The Best Scuba Diving Boats: 27-Foot Options

If you're looking for the best 27-foot boat for scuba diving, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, deck space is crucial as scuba diving gear is bulky and heavy, so a spacious deck allows for easy gear preparation and storage. Additionally, look for boats with hullside doors and large transoms, which provide convenient access to the water. Other desirable features include rack systems for storing dive tanks, freshwater shower systems for rinsing equipment, and ample storage space for accessories. While various boat types can be used for scuba diving, center consoles, walkarounds, work boats, and pilot house models are particularly suitable due to their ample deck space.

What features make a boat good for scuba diving?

A good boat for scuba diving will have features that make the experience enjoyable and safe. Here are some key considerations when choosing a boat for scuba diving:

Easy Entry and Exit Points

A crucial feature of a good scuba diving boat is easy access to the water. Look for a boat with a spacious dive platform and a low freeboard launch site. This makes entering and exiting the water safer and more convenient, especially when carrying heavy gear. A swim platform or a swim step close to the water's surface can also provide a safer entrance and exit point.

Additionally, consider the type of ladder on the boat. A dive ladder, which is T-shaped and has more rungs than a traditional swim ladder, is preferable. It allows divers to hold on with both hands and feet while removing gear, which is especially helpful in strong currents.

Ample Deck Space

Deck space is essential for scuba diving as it provides room for divers to move around comfortably and prepare for their dives. Look for a boat with an open deck that allows easy access to the dive entry and exit points. Fishing boats often have ample deck space, and some may even have transom and hullside doors that can double as access points to the water.

Storage for Diving Equipment

Diving involves a lot of gear and equipment, so ensure the boat has plenty of storage space. Look for a dedicated area to safely store tanks upright and wash and store wet gear.

Safety and Navigation Features

Safety should always be a top priority when scuba diving. Ensure the boat has essential safety equipment, such as life jackets, a first aid kit, and emergency signalling devices. Also, consider the engine and propulsion system's safety, especially in relation to the divers' boarding and disembarking points. Inboard engines with twin propellers located low on the hull are considered one of the safest options for dive boats.

Additionally, modern electronics and navigation features can enhance your diving experience and safety. Consider features such as 3D depth sounders, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), tide/current charts, and a VHF radio.

Amenities for Comfort

When choosing a boat for scuba diving, consider amenities that will make the experience more comfortable. Restrooms, freshwater showers, and shaded seating areas can make the time spent on the boat between dives more enjoyable and relaxing.

What are some boat models that are good for scuba diving?

When choosing a boat for scuba diving, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, deck space is crucial as scuba diving gear is large and heavy, so an open deck provides ample room for equipment and preparation. Additionally, hullside doors and large transoms facilitate easy access to the water. Other desirable features include rack systems for storing air tanks, freshwater shower systems, and spacious storage compartments.

Parker 2820 XLD Sport Cabin

With a length of 28 feet and a 9-foot, 6-inch beam, the Parker 2820 XLD offers a spacious deck for dive gear. It boasts a 21-degree deadrise for tackling rough seas and twin outboards mounted on an extended transom platform. The cabin features sturdy seating, an aluminium pilot house door, and a new anchor locker on the foredeck, fitted with stainless handrails. This boat also includes raw water and freshwater washdown systems and full hydraulic steering.

Farallon 2600 Walkaround

The Farallon 2600 Walkaround is an excellent choice for a privately owned dive boat. It is available with diesel stern drive or outboard power and has a fuel capacity of 150 gallons. The non-skid self-bailing deck is ideal for night dives, thanks to its LED aft deck work light. The outboard power option is particularly well-suited for diving, providing a stable platform. The 2600 Walkaround also offers a large berth with lighting and storage for overnight trips.

World Cat 230CC Center Console

The World Cat 230CC is a power catamaran, offering stability and rough sea handling. With twin 115-horsepower engines, it has ample power to reach your favourite dive spots. The unique features of this boat include a swim ladder mounted on the transom and folding seating options, providing a flat deck space for donning dive gear and protecting upholstery. The 230CC also offers ample storage and seating, making it a versatile choice.

Everglades 295 Center Console

The Everglades 295 Center Console is a beamy boat at 9 feet, 9 inches across, providing a spacious cockpit. It includes a powder-coat T-top over the helm station and an optional hullside access door. There is also a door to the transom with a telescoping ladder and a flip-up bench seat built into the transom. With a fuel capacity of 184 gallons and up to 600 HP, this boat can get you to and from your dive spots quickly and comfortably.

Intrepid 300 Center Console

The Intrepid 300 Center Console is a versatile boat, offering both utility and performance. With a length of 30 feet and a 9-foot, 6-inch beam, it provides ample space. The standard features include a transom door, a dive platform on each side, a head compartment, and a small storage compartment at the bow. You can further customise this boat with options like a T-top with recessed lighting, a transom shower, and a pressurised freshwater system. The fold-out hullside door with a built-in ladder and handrails makes re-boarding a breeze.

Scout 277 LXF

The Scout 277 LXF is a feature-rich boat, offering a fully walkable transom swim platform, a port-side swing-in door, forward seating with removable backrests and storage, and a private head with a locking door. Optional upgrades include upholstery, colour packages, underwater lights, outriggers, and a teak removable bow table. The deep-V hull ensures a smooth ride, and the classic styling adds to its appeal.

Grady-White Canyon 271

The Grady-White Canyon 271 features the exclusive SeaV2 hull design, providing a super smooth ride. It has a true self-bailing cockpit, making it ideal for offshore runs. This boat is packed with fishing features, including recessed low bow rails, lockable rod storage, a deluxe lean bar with a rigging station, and a sizable livewell. The cushioned bow seating includes patented foldaway backrests and insulated storage boxes underneath. The optional casting platform insert doubles as a cushioned sun pad or a table, making it versatile for diving trips.

Boston Whaler 280 Outrage

The Boston Whaler 280 Outrage offers a legendary, unsinkable design, ensuring safety for your diving adventures. It provides twin helm seats, a three-sided tempered glass windshield, and an integral hardtop for comfort. There is ample storage space underneath the forward console lounge. The transom bench seat folds down for fishing, and the bow seating can be converted into a forward casting platform. With up to 800 HP, this boat can get you to your dive spots quickly.

What type of boat is good for scuba diving?

When it comes to choosing a boat for scuba diving, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, deck space is crucial. Look for boats with open decks, such as those geared towards fishing, including center-consoles, walkarounds, work boats, and pilot house models. Fishing features like transom and hullside doors can also double as access points to enter and exit the water.

Additionally, you'll want to ensure there is ample storage space for all your diving gear and accessories. A rack system to hold air tanks is ideal, and if it's not available from the manufacturer, you may be able to request a custom installation.

Other features that can enhance your diving experience include a freshwater shower system, a heater in the cabin, and flip-up and fold-down seating options. If you're planning on longer trips, consider boats with amenities like restrooms, shaded seating areas, and even a galley with a sink, refrigerator, and stove.

Some specific models that are worth considering include the Parker 2820 XLD Sport Cabin, Farallon 2600 Walkaround, World Cat 230CC Center Console, Everglades 295 Center Console, and Interpid 300 Center Console. These boats offer a range of features that make them suitable for scuba diving, such as spacious decks, storage options, and easy water access.

Remember to prioritize safety and always adhere to dive boat safety protocols when embarking on your scuba diving adventures.

What size of boat is good for scuba diving?

When it comes to choosing a boat for scuba diving, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, let's address the question of boat size. The size of the boat will depend on several variables, including the number of divers, the amount of gear, the distance travelled, and the desired level of comfort.

A good rule of thumb is to ensure there is ample deck space for divers to move around comfortably and store their gear. This is particularly important when divers need to gear up and prepare for their dive. Additionally, having a spacious deck allows for easier entry and exit points, which is crucial for safe and efficient diving operations.

In terms of specific boat sizes, a range of options can accommodate scuba diving needs. Smaller boats, such as rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) or inflatable vessels, can be suitable for a small group of divers. For example, a 12-foot inflatable boat can work well for two divers with gear, but may struggle with additional passengers. On the other hand, a 24-foot boat might be more comfortable and stable for a similar group size, especially in heavier swells.

For larger groups or longer journeys, consider a boat in the 27-foot range, such as the World Cat 230CC Center Console, which offers ample deck space and unique features like a swim ladder mounted on the transom. Even larger boats, such as the Parker 2820 XLD Sport Cabin, measuring 28 feet long, provide increased length and beam width, making them ideal for open water wreck dives.

When choosing a boat size, it's important to consider the trade-off between comfort and portability. Smaller boats may be more easily transported and manoeuvrable, while larger boats offer more space and amenities. Additionally, the hull shape is an important consideration, as it affects the stability of the vessel when stationary. Planing hulls, like those found on RHIBs, are designed for stability and performance, while displacement hulls are more commonly found on larger vessels.

In conclusion, when selecting a boat for scuba diving, focus on finding a vessel that comfortably accommodates your group size, provides ample deck space for gear and movement, and offers safe and efficient entry and exit points. Remember to consider the trade-offs between boat size, comfort, and portability to ensure you choose the right boat for your scuba diving needs.

What are some other considerations when choosing a boat for scuba diving?

When choosing a boat for scuba diving, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some key factors to think about:

Boat Size and Capacity

The size of the boat should accommodate the number of divers comfortably and allow for the secure storage of diving gear. A spacious deck area is crucial for divers to move around, prepare for dives, and store their equipment.

Dive Trip Types

Consider the type of dive trips you plan to undertake. Rigid-hulled boats are usually smaller and better suited for shorter day trips with fewer divers. Day trip dive boats serve as a base for multiple dives throughout the day, allowing divers to relax and prepare their gear between dives. Liveaboard dive boats, on the other hand, offer a more immersive experience, accommodating divers for multiple days or even weeks, taking them to more distant and secluded dive sites.

Amenities and Features

Amenities such as restrooms, freshwater showers, shaded seating areas, and air-conditioned indoor spaces can significantly enhance the comfort and convenience of divers, especially on longer trips. Additionally, features like dive platforms, easy entry and exit points, sturdy handrails, and grab bars improve safety and accessibility.

Safety and Emergency Equipment

Safety is a top priority when scuba diving. Ensure the boat has essential safety equipment, including life jackets, first aid kits, emergency signaling devices, and a well-maintained engine and hull. Adherence to safety protocols and proper training for the crew are also crucial.

Engine and Fuel Efficiency

Consider the condition and fuel efficiency of the engine, especially when looking at used boats. Fuel efficiency impacts the overall operating costs of the boat. Additionally, understand the different types of engines and how they affect diver safety, such as the placement of propellers in relation to boarding and disembarking points.

Electronic and Navigational Features

Modern electronic and navigational features can enhance the diving experience and improve safety. Consider features such as 3D depth sounders, interactive tide charts, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), VHF radio, and GPS devices.

Budget and Condition

Factor in your budget and the condition of the boat. Decide whether you prefer a new or used boat, considering the cost and the boat's maintenance history. Research the reputation and customer reviews of dealers or private sellers to make an informed decision.

Itinerary and Destinations

The choice of boat may also depend on the diving destinations and the itinerary. Consider the distance to the dive sites and the sea conditions, such as visibility, depth, and currents. Some boats may be more suitable for specific locations or conditions, offering a safer and more enjoyable experience.

In summary, choosing the right boat for scuba diving involves considering factors such as size, capacity, amenities, safety features, engine specifications, electronic capabilities, budget, and the intended diving destinations. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can select a boat that aligns with your specific needs and ensures memorable and safe diving adventures.

Frequently asked questions