Shore diving can be a real bear, so anything that reduces the hassle is music to our swimmers' ears. Like the Diver's Platform. Providing what's in essence a floating workbench, this ruggedly built surface support system consists of a truck-size inner tube covered with diver-red fabric. This is lashed to an aluminum frame with a center storage tub and a circular handrail. There's a stainless ring underneath for attaching an anchor line, and a diver down flag is included. The basic Diver's Platform gives recreational divers a place to take surface breaks and stow their extra gear while also letting passing boats know they're in the water. For instructors, it offers a secure place to stack slates, extra weights, water bottles and other teaching essentials. Plus it provides up to six students with a comfortable hand-hold during class briefings. For tech-oriented divers, there's the Diver Tec Platform, which adds a beefed-up bottom plate with a series of welded half loops for hanging tanks or attaching tool bags. Platforms come in three sizes, measured by the diameter of the center tub: 12-, 14- and 15-inch. Prices: $295 to $599. Contact: www.thediversplatform.com. |
The Diver's Platform
