The Best Cars for Scuba Divers
The Best Cars for Scuba Divers: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Dive Vehicle
For scuba diving enthusiasts, the adventure doesn’t end when you resurface—it continues with transporting your gear, ensuring it stays safe and dry, and finding a vehicle that can handle the demands of dive trips. Whether you’re heading to a local dive site or embarking on a cross-country road trip to explore new underwater worlds, the right car can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best cars for scuba divers, considering factors like storage space, fuel efficiency, durability, and off-road capability. From rugged SUVs to versatile hatchbacks, we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle to support your underwater adventures.
Key Features to Look for in a Dive Vehicle
Before diving into specific car recommendations, let’s outline the essential qualities that make a vehicle ideal for scuba divers:
- Ample Cargo Space – You’ll need room for tanks, BCDs, wetsuits, fins, and other gear. A spacious trunk, foldable rear seats, or roof racks are crucial.
- Water-Resistant or Easy-to-Clean Interior – Saltwater, sand, and wet gear can wreak havoc on upholstery. Rubberized flooring or waterproof seat covers are a plus.
- Towing Capacity (for Boat Divers) – If you own a dive boat or trailer, a vehicle with strong towing capabilities is a must.
- Fuel Efficiency – Long drives to dive spots mean you’ll want a car that doesn’t guzzle gas.
- Off-Road Capability – Some dive sites require traversing rough terrain, so all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) can be beneficial.
- Durability & Reliability – The last thing you want is a breakdown on the way to a dive trip.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore the best vehicles for scuba divers.
Top Cars for Scuba Divers
1. Subaru Outback – The All-Around Dive Adventure Wagon
Why It’s Great:
- Spacious Interior & Roof Rack: The Outback has a generous cargo area (32.5 cu. ft. behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.7 cu. ft. when folded). The roof rails are perfect for securing dive gear.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Handles sandy beaches, muddy roads, and rocky coastal paths with ease.
- Durable & Water-Resistant: Available with rubberized floor mats and easy-to-clean upholstery.
- Great Fuel Economy: Around 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway, making it efficient for long trips.
Best For: Divers who need a reliable, all-terrain vehicle with plenty of storage.
2. Toyota 4Runner – The Rugged Off-Road Dive Machine
Why It’s Great:
- Exceptional Cargo Space: 47.2 cu. ft. behind the second row, up to 89.7 cu. ft. with seats down.
- 4WD Capability: Perfect for remote dive locations with rough terrain.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs, ideal for boat owners.
- Durable Build: Built to withstand harsh conditions, including saltwater exposure.
Best For: Serious divers who frequent off-the-beaten-path dive sites or need to tow a boat.
3. Honda CR-V – The Efficient & Practical Dive SUV
Why It’s Great:
- Smart Cargo Design: 39.2 cu. ft. behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.8 cu. ft.
- Great Fuel Efficiency: 28 MPG city / 34 MPG highway—ideal for budget-conscious divers.
- Honda’s Reliability: Known for longevity and low maintenance costs.
- Optional AWD: Provides extra traction for slippery boat ramps.
Best For: Divers who want a fuel-efficient, practical SUV without sacrificing space.
4. Jeep Wrangler – The Ultimate Beach & Off-Road Dive Vehicle
Why It’s Great:
- Removable Doors & Roof: Easy to air out after a salty, sandy dive day.
- Exceptional Off-Roading: 4WD, high ground clearance, and rugged tires make it perfect for beach driving.
- Customizable Storage: Roof racks, hitch-mounted cargo carriers, and aftermarket storage solutions.
Best For: Divers who love extreme off-roading or frequently drive on beaches.
5. Ford Transit Connect – The Gear-Hauling Dive Van
Why It’s Great:
- Massive Cargo Space: Up to 116 cu. ft. with seats removed—perfect for multiple divers’ gear.
- Sliding Doors: Easy loading and unloading in tight parking spots.
- Commercial-Grade Durability: Built to handle heavy use.
Best For: Dive instructors, dive clubs, or divers who carry a lot of equipment.
Honorable Mentions
- Volkswagen Golf SportWagen – A compact yet spacious option for divers who prefer a car-like drive.
- Toyota Tacoma – A pickup truck with excellent towing and off-road capabilities.
- Tesla Model Y – For eco-conscious divers (if charging stations are available near dive sites).
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Perfect Dive Vehicle
The best car for scuba diving depends on your specific needs—whether it’s fuel efficiency, ruggedness, or sheer storage space. If you frequently drive on rough terrain, a 4Runner or Wrangler might be ideal. If you prioritize efficiency and practicality, the CR-V or Outback are excellent choices. And if you haul tons of gear, the Transit Connect is unbeatable.
No matter which vehicle you choose, ensure it enhances your dive trips rather than complicating them. Happy diving—and safe travels!
Would you add any other vehicles to this list? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🚗🌊🤿
