Buying guide for best sea scooters
Some call it the closest experience you can have to flying. It is a leisurely activity that is absolutely invigorating, providing all the thrills of a daredevil pursuit without the risk. If you'd like to partake in an adventure that is truly like no other, gliding effortlessly through the water, you may want to consider purchasing a sea scooter.
The best sea scooter is lightweight and easily portable. It has a reliable, long-lasting battery and fits within your budget. If you enjoy documenting your underwater excursions, your sea scooter needs to have a camera mount so you can shoot those breathtaking underwater videos.
Key considerations
Safety
Safety should always come first. There is enough to be concerned about when partaking in an underwater activity, so you don't want to worry about being injured by your sea scooter as well. Be sure to purchase a model with fully encased propellers so there is no danger of injury from the blades. Also, you will want a sea scooter that has an automatic shutoff so you won't lose your ride in the event that you lose your grip.
Intended use
Beyond safety, the most important aspect of purchasing a sea scooter is knowing how you intend to use it. If it's just a fun toy to play with in a swimming pool, that is a very different model than one that can descend to over 100 feet deep. After you've decided where and how your sea scooter will be used, move on to the next section to see a list of potential features so you can decide which ones you will need your model to have.
Safety is among our top concerns when researching sea scooters. We look for options that provide fully encased propellers for extra protection.
Typically sea scooters come with a rechargeable battery. We investigate each option for batteries that are dependable and long-lasting.
Most sea scooters provide a small amount of buoyancy since it makes it easier for newcomers. We research each option to see how well they work for beginners.
Camera mounts can allow you to record your adventures while underwater. We vet each sea scooter to see if they have additional beneficial features such as mounts.
Some sea scooters are made to go in deeper waters than others. We evaluate each option to see if they can go down to the adequate depth for the situation.
Battery life is 1 of the highest priorities when considering a sea scooter. Our research looks for batteries that will work well over prolonged periods of use.
When deciding on a sea scooter, speed can be an important aspect. We look for models that provide adequate speed and precision in the water.
Various sea scooters may have slightly different designs that allow for better hydrodynamics. We vet each option to make sure that the design works well in the water.
Sea scooters range in price from $200-$800. We weigh the pros and cons of each option to provide good value for the price point.
Many sea scooters will come with an automatic shut-off feature in case you fall off. This is among our top considerations when conducting research.
Features
Maximum depth
If you're just using a sea scooter to ride around in a pool or to stay near the surface of the water, any model can do that. However, if you have a need to go deeper than 15 feet, you'll have to get a more specific type of sea scooter. If you are a novice, be careful about purchasing a model that can go deep. There is training you will need to take to learn how to safely descend deeper into the water and then ascend back to the surface.
Charging time
There are two factors that you will need to consider regarding the battery. The first is charging time. If you are not a planner and tend to do things at the last minute, you will likely need a battery that can charge relatively quickly. If you map out your adventures in advance, however, charging time will not necessarily be as big of a deal to you.
Battery life
Battery life is crucial. In the best-case scenario, if your battery runs out of juice, it will simply bring an end to the festivities. In the worst-case scenario, it could leave you stranded. Think about what you want to do with your sea scooter, and find a model that will allow you to comfortably do that. Also, remember that advertised battery times are for optimal conditions. If you're cruising around at top speed and carrying a lot of gear, you might only get half of the battery life that you are expecting.
Buoyancy
Ideally, your sea scooter will give you some control over buoyancy. Unfortunately, most models do not have that feature, so you'll need to compromise. The less buoyant a model is, the easier it will sink, which can be good if you are doing deep dives. However, if you will be staying near the surface, you will want a sea scooter that is buoyant enough to help keep you there.
Speed
Unless you are purchasing a high-end model, your sea scooter will only travel two, three, or maybe four miles per hour. If you would like a little choice, look for a model with different speed settings so you can slow down to explore.
Camera mount
Chances are good that you want a sea scooter so you can take underwater photos and videos. If that is the case, you will want a model that features a camera mount.
Weight
The weight of your sea scooter shouldn't be too much of an issue while it is in the water (unless your battery dies and you have to drag it back to shore). However, when you are carrying your sea scooter on land, you will appreciate a lighter model. Just don't make the mistake of going too far and sacrificing durability for a lighter weight.
Color and design
Many sea scooters look similar, and their only distinction is small modifications in shape and color. Unfortunately, in order to get a model that can do everything you need it to do, you may have to settle for a color that is not your favorite. Additionally, at the higher end of the price spectrum, you will find models featuring drastically different designs. The key is to get the features you need without getting too hung up on style.
Did you know?
If you happen to fall off your sea scooter, don't fret. Once you let go of the controls, the device will shut off so it doesn't get away from you.
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Sea scooter prices
Sea scooters range in price from just over $200 to $1,500. The main differences in models are the maximum depth and the maximum speed that the units can reach.
Inexpensive
In the $200 to $400 range, you can expect to travel around two miles per hour for about an hour (under optimum conditions) and go 15 to 30 feet deep.
Mid-range
When you move up to the $400 to $800 range, the models may run a little longer, but they can travel at least twice as deep. Most still won't reach speeds greater than three miles per hour, however.
Expensive
Once you get to the realm of sea scooters that cost $800 and more, you can find machines that reach a depth of 100 feet or more. At the upper end, you may find models that run for close to two hours (under optimum conditions) and reach speeds of six miles per hour or greater.
Tips
Although sea scooters are designed to be safe and easy to use, there are a number of factors to keep in mind to prevent unfortunate incidents from occurring. Following is a list of some of the most important safety tips.
Inspect your sea scooter before every outing. The fact that it worked last time doesn't mean it will work this time.
Replace old batteries. Your batteries will only last about four years. Pay attention to a battery that starts to lose its charge quickly, so you don't get stranded halfway through your adventure.
Use the buddy system. Never venture out into the water alone, and never travel out of sight from your buddy.
Know your environment. Be aware of other divers, boats, potential hazards, seaweed, and marine life.
Remember how to descend and ascend. A sea scooter makes it easy to accidentally break the rules; do not forget your training.
- Don't push your limits. Know what you are capable of, and stay well within those parameters.
FAQ
Q. Who might want to use a sea scooter?
A. Divers, snorkelers, and swimmers can all enjoy sea scooters. The purpose isn't fast joyriding; the scooter allows you to travel through the water without fatiguing so you can better enjoy your activity. It also lets you travel with more gear than you would be able to comfortably carry without the device.
Sea scooters can be used by rescue divers to help broaden the scope of the area they can cover.
Q. How do I steer a sea scooter?
A. Steering a sea scooter is easy. In fact, it may be a little too easy for beginners. All it takes is a slight shift of your body weight (comparable to leaning) in order to steer. Remember, it’s best practice to get some professional sea scooter training before you do anything too advanced with your sea scooter.
Q. How should I store my sea scooter when I will not be using it for an extended period?
A. Before putting your sea scooter away, give it a thorough inspection to make sure everything is in optimum working condition and there are no visible problems, such as damage or leaks. Then, give the unit a good cleaning to remove any lingering salt or chemicals. After drying it, store your sea scooter in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Every two to three months, give the battery a charge, or put the battery on a trickle charger so it will be ready to use when you need it next.
Q. Could I outrun a shark on a sea scooter?
A. Definitely not. A great white shark can swim about 25 miles per hour. Most sea scooters don’t go faster than about four or six miles per hour.
