Apollo AV-2 and Sea-Doo Seascooter Explorer

By Charles Hood

Diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs) are rapidly gaining popularity with the recreational sports diver. The main reason being that recent models are managing to combine a relatively deep depth capability at a relatively cheap price.

Apollo AV-2

Sea-Doo Seascooter Explorer

Apollo AV-2 £1,395

Sea-Doo Seascooter Explorer £599

Diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs) are rapidly gaining popularity with the recreational sports diver. The main reason being that recent models are managing to combine a relatively deep depth capability at a relatively cheap price. Two new products on the market - the Apollo AV-2 and the Sea-Doo Seascooter Explorer - demonstrate these qualities perfectly.

The designs of the two vehicles transport divers through the water in different ways, with each manufacturer claiming that theirs is the best method. When using the Sea-Doo model you hang on with both hands and it pulls you along. By contrast, you straddle the Apollo and it pushes you from behind.

DIVE has tested them both for a month, with several different divers using them in a variety of conditions. Our conclusion is that they both work well, but are tailored to two different styles of diving.

The more conventional Explorer is the latest in the Sea-Doo Seascooter range. It features a variable tri-stage speed control that produces enough thrust for a top speed of three knots. It is rated to a depth of 50m and at 14.5kg weighs about the same as a single-cylinder scuba set, including the battery. Operation is simple - you hang onto the two vertical handles, squeeze either one of the two triggers and the propeller starts up. By momentarily releasing then squeezing the trigger again, a faster speed is selected and, if repeated for a third time, maximum power is achieved. By contrast, the Apollo AV-2 is depth-rated to 70m - 20m deeper than the Explorer - and has a slower top speed at just over two knots. In terms of weight, it carries an additional 3.5kg, but it's the way it propels you through the water that is different. Effectively, you sit on it and pull the trigger! 'It's like being 'goosed' by an oversized yellow watermelon with a propeller attached', said one of our testers.

There are two side handles to keep you stabilised, and a ratchet trigger that provides variable thrust settings. What this method of propulsion provides is hands-free riding. It took a bit of getting used to, but after around 15 minutes we started to get the hang of things and discovered the true manoeuvrability of this method of propulsion. I wouldn't go quite so far as to say you could operate a camera at the same time, although I guess with enough practice this could be another possible advantage over the Explorer. If, however, the idea of being pushed rather than pulled doesn't appeal, then the Explorer is a better choice and easier to get to grips with. We used the Explorer with all of its four trim weights attached, and even then it is still buoyant - if you would prefer it to be negative, you would need to add more. Both these DPVs are ideal for whizzing through the water - great for exploring a new site, or viewing the whole of a wreck. Not only do they give you a greater distance of travel, but they decrease your air consumption.

Both models are powered by sealed lead acid batteries and feature low-battery voltage protection, over-current protection, high temperature protection, safety lock, auto shut-off function and battery status indicator. The maximum run times stated - 120 minutes for the Explorer and 100 minutes for the AV-2 - are a bit optimistic. We found that 60 minutes at full speed was closer to the mark. Charging is straightforward: both machines have light indicators informing you when charging is complete, which took around ten hours in each case.

Are they just toys? Well, yes and no. If you want to have fun, participate in underwater races or interact with playful seals, the AV-2 should fit the bill. On the other hand, if you are carrying out a wreck survey or want to explore a large area in a short space of time, then a DPV is invaluable and I'd go for the Explorer. On deep dives, when bottom time is limited, it gives you the opportunity to see far more. Either way, both these models will do the job very well.

Verdict: Apollo AV-2

Great for the recreational user
Value: 6/10
Performance: 8/10

Contact: CJ Evans 01258 451269
Website: www.cjei.co.uk

Verdict: Sea-Doo Seascooter Explorer

Ideal for survey and wreck work
Value: 8/10
Performance: 8/10

Contact: Alpha Distribution 01709 515157
Website: www.daka-designs.com