Diver Propulsion Vehicle or How to Move Faster While Diving

Diver Propulsion Vehicles (DPVs) offers unparalleled speed and efficiency in diving. This guide covers their benefits, drawbacks, types, how to choose yours, courses, expert tips, and more.

Want to Glide Underwater? With a Diver Propulsion Vehicle, You Can!

Imagine effortlessly gliding across the seafloor, covering more ground without getting tired. That’s exactly what an underwater motor thruster, or DPV, can do!

I know because I’ve used several. I had to upgrade as I improved as a diver.

When I bought my first underwater electric motor, I was thrilled.

The promise? Covering vast distances and exploring those previously unreachable spots.

With an underwater propulsion device, long dives become a breeze, and the air consumption? It’s practically infinite since you’re not kicking.

Of course, it’s not all perfect. Underwater motors have their quirks. They need maintenance, cost a pretty penny, and most importantly, you need to know how to use them.

So, if you want to hear everything I’ve learned about underwater thrusters and scooters, keep reading.

1. What is a Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV)?

A DPV, or Diver Propulsion Vehicle, is an underwater propulsion motor that allows divers to move more efficiently and quickly underwater. This device, also known as an underwater thruster motor, helps divers cover more distance with less effort, enhancing the diving experience.

2. History of Underwater Thrusters for Diving

The history of underwater propulsion motors is fascinating. They were first used during World War II! Yes, you read that right—they were adapted from torpedoes for secret missions. Later, technical divers adopted them for exploring deeper and more complex places. Thanks to technological advancements, electric underwater thrusters are now more accessible, and any diver can enjoy them!

No wonder these underwater motors provide faster and more efficient movement, which is useful for long dives and helps conserve air, extending your time underwater. They also add excitement to the experience and make it easier to explore hard-to-reach areas.

3. Uses and Benefits of Diver Propulsion Vehicles in Diving

Today, Diver Propulsion Vehicles (DPVs) are widely used in recreational diving. Primarily, they enhance immersion time by either extending the dive’s range or increasing descent speed.

For divers with disabilities, these underwater thruster motors provide propulsion that their legs cannot. Technical divers also find underwater electric motors indispensable for managing heavy gear or large equipment. The underwater thruster motor effortlessly drags all that weight, making it ideal for strong currents, extending distances in confined environments (no cave is off-limits), and reducing dive times and decompression.

In scientific diving, explorers leverage the towing capability of this technology to gather data, create maps, and produce educational materials.

Using a Diver Propulsion Vehicle can significantly enhance your diving experience. Here’s why:

• Increased Mobility and Range: With an underwater motor thruster, you’ll glide through the water like lightning, reaching previously inaccessible places. Perfect for exploring large areas quickly and for scientific research!
• Reduced Physical Effort: An electric underwater thruster minimizes the effort of swimming, helping you stay focused and alert, especially in strong currents or long dives.
• Air Conservation: By moving more efficiently, you’ll use less air. Yes, using an underwater electric motor helps you save air—more time underwater means more adventures!
• Ideal for Underwater Photography and Videography: Diver Propulsion Vehicles are perfect for underwater photographers and videographers. With an underwater motor thruster, you can approach marine life without startling it and capture stunning images from various angles.

4. Diver Propulsion Vehicle Disadvantages and Considerations

No, we don’t sell Diver Propulsion Vehicles, so we might be the only ones talking about the downsides of these gadgets.

Battery Dependence and Mechanical Failures: These underwater motors run on batteries, so battery life is crucial. You could run out of power mid-dive, and considering they are mechanical devices, they can fail—especially problematic during deep dives or cave explorations.

Risk of Collisions and Entanglements: DPVs, or high-speed underwater scooters, are fantastic for moving quickly underwater. However, that extra speed can turn you into a human torpedo. It’s easy to collide with rocks, coral, or even get tangled in marine life or lines. Imagine having to disentangle yourself from seaweed or, worse, a jellyfish—definitely not fun!

Rapid Ascents and Descents: Another thing to watch with these underwater thrusters is their tendency to shoot you up or down at high speeds. Experienced divers know this can be dangerous.

Using One Hand Less: Using an underwater electric thruster means you’ll have at least one hand occupied. This can be a bit inconvenient if you need to do delicate tasks like taking macro photos or handling other diving equipment. Not a deal-breaker, but definitely a minor hassle.

Feeling Colder: Since you’re not kicking to move, your body generates less heat. So, be prepared to feel colder, especially in cooler waters. Make sure to wear your suit!

Distraction and Extra Workload: Operating an underwater motor thruster isn’t just about turning it on and forgetting it. It requires attention, which can distract you from important things like navigation or keeping an eye on your dive buddies. A silly distraction underwater can get you into trouble.

Cost and Maintenance: These gadgets aren’t cheap and require good maintenance. From charging batteries to checking components, you’ll need to invest time and money.

Limitations in Strong Currents: If you dive in strong currents, the DPV can complicate things. Maneuvering an underwater motor thruster in these conditions requires skill to avoid being swept away (literally).

5. Types of Underwater Thrusters for Diving

Thinking about getting one of these underwater propulsion devices? From basic handheld scooters to advanced personal underwater thrusters for serious divers, there’s a Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) for every level of diving and budget. Here’s a rundown:

Mini or Recreational DPVs: Perfect for confined, shallow waters or exploring calm reefs. These come in two main types:

• Surface Scooters: Compact, easy to handle, and low-powered. They have a short battery life but are ideal for beginners. With these, you can cover huge distances effortlessly, although they are best suited for shallow depths.
• Tow-Behind Sleds: Non-motorized boards dragged from the surface. You hold onto one of these while the boat pulls you. You’ll need to control direction and depth by maneuvering the board yourself.

Advanced and Technical DPVs: Larger and more powerful. These require both hands to operate and can reach incredible depths with impressive speed.

Tow-Behind Scooters: These are like small torpedoes with protected propellers. Divers hold on and are zoomed through the water like superheroes. These electric underwater thrusters are extremely popular in both recreational and technical diving. Why? Because they are easy to use and incredibly efficient—think of it as having your own car to explore the ocean!

Commercial or Military DPVs: These are the heavyweights used for underwater tourism, boat inspections, scientific exploration, or military operations.

Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDVs): The top-of-the-line in underwater propulsion, SDVs are large, robust, and designed to carry multiple divers with all their gear. They’re the go-to for military, technical diving, and commercial operations. With one of these, you can cover vast distances underwater and carry everything you need without breaking a sweat.

Wet Subs: For those who need comfort and control underwater, wet subs let you sit or lie down, breathe from your tank, and cruise along!

Semi-Wet Subs: Explore the ocean without getting fully wet. They feature an air bubble that allows you to breathe and chat with other occupants. These are perfect for tourists who don’t have diving certifications but still want a taste of aquatic adventure!

Manned Torpedoes: Just like in James Bond movies, manned torpedoes are advanced underwater propulsion devices used mainly by the military for infiltration and reconnaissance missions. First used during World War II, these gadgets are the ultimate in underwater motor thruster technology.

6. The Art of Choosing the Perfect Diver Propulsion Vehicle

Looking for a Diver Propulsion Vehicle or perhaps an underwater scooter to take your diving adventures to the next level?

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Diver Propulsion Vehicle

1. Intended Use: Recreational diving, technical diving, or cave exploration? This will determine the features you need. It’s not the same for a relaxed dive as it is to explore a wreck at high speed.
2. Maximum Depth: Ensure that the Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) is designed for the depths you plan to dive.
3. Battery Life: Battery duration and range are crucial. Nobody wants to get stuck halfway, especially underwater or in a cave.
4. Weight and Size: Look for a manageable model, especially if you prefer to travel light. You don’t want to be weighed down by a monster that leaves you drained before you even start.
5. Price: Watch out for deals! Sometimes, cheap can be costly. Find a balance between cost and quality to avoid unpleasant surprises.
6. Additional Features: Navigation systems, speed options, and more. Choose what best suits your needs!
7. Maintenance: Rinsing your DPV with fresh water after each use to avoid corrosion is basic. But what else will the gadget need? Find out before you make a purchase.
8. Equipment Compatibility: Ensure all your gear is compatible or consider what you’ll need to make it work.
9. Diver Experience: Don’t dive in without knowing how to swim. It’s recommended to have at least 25 dives and good buoyancy skills before handling a DPV. Consider taking a training course.

Recommendations

Prioritize Safety: Don’t be tempted by cheap models. Safety comes first.

Training: Don’t underestimate the importance of a DPV course, even if you already have diving experience.

Some Models You Might Consider:

• SUEX 7SEVEN: Ideal for beginners and travel-friendly. Maximum depth of 80 meters and 75 minutes of battery life.
• SUEX VR-T: For recreational diving. Maximum depth of 101 meters and 100 minutes of cruising autonomy.
• SUEX XK: Depth of up to 200 meters and 330 minutes of autonomy. Preferred by technical divers and professionals.
• Seacraft: Advanced technology and navigation systems, ideal for advanced divers.
• ScubaJet Pro: Modular and versatile design for different environments, with powerful performance.
• LEFEET S1 Pro: Compact and easy to transport. Three speed options and a modular design that allows adding a second motor.
• Sublue WhiteShark Mix: Dual motors and action camera compatibility. Designed for underwater photography enthusiasts!
• Bonex Aquaprop L and Subgravity Bonex Ecos S: Recommended for technical diving.

7. Courses and Certifications for Safe Diving with a Diver Propulsion Vehicle

Do you think you can just dive in with an underwater scooter and hope everything goes smoothly, or are you the type who prefers to know what they’re doing? Getting certified means you not only learn to use an underwater thruster motor but also ensure you’re up to date with all safety standards. Without proper training, you could find yourself in a bigger mess than expected, especially if something goes wrong underwater.

Top Agencies for Your Diver Propulsion Vehicle Certification

• SDI (Scuba Diving International): If you’re looking for technical training, this is your agency. They specialize in technical diving and handling advanced gadgets like underwater motors. They offer two courses: SDI DPV Diver for recreational divers and TDI DPV Diver for technical divers. Not the most original names, but they know their stuff.
• PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors): They offer a course to help recreational divers get familiar with using Diver Propulsion Vehicles. Perfect for those who want to start exploring with electric underwater thrusters.
• SSI (Scuba Schools International): SSI provides training in practical techniques and safety so you can master your underwater electric motor like a pro with their DPV Diving course.

What Will You Learn in the Course?

• Handling the DPV: From turning on and off your scooter to adjusting speed like a true underwater maestro.
• Diving Techniques: Learn how to move with your underwater propulsion device without losing style, including navigation and buoyancy control.
• Safety and Emergencies: Prepare for the unexpected. You’ll learn how to react if your underwater thruster motor loses power or if you encounter battery issues.
• Dive Planning: How to make your dive epic? Proper planning is key. You’ll learn to manage the scooter’s battery life and decide the maximum depth you can safely reach.
• Basic Maintenance: It’s not just about using your underwater motor thruster; keeping it in top shape is crucial. You’ll learn the basics to ensure your Diver Propulsion Vehicle remains in great condition.

8. Safety Tips and Basic Guidelines for Diving with a Diver Propulsion Vehicle

Get Trained: Learn how to operate your Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) like a pro and what to do if things get tricky. It’s crucial to manage your buoyancy while using an underwater thruster motor. Are you on top of it?

Practice on Land: Don’t dive straight in. Get comfortable with the controls and handling of your underwater motor thruster on the surface before you hit the water.

Plan Your Dive: Before you dive, plan your immersion carefully. Outline a clear route, set the maximum depth, and make sure everyone in your group is aware of the plan. Consider the battery life of your electric underwater thruster and ensure it’s enough for your planned time underwater.

Pre-Dive Checklist: Check the battery, test the gear, and have an emergency plan in place. Don’t leave anything to chance!

Follow Manufacturer’s Safety Instructions: Always adhere to the safety guidelines provided by the DPV manufacturer. This includes not exceeding the recommended depth and avoiding use in adverse weather conditions or strong currents.

Watch Your Depth: Don’t change depths too quickly. Underwater scooters can rapidly shift you up or down, so be cautious.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye on everything around you—seaweed, fishing lines, and marine life. You don’t want to get snagged or hit.

Monitor Your Air Supply: Underwater thrusters can extend your distance, so keep a close watch on your gas supply to avoid running low unexpectedly.

Keep an Eye on Your Buddy: Maintain visual contact and stay close if possible. Communicate and ensure your buddy is comfortable using the underwater electric motor. Be ready to assist if needed.

Be Ready to Detach Quickly: Make sure you can release the scooter underwater fast if something goes wrong.

Prepare for Emergencies: Know how to stop the underwater propulsion motor quickly and have a plan for any equipment failures.

Maintain Your Equipment: After each use, rinse the DPV with fresh water to remove salt and other residues. Check the battery condition and ensure it’s fully charged before your next dive. Follow the manufacturer’s regular maintenance recommendations.

Do you have a Diver Propulsion Vehicle? Share your experience in the comments on Facebook!