Just as yacht builders and designers strive for innovation, so, too, do watertoy manufacturers. Scubacraft may be new to the international scene, but its ambitions are high, combining elements of a performance boat with those of a diving craft.
The Scubacraft SC3 is being marketed to a variety of water enthusiasts and water-related companies, such as hotels and scuba-diving resorts. But the team sees great potential among megayacht owners, too. Measuring 4.5 meters long (about 15 feet), the SC3 has a gross weight of 400 kilograms (about 882 pounds), which is comparable to that of many PWCs and less than some jetboat tenders. It can carry three people at a time, and thanks to a 160-hp inboard, it’s said to be capable of 50-mph speeds. Unusual for a watertoy, the SC3 also has twin hulls.
Of course, since it’s also intended for underwater exploration, the Scubacraft SC3’s real hook comes in its diving abilities. It has a manually activated dive control and an air supply, with reserve. Lithium batteries and electric thrusters power it once it dips below the surface. Maximum diving depth is 30 meters (98 feet), though it can be customized to go as deep as 50 meters (164 feet).
Since each SC3 – and a new design, the SC6, for six people – offers options such as an underwater filming platform and imaging sonar, Scubacraft will price the craft upon request.
To get a better sense of what it’s all about, here’s a video of the SC3 in action.
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