Dive boats are busy, wet, and full of heavy gear. Divers climb ladders, tanks roll and bump, and everything gets soaked in salt water. Graphics can make a dive operation look professional, but they need to be placed where daily operations won't destroy them.
Where damage happens#
On dive boats, the toughest areas include:
- Around dive ladders and entry points
- Tank racks and the deck near them
- Gunwales where divers sit and roll in
- Swim platforms
- Areas where gear is passed up and down
Avoid placing graphics in these spots.
Better places for graphics#
- Upper hull sides, away from ladders
- The bow
- Cabin sides and wheelhouse
- The upper transom, away from the platform
Branding in these areas is visible at the dock and from other boats.
Walking surfaces#
Dive boats need excellent grip, especially on wet decks and platforms. Keep standard film off walking areas. Our walking surfaces guide explains why.
Salt and rinsing#
Dive boats are covered in salt water all day. Rinse the hull and graphics with fresh water after each trip. Salt left to dry can dull graphics.
Design ideas#
Marine life themes suit dive operations well. Reef scenes, fish, turtles, and rays are popular. Our reef and underwater scene guide has ideas.
Branding that sells trips#
Include your business name and website so divers can find you after the trip. Clear branding also helps divers find the right boat at a busy dock.
Safety signage#
Dive boats may need signs for emergency equipment, oxygen, and first aid. Our safety signage guide covers planning.
Scheduling around the dive season#
Dive operators are often busiest in calmer months and quieter during windy seasons. Plan wrap work during slow periods so the boat is not out of service when bookings peak. Fresh graphics before the main season also make your boat look its best in the photos divers share online, which is free advertising for your operation.
Frequently asked questions#
Can I wrap a dive boat's swim platform?#
Not with standard film, as grip is essential. Use non-slip surfaces instead.
How often should a dive boat be rinsed?#
After every day of diving, ideally.
Do dive boats need special film?#
Durable marine film with overlaminate for prints works well. Placement matters more than product. See our custom boat wraps service.
