Diver Propulsion Vehicle Review: SUEX VRT

FEATURE PAUL FIRTH PHOTOGRAPHY SUEX

As a PADI Master Instructor, I recently put the SUEX DPV’s recreational model – the VRT – to the test in Fujairah.

The VRT easily covers long distances and conserves breathing gas adding to the diving enjoyment, enabling more underwater exploration and adventure. The DPV is combined with solid engineering construction and Italian design styling. DPVs are probably the most fun you can have underwater!

Earning a certification in Diver Propulsion Vehicle use adds to the diver experience and enjoyment, but you must have professional training and the correct experience to use a DPV. Working with a team of students, I ran a DPV course to test both the equipment and the students. Fun and of course reliability and safety are important aspects when planning dives with a DPV.

After a dive brief, the students practiced scooter assembly and disassembly, a primary ‘O’ ring system and simple locking system results in a quick, easy and reliable process.

Two battery choices are available: Lithium and NiMH. The lithium has a good charging time and a longer dive duration. Charging to full power takes a maximum of 3-4 hours. The NiMH is flight friendly for transport, do make sure you present the right paperwork at the airport check in. We found that we were able to do two dives on one battery which makes for a great day of diving.

The VRT with a NiMH battery comes in at 16 kg which seems heavy at first. The VRT comes preset for freshwater, adding a provided set of salt water weights which is simplicity itself. The neutral buoyancy surprised the dive team in a positive manner.

A crotch harness with D-ring enables a cord connection to the DPV and a simple trigger control activates the motor with two speed modes – 45 m/min cruising speed and top speed of 65 m/min. Get ready to launch!

A shore dive saw the students quickly familiarising themselves with the DPV controls and the perfect neutral buoyancy of the VRT. After some initial straight line movement exercises the students moved on to simple turns by rotating the handle grip, followed by body movement which then creates banking power turns.

In closing it’s a hard choice, the Students had a blast and enjoyed the simplicity of the SUEX VRT design and handling. Handling this scooter underwater is simple as they are provided with easy to setup integral weight systems, the VRT’s neutral buoyancy aids handling and comfort underwater. The system is perfectly balanced and stable.

The weight is perhaps a challenge above water but this is offset by the ease of handling underwater and the speed options. Neutral buoyancy at any depth is astonishing and the speed is just breathtaking!

SUEX: THE SUBMARINE EXPLORATION COMPANY

Suex was born in the year 2000 with the aim of producing high performance underwater vehicles. Vehicles intended for long-range exploratory diving as well as deep technical diving. SUEX is unquestionably the technological leader in underwater mobility.

Performance, reliability, and manoeuvrability. A complete range of products combined with excellent assistance are the company’s trademark. The SUEX scooters are suitable for both sports and professional use.

WHY USE A SCOOTER UNDERWATER?

There are three distinct advantages of using DPVs while diving. Firstly, diving is only for a limited duration. By using a DPV you can see a wider area because you are able to travel faster. Whether you are sight seeing, or searching for an object, covering more ground is your main goal.

Secondly, the scooter does much of the work for you. It reduces your exertion and air consumption. Therefore, not only will you be able to see and cover a wider area, but you will also have more air to explore.

Finally, it is incredibly fun to ride a DPV underwater. Who does not want to move and feel like Iron man?

SUEX developed its DPVs with the top of the range features – connectivity between DPV and the diver. It is much more than just connecting a propeller to a motor.

ALPHA DIVING

SUEX PARTNER DEALER in the UAE and GCC

Contact Us for More Info Email: alphadivinguae@gmail.com Tel: +971 50 911 5630