Sea scooters, also known as diver propulsion vehicles, contain battery-powered electric motors that allow you to cover more distance more quickly when scuba diving or snorkeling. These devices also allow you to remain in the water longer without running out of energy. Though each sea scooter model functions slightly differently, you can follow the same basic procedure to snorkel with any of them.
Step 1
Charge the sea scooter's battery fully before using it in the water. Consult the product's instruction manual for specific battery charging instructions.
Step 2
Put on your snorkeling gear, including fins, mask and snorkel, before getting into the water and turning on the sea scooter. If you have long hair, wear it in a swimming cap or tied up and back to avoid getting it caught in the sea scooter.
Step 3
Scout the area in which you will be snorkeling to check for obstacles such as jutting rocks, boats or other vehicles. If you see such obstacles, do not snorkel in that area with a sea scooter.
Step 4
Enter the water and grip the sea scooter by the handle. Keep one hand on the handle and use the other hand to flip the on-off switch on the scooter to turn it on.
Step 5
Hold onto the scooter's handles with both hands as you snorkel. Let the scooter stay in front of you and below you while it propels you forward.
Step 6
Adjust your speed using the controls on the scooter's handles. Depending on the model, you might be able to choose between two or three different speed settings. Most sea scooter models propel you about 2 or 3 mph.
Step 7
Turn the scooter with your arms to change your direction.
Step 8
Keep your starting point, whether a dock, the shore or a boat, close by and within sight so you don't get lost. Return to your starting point well before the sea scooter's battery runs out. Most sea scooters can run for one to two hours. Check the manual for your model to find out how long you can expect the battery charge to last.
Step 9
Flip the scooter's on-off switch to the off position to turn the scooter off and stop your motion. Most sea scooters automatically shut off if you accidentally let go of them. Most sea scooter models also have positive buoyancy, meaning they float if you let go of them.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult the product's manual for maximum depth information if you plan to dive below the surface. Avoid getting sunscreen on the sea scooter's plastic exterior. Sunscreen can damage the plastic. Supervise children while they snorkel with the sea scooter. Wear a personal flotation device and snorkel with a buddy for added safety. Monitor tidal changes, currents and weather conditions while snorkeling. Get out of the water if you see lightning or hear thunder. Some scuba certification organizations, such as PADI, offer courses about diving with propulsion vehicles.
- Tides, currents, storms, boats and sea creatures can all pose risks to snorkelers' safety. Snorkel at your own risk.
Things You'll Need
- Sea scooter
- Fins
- Mask
- Snorkel
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