and power, the VS offers two thrust levels, providing speeds of up to 3mph (4.8 kph) with a depth rating of up to 100ft/30m. The weight of the VS is just 18 lbs/8.4kg, and it is pretty compact. Once again, the battery life is approximately 1.5 hours under regular use, but unlike the Dolphin, it offers adjustable buoyancy. Excellent for shore diving, getting to and from your dive spot, or going through a current.
The only drawbacks of this otherwise perfect sea scooter are the lower battery life of 1.5 hours and the above-average noise that the VS creates, living up to its supercharged tag. Otherwise, brilliant scooters from Sea-Doo are a must-have for any diver looking for a fast, highly maneuverable.
Sea-Doo Explorer Sea Scooter
The Sea-Doo Seascooter Explorer features variable tri-stage speed control with 3-speed selection and packs thrust for a speed of up to 3.3mph and a battery life under normal usage of up to 2 hours. It is rated to a depth of 160ft, which means you can take it on deep dives. It weighs just 32lbs/ 14.5kg, including the battery, and with new, improved safety features such as water leakage protection, low battery voltage protection, over current protection, high-temperature protection, safety lock, auto shut-off function, low battery LED light, and battery voltage indicator.
The biggest drawback of the Explorer is its weight, which makes it difficult to lug around outside the water and haul it back into the dive boat. But it’s the price you have to pay for better battery life.
