Kayak diving (diving from kayaks) is becoming more popular around the world but here in the UK it is still in it's infancy. Mention kayak diving to most people and they look at you as though you are mad, especially if they are divers themselves. Dive boats and RIB's certainly have their place (we've got one) but there are many advantages to diving from a kayak. You have to be organised with regard to kitting up etc. but it doesn't take long to adapt. You can either paddle out to an island, moor up or drag the kayaks ashore for a shore dive, or use an anchor for diving offshore.

Conventional shore diving can be limiting and frustrating because there are many excellent dives that are just offshore, on reefs, islands, wrecks and at the base of cliffs that can only be reached by boat. Most of these can be reached on a Kayak but usually a small dive boat like a RIB or inflatable is used but all too often launch sites can be awkward, restricted or a long way off.

The Benefits of diving from a Kayak:
Transport:
They are easy to transport, car toppable on virtually any car with roof bars and with uprights you can carry up to three boats on one vehicle. No towing and usually no additional cost on ferries.

Cost:
They cost far less than a RIB or conventional dive boat. Good sit-on-tops start at around £400 to £425.

Fewer Restrictions:
You can launch from virtually anywhere with few restrictions, and often from public slipways without charge.

Launch Sites:
You can normally launch closer to dive sites.
You will often arrive at the dive site quicker than if you were using a RIB.
You can get into places that could be difficult with a large boat.
You can get much closer to wild life and it's less likely to be frightened off.
Almost zero running and maintainance costs.

The Drawbacks of diving from a Kayak:
It is more weather dependant and offshore winds can be dangerous.
Range is limited to a few miles.