Top 10 Best Underwater Scooters [2021]

The underwater scooters are one of the best companions of divers in their exploration on the seabed. A true support for moving further and faster effortlessly, it offers all the leisure to visit the most beautiful dive sites, coral reefs, shipwrecks, and explore the fauna and flora. Ideal for beginners who do not yet have much experience in scuba diving or for those who practice snorkeling and diving enthusiasts in general, underwater scooters are tempting.

When you enjoy the aquatic environment, you often want to explore it. Indeed, beneath the surface especially in the seas and oceans, there are many wonders. Corals, fish, algae, the ocean floor allows you to discover an unexpected universe. To observe, but also swim in depths at higher speeds, you can opt for an underwater scooter.

What is an underwater scooter?

An underwater scooter or Drive Propulsion Vehicle (DPV), is a device that allows you to operate in depths at higher speeds than if you did so with the sole force of your arms and legs. Even with fins, swimming can look slow for adrenaline junkies when you’re under the surface. The word sea scooter, which evokes speed and the idea of movement, has been retained to explain its role to the general public. An underwater scooter consists of a propeller and an electric motor. Connected to the device by a harness, the user only has to cling to the handle to be propelled at a higher speed. The interest of using a scooter beyond speed is the ability to explore more seabeds than you would normally do.

When you are immersed, the sensations are already strong because the ocean floor is nothing like what you face on the surface. When you combine this feeling with speed, you feel totally grayed out.

But how do you know which model to buy? Is it necessary to have a particular level to practice this nautical activity? Few sites allow. We have deciphered the records of the best underwater scooters, to provide you with concrete answers on these unusual products.

Yamaha Seal Yamaha Explorer Yamaha RDS250 CellBee Sea Scooter Sublue WhiteShark Mix

Best
Value

Yamaha Seal

Editors
Choice

Yamaha Explorer

Yamaha RDS250
CellBee Sea Scooter
Sublue WhiteShark Mix
3.9

275 reviews

3.8

114 reviews

3.6

128 reviews

4.4

56 reviews

4.4

173 reviews

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Top 10 Best Underwater Scooters

Yamaha Seal

Yamaha Seal

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  • PROS

    • Lightweight and has a positive buoyancy
    • Produced by one of the most trusted brands
    • Highly affordable
  • CONS

    • Has a slightly lower power compared to Sea Doo Dolphin which is its closest competitor
3.9

275 reviews

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The Yamaha Seal sea scooter is a great choice for a family trip. It’s not the fastest scooter underwater, with a speed of 3.2 kph (1.98mph), but it will do for kids 8 and older. Adults can use it as well. The propellers are covered by grates, protecting your fingers. You will still have to pay attention to your hair if it is long; make sure you tie them up properly. The Yamaha scooter underwater design is closely similar to that of the Sea Doo Dolphin but with improved aesthetics.

This entry-level underwater scooter has a long battery life and is ideal for use in the sea. It is also compatible with calm fresh lakes and rivers with minimal current.

Designed for family fun in the pool, packs a thrust speed of up to 2mph / 3. 2km/h, rated for 15ft / 4. 6m running depths with a run time up to 1. 5 hours with normal use. It includes an auto-shutoff, dual-trigger control, caged propeller casing the Seal is a must for every child or child at heart. One of the most important features of the Seal scooter underwater that is not present in its Sea Doo Dolphin competitor is the positive buoyancy. Meaning you the device will float if it loses its inability to propel while under the sea. The total weight is 12lbs (5.4kgs). The machine’s size is 11. 25x 11. 25 x 19 inch

Yamaha Explorer

Yamaha Explorer

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  • PROS

    • Although an entry-level DPV and built for beginners, experts can use this machine too.
    • Affordable for a product that comes from a highly-respected company
  • CONS

    • Has less buoyancy in fresh lakes and rivers and could slowly sink (exclusively designed for sea diving)
3.8

114 reviews

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The Yamaha Explorer underwater scooters have been designed for young divers and diving enthusiasts. The Explorer is actually very similar to the Seal mentioned above. Its battery doesn’t last as long, but the Explorer can go a little faster (4 km per hour) and dive a little deeper (10 meters) than the Seal.

Another great product from Yamaha and closely resembles Sea Doo Dolphin, the Yamaha Explorer has everything every amateur divers need. This is an entry-level model DPV with cruising speed up to 2. 5mph(4kph) with a depth rating of 30ft(10m), perfect for shallow dives, snorkeling adventures, or chasing fish

Built for safety, the machine includes an auto-shutoff, dual-trigger control, caged propeller casing, Weight 11. 5 lbs / 5. 2 kg including battery, size: 11. 77″ x 11. 10″ x 20. 5″. It is also fitted with a built-in mount that allows users to seamlessly take videos of their experience using their sports camera of choice (Camera/GoPro sold separately).

Yamaha RDS250

Yamaha RDS250

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  • PROS

    • Great upgrade from Yamaha Seal and Yamaha Explorer
    • Have longer range and speed compared to Sea Doo Dolphin
    • Have more power and drag compared to its closest competitors
  • CONS

    • Although it is a better upgrade, the price is a bit higher too
3.6

128 reviews

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The third Yamaha product in this list, the Yamaha’s RDS250 scooter underwater is designed for amateur users over the age of 16. This particular model, the RDS250, is between the RDS 300 models and the RDS200 in the range.

Compared to the RDS300 underwater scooters (90-minute range and 5 km/h speed), the RDS250 Yamaha SeaScooter offers a better range but is slightly slower. The RDS200, on the other hand, offers a lower speed and a shorter range (60 minutes and 3 km/h). Compared to Sea Doo Dolphin, the RDS250 Yamaha Seascooter is superior in all aspects and features.

Thus, the RDS250 scooter underwater is a good compromise between speed and autonomy. All three RDS models are equipped with camera mounts and a buoyancy control system. The device is powered by a Sealed Lead Acid Battery which is included in the package. The machine size is 24″ x 15. 2″ x 12. 3″ / 612 x 385 x 312 (mm), It weighs just 18 lbs (8.2kg) including battery. It is light and easy to carry offshore or on the land.

CellBee Sea Scooter

CellBee Sea Scooter

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  • PROS

    • Highly affordable with a unique design
    • Extremely lightweight at 2.7kg (5.9lbs)
    • A dual underwater propeller that helps provide more power
  • CONS

    • Although lightweight, the underwater scooter looks bulky and may be difficult to fit inside a bag, compared to other single underwater propeller scooters.
4.4

56 reviews

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The CellBee Underwater SeaScooter has a unique design and features a dual underwater propeller that helps power the device. The machine adopts classic yellow/ black colors that are different from other DPVs on the market by applying scientific streamline and symmetrical design, and it can be used with the majority of sports cameras for shooting, allowing you and your children’s family to enjoy offshore fun.

The CellBee DPV is equipped with a 360W high-power motor. The maximum depth it can dive is 30m/98 ft., and it can reach 1.2 miles (4.3kph/ 2.7mph) at maximum speed. The performance is excellent. There is a button for adjusting the speed on the machine, which high speed and low speed can be switched by one key. CellBee’s underwater scooter has a built-in 4400mAh battery (similar to dolphin sea scooter battery), which can last for up to 45min in low-speed mode/up to 20mins in high-speed mode.

CellBee’s underwater scooter weighs 2.7kg (5.9lbs), measures 19x10x6 in inches, and its built-in battery allows you to check it on the plane.

Sublue WhiteShark Mix

Sublue WhiteShark Mix

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  • PROS

    • Provided with a floater to achieve zero buoyancy
    • The dual underwater propellers are designed with a safe protective net to prevent fingers from accidental injury.
  • CONS

    • Limited only to pools and shallows
4.4

173 reviews

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The Sublue WhiteShark Mix Underwater Scooter has a unique design, dual underwater propeller, and is extremely lightweight.

Compared to a scooter underwater with a single underwater propeller like the Sea Doo Dolphin, this DPV is easy to maneuver because it has an overhead flap that serves as a submarine fin that helps maintain the device in its proper position.

The device has a simplified user-friendly design for quick and simple use. Streamlined and symmetrical design. It has a universal interface compatible with almost all sports cameras which can be mounted to record everything on the ocean floor in a most direct view. Keep the kids busy during this special period of time. Making space for social-distancing will be wise. This will be a powerful tool to keep the kids busy in the pool, fun enough to keep them stay at home.

This portable device is small but with large energy. The total weight of 3.5kgs (7.7lbs) makes it easy to carry without any troubles during traveling, double thrusters release 8kgf thrust to explore in the deep.

One of the best underwater scooters, the WhiteShark is powered by a sealed and chargeable 11000hAm battery, which can run up for 30 minutes in normal usage. The working depth is rated to 40m, with a maximum of 3.35mph (5.39kph) speed.

Geneinno S1

Geneinno S1

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  • PROS

    • Unique design with dual propellers for more drag
    • Lightweight and easy to carry
    • Positive buoyancy and can easily float when runs out of power
  • CONS

    • Available in 2 options but the number 2 option is two times more expensive than the first option
3.4

56 reviews

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The Geneinno S1 is no more than an underwater scooter – it’s your best sea companion ever. Designed to fit in your airplane carry-on and lightweight at 7.7lbs (3.5kgs), you can take it with you whenever and wherever.

Kids are especially curious about the ocean, so S1 is designed with a safety lock to prevent accidents and improper usage. The device is powered by a dual strong underwater propeller that supports the thrust up to 26.5lbs, making your cruise through the ocean at 4mph (6.43kph).

Most recreational divers are limited to a depth of 98 ft (30 m). The S1 can easily take divers down to 164 ft (50 m), reducing the time and energy below. It is also easy to use for people of all ages and offers 60 minutes of submerged flying experience up to 164ft in depth.

The S1 underwater scooter is built with positive buoyancy so you never have to worry about losing it in the ocean. When runs out of power, let the device float to the surface to exchange the battery

Aquarobotman MagicJet

Aquarobotman MagicJet

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  • PROS

    • Have a long operational time at 100 hours
    • Unique design
    • Can dive deeper up to 50 meters
  • CONS

    • Price is a bit higher compared to most of its competitors
4.5

12 reviews

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The Aquarobotman MagicJet Seascooter is one of the most unique underwater scooters because of its unconventional design. At first glance, you might think it’s a hairdryer until you realized that the fan is actually a propeller.

Unlike many conventional underwater scooters like Sea Doo Dolphin and Yamaha series, the MagicJet has a longer running time. Its battery could last up to 100 minutes and can be plugged into a charger while being submerged. There are two-rate settings: high (4.0mph) and low (2.7mph) speed and can dive depth up to 50m to satisfy your curiosity about the deep sea. The 2-in-1 modular design allows the use of two scooters in parallel for a better experience, making it more powerful and faster. Supports one-handed or two-handed use.

The machine is safe to explore with. It can indicate the battery’s remaining capacity to keep you safe. The propeller is designed with a safe protective net to prevent fingers from accidental injury. The excellent weather-proof design supports battery replacement under the sea.

Windek Sublue Seabow

Windek Sublue Seabow

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  • PROS

    • Great design
    • Dual marine propellers
    • 3-speed selectors
  • CONS

    • Its higher price tag might not be friendly for all
4.8

32 reviews

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The Windek Sublue Seabow is another unique underwater scooter that looked like a futuristic airplane seen in many Sci-Fi movies. It has two marine propellers for maximum power and thrust.

The Seabow has a superior performance and the battery life can last up to 60mins. It features a 3-speed switch, 2m/s (4.47mph) Max speed, 40m (131ft), all these remarkable specifications guarantee the powerful performance you are looking for.

Quickly switch between three speeds (FREE, SPORT, TURBO) to find new thrills on the ocean. Top speed at 2m/s (4.47mph), as fast as the men’s 200m freestyle world champion. The max 60 mins battery life (per single charge) delivers an ultimate seafloor experience.

The DPV supports single-hand control with a DTC kit (D-ring buckle and tow cord), which enables the user to help relieve ear pressure (equalize). The machine allows you to have a quick view of the operating status. The OLED displays data including speed, battery life, hand operation mode, and operating time continuously. The universal interface is compatible with almost ALL action cameras in the market. With the low battery alert, the unit will flash and vibrate if low on battery life.

G Geneinno S1-Pro

G Geneinno S1-Pro

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  • PROS

    • Dual thrusters for maximum thrust
    • Fair price for a dual-propeller model
  • CONS

    • At 45 mins on a full charge, it has a shorter range compared to its closest competitor
5.0

9 reviews

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The G Geneinno S1-Pro is another underwater scooter to consider when buying a DPV. It has a unique design, dual thrusters, looked balanced when submerged.

This DPV is designed to run Over 1000 hours of lifetime. Utilized the Omni-sealed inner rotor for it is not only tough to bear higher pressure but also exhibits great corrosion resistance. The maintenance-free bearing is sealed with exclusive oil, you do not need to maintain the motor at all.

Compared to its predecessor, the operational sound is now lowered to less than 60dB. The powerful dual thrusters produce up to 26.5lbs (12 kg) of thrust, propelling you through the deep at 4mph (6.5 kph) and dive up to 164 ft. The scooter has a 2-speed level: 4 mph (6.5 kph) and 2.2 mph(3.4 kph) modes allow for a wide range of diving experiences. The battery has a maximum running time of 45mins on a single charge.

Yamaha RDS300

Yamaha RDS300

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  • PROS

    • Better upgrade than the YamahaRDS250
    • Sleek design and powerful single propeller
    • With built-in mount allows users to seamlessly take videos of their experience using their sports camera of choice.
  • CONS

    • Weighs 18 lbs. / 8. 2 kg including battery (considered heavy)
    • Limited use in lakes and rivers
3.4

36 reviews

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The Yamaha RDS300 Seascooter is the 4th Yamaha in this least and is the better upgrade of the 3 previous models. This particular Yamaha model is lightweight and powerful. Designed to cruise at speeds up to 3.0mph (4.8kph) the RDS300 will allow you to maximize your diving experience. The 2-level rotational speed control system provides speeds up to 3mph / 4.8 kp/h, a depth rating of 100ft (30m) with a run time up to 1.5 hours with normal use.

The RDS300 is designed for use in the ocean. It will have less buoyancy in fresh lakes and rivers, and may slowly sink especially with strong current.

Interesting

What are the advantages of underwater scooters?

What are the advantages of underwater scooters?

Speed gain

Depending on the model, it is possible to swim at more than 5 kilometers per hour. When submerged the human body is subjected to different energies (braking, shape drag). It is often forgotten that water offers 1000 times more resistance than air! Unless swimming like dolphins, it can be difficult to move quickly when submerged. It is for this reason that man wears fins and flippers to split the water more fluidly. With a DPV, this aerodynamic appears, thanks to the rotating propeller, driven by the strength of the engine.

More depth

Before becoming a recreational device, the DPV was used for exploration and research purposes. It was then possible to go to caves or to go to shipwrecks. Now, even if the exploration side still has the coast, it is possible to use the marine scooter only for the pleasure of going fast when cruising below. An exhilarating sensation that any good swimmer over the age of 12 can experience.

It is possible to go up to 50 meters deep, with some devices. This is how they were designed to withstand the pressure, but in practice, it is recommended in diving not to exceed 40 meters, so as not to get into trouble. Beyond this depth, a marine drone will allow you to search for shots and videos safely.

To lift a freediver in difficult situations

When you dive, that is, when you dive without breathing naturally, you practice what is called apnea. You hold your breath because the human body is not made to breathe underwater like a fish can. But it is tempting for human beings to always push their limits. Even if modern diving computers, alert divers when they exceed their limits, it is better to be well equipped.

If we know that the record is more than 24 minutes (with oxygen inhalation before diving), it is illusory to believe that the common mortal can afford such a performance. Also, when you find yourself in a difficult situation at the bottom of the water, without oxygen and without force, owning a DPV can save your life. This allows for a quick and effortless ascent.

Who can dive with a DPV?

Who can dive with a DPV?

Anyone over the age of 12 can dive with such equipment. Devices that allow use by children over the age of 8 are recommended in the pool at first. They allow us to understand the concept of immersion and underwater swimming. It is of course necessary to dive with a DPV to have a very good level of swimming, but you must also be the holder of a PADI diving license or another equivalent qualification. You have to have some experience of diving in itself before using the device. Similarly, you need to know what to do in case of an emergency.

It is often possible to do a diving test with an instructor. After about 25 dives, it is estimated that you are able to use this type of seascooter. The goal is to enjoy your dive, not to put yourself in danger. You must have taken a minimum of two courses, during which you will be taught how to use and maintain the device. Then you will be certified. The latter will allow you to rent a device from the seas, all over the world… or own yours.

Observing what’s going on the ocean floor is an amazing experience. Memories are generally unanimous, for all those who have experienced them. Double the sensations by using an underwater scooter. Now you have all the keys to choose the dive device that’s right for you!

How to Clean A Submarine Scooter?

How to Clean A Submarine Scooter?

Cleaning an underwater scooter is essential to extend its lifespan. As the salinity of the ocean is particularly oxidizing for the various components of the device, it is important to rinse your machine systematically with clear water. Don’t forget to refer to the instructions for scooter maintenance.

What to Remember From Underwater Scooters

What to Remember From Underwater Scooters

The underwater scooter is ideal for discovering a natural environment that is always surprising. For freediving, bottle diving, snorkeling, and meeting the most beautiful diving spots in the world, the craft accompanies you everywhere like your faithful diving equipment.

Even if you only plan to practice recreational diving, don’t hesitate to ask a diving club about the best practices of this type of craft. To dive deeper and longer safely, you must have perfect control of this machine.

Underwater scooters vs dive thrusters: What are the differences?

Underwater scooters vs dive thrusters: What are the differences?

There are several names for these devices.

“Underwater scooter” and “diving thruster” are both used to refer to the same thing: a device that can propel a person in deep. These offshore vehicles are mainly used by divers to save energy and therefore air. However, they are also popular among diving enthusiasts or for fun days at the pool or lake.

Drive Propulsion Device: Buying guide

Drive Propulsion Device: Buying guide

Here’s a list of things to consider when choosing the underwater scooter that’s right for you.

Speed

If you’re looking to give a child an underwater scooter, a low-top speed will do the trick. You can aim for 3 or 4 km/h, which should satisfy their thirst for adventure.

For an adult, you may want to opt for something a little quicker. Most adult underwater scooter range from 4 to 6.5 km/h. However, you can find machines that go up to 9 km/h if you have the budget.

Depth

This feature is not very important if you plan to use your sea scooter with a mask and snorkel. However, if you are an experienced diver, we advise you to opt for a vessel that can reach a depth of more than 20 meters.

Buoyancy

If a manufacturer indicates that its seascooters have a “positive buoyancy”, this means that the device will float to the surface if you release it (seawater). However, this means that it will flow into rivers and other surfaces with the current.

In this case, you will need to make sure you have enough battery to rise to the surface if you are in the lake or river. Otherwise, you will have to carry the scooter up to the surface.

Some DPVs have neutral buoyancy, which means they will not sink or float. Of course, this depends on whether you use your underwater scooter in the sea, where it is easier to float, or in the pool or river.

You can quite take a sea scooter that floats well in the pool and adds weights if you use it in the sea.

In any case, you don’t need to be a buoyancy expert to know which product to choose. Manufacturers generally clearly indicate what type of water their products are designed for.

Rinse

If you use your sea scooter in the sea, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions as soon as you return ashore. Salt can seriously damage your underwater scooter if it is not properly rinsed!

Autonomy

As you shop for an underwater scooter, be sure to pay attention to the vehicle’s range. Most devices offer at least one hour of battery life before they need to be recharged. The best underwater scooter options can give you up to two hours of battery life.

If you choose an underwater scooter with a shorter use time, consider ordering one or two spare batteries.

Weight

Most sea scooters weigh less than 10kg (22lbs), which can still be a bit heavy for children if the device does not float.

Note that in case you run out of battery while you are still underwater, you will have to swim to the surface with the weight of the underwater scooter. So keep an eye on the state of the battery!

Conclusion

Conclusion

Drive Propulsion Devices (DPVs) are fun to ride and easy to acquire, but before buying one, make sure your child (if it is for your kid), will always be attended when diving in the ocean even in the shallows. It is always tempting to go deeper and could lead to an accident if your kid dives unnoticed. Safety is always important!

About the author

Phillip Gray

My name is Phillip Gray and I love going outdoors riding on skates and scooters. I work as a graphic designer and I love creativity. This is why I appreciate the different creative scooter’s designs. I’ve been riding on kick scooters ever since I was 5 and one of my early scooters had grown-up together with me.