Diving Boats built in Mauritius
For years Mauritius dive centres have been unable to reach the Northern Islands where the more amazing dive sites lie. The boats available have been small fishing pirogues, unstable, unreliable and cramped. Or adapted cabin cruisers, with no safe stowage for tanks.
On 8 September, at the legendary Grand Bay Yacht Club Anders Heegaard, the PADI Pro Regional Manager for the Indian Ocean revealed the name of the prototype for the series of diving boats to be built in Mauritius in an ISO 9001 registered factory, and ultimately to the ISO 9001:2017 standard.
Sleek, with a sharp shallow keel the boat is reassuringly stable in the water, which alleviates sea sickness. Standing on the deck is like standing on a rock. The boat planes through the water and waves with panache, and it is roomy and comfortable. Powered by two massive 3 litre Mercury engines, it’s a fast as a fishing boat and as stable as a catamaran.
A strong rigid canopy covers the boat and handholds in the roof allow divers to move around in safety. Comfortable padded seating specially designed for diving allows complete comfort reaching the diving destination.
Tanks are stowed in stainless steel tank racks in the kit-up area at the back, where divers can enter the water by backward roll, by giant stride or by seated entry. This makes it possible for disabled divers to become part of the group with confidence.
After the dive re-entry can be up the ladder, or onto the diving platform. Staff love it, because tank management is a breeze, and gear stowage is beneath the seats. You can take you book on board and stow it in the dry storage cubby behind the seat.
With the 12 tank racks at the back and a deep hold holding an additional 18 tanks, Chenolia allows for 3 tank dive safaris to the distant Islands in safety and at speed.
This is the first of many diving boats to be built in Mauritius specifically for the diving industry, and the prototype for the ISO standard for diving boats. With PADI going for an ISO standard for its diving centres, many of the safety concerns and the equipment failure problems that can spoil a great diving holiday have been taken out of the equation.
Words and Pics: Jill Holloway
Copyright: Ocean Spirit
