Whether you’re hoping to play with dolphins in the Bahamas or if you wish you had an easier way to make your way around huge shipwrecks, the right Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) can be a huge help. Banned in some places and virtually a requirement in others, these devices help to prevent fatigue and can be useful in all kinds of situations. The number of models is rapidly increasing; making choosing the one that is best for your needs something of a challenge. Here are some helpful tips for selecting the right Diver Propulsion Vehicle.
First, Consider Your Needs
Sometimes called underwater scooters, DPV’s come with all kinds of different bells and whistles. If you are a professional or technical diver, you probably have a good idea about what you want already; if you’re a recreational diver, then you might be wondering how much propulsion you actually need.
For shorter fun dives, a tow-behind unit, which you hang onto with your hands while scooting merrily along can be a good choice, but if you hope to get great underwater photos, you might find that the DVP interferes somewhat with your ability to manage camera gear, even if you do get a unit with a bridle that allows you to connect it to your BCD.
Dedicated underwater photographers who need a bit of extra horsepower will probably find that a hands free DPV unit works best. Cave divers and wreck divers will also appreciate these small, streamlined models; they are unobtrusive and provide just enough extra thrust to make diving in challenging conditions less strenuous and aiding with air conservation. Finally, these little units are excellent for people who plan to travel with them, as they take up very little luggage space.
Divers who live with physical limitations and those who want to relax will enjoy sit astride DPV’s; while these underwater “motorcycles” offer a very easy experience, they are much more costly than the simplest devices. Some models have self-contained SCUBA so you don’t have to wear tanks, others even have full face helmets attached.
Be sure to consider how and where you will be using the DPV; different models are constructed with a variety of uses in mind. For example, if you do a lot of shore diving, look into a model that can help make surface swims easier in addition to giving you some extra underwater horsepower.
Second, Consider Your Budget
When choosing a Diver Propulsion Vehicle, don’t forget to take your budget into consideration. While choosing the cheapest model on the market might be your aim, remember that cheaply designed models will probably need to be replaced much sooner than a high quality model will. A good money-saving option is to look for a used DPV that has been well-maintained. Like a used luxury car, it will present a great value for the price and will probably provide you with several seasons of fun.
Third, Remember to Compare Models
As with manufacturers of every other conceivable product on the market, companies that produce Diver Propulsion Vehicles put on slick marketing campaigns and of course, want divers to believe that their product is the best. Depending on your needs and budget, they might just be right! Before you buy though, be sure to do your homework. Talk to people who use DPV’s on a regular basis, or talk with a dive shop employee about what various models have to offer. Get up on chat boards and forums and talk to your virtual dive buddies about their experiences; this is a great way to measure the pros and cons of different models. If possible, take a few different types out for a spin so you can get a feel for different styles before making a final choice.
Last but not least, remember to get accessories. Extra battery packs, hard sided carrying cases, and spare parts are essentials for different models. Take a PADI DPV course or equivalent before heading out with your new toy, and have fun!