D.I.R. España

It has been a very busy couple of weeks but Halcyon was glad to release the information about the HDV units. Yes, we have been working with Suex for the past 3 years on several prototype exploration units to compliment the numerous Gavins we already own. I expect the magnum Gavin to remain in the WKPP exploration plans for many years to come and yes, we still have a good relationship with George Irvine and he goes above and beyond to support the WKPP with magnums, parts, service and advice. The Suex exploration prototypes (that we expect to include in the next round of exploration dives) are 84ah lithium units with several unique features including a specially tuned motor that draws 20amps with a full RB80 exploration rig and a large payload of tanks and tow scooters. We have 4 of these limited production exploration units that we plan to work into the mix of 10+ magnum Gavin scooters if it eventually stops raining in north Florida and we can begin diving again. However, a 300min, 10 inch diameter, long, heavy, $12,000 exploration scooter designed for long rides in caves is not what most people are looking for in a dive vehicle so we focused this past year on developing and delivering a less complex recreational (HDV-R14) and more advanced technical (HDV-T16) vehicle with added features.

Despite similarities, we worked with Suex to incorporate a number of unique features into both units including a number of features that are considered add-ons and some that are not available on any stock Suex model. To name a few, the recreational HDV-14 is shorter, lighter, has a deeper rating and comes standard with NiMh batteries and a hi/lo speed option. The HDV-16 has a deeper rated aluminum body, larger NiMh battery pack and comes standard with a custom handle, speed control, emergency bypass, removable prop, etc. Both scooters have 2 year warranties and include chargers and batteries when shipped. Both HDV's are latchless designs, use oil filled shaft seals, use brush motors and have durable shrouds and legs capable of withstanding a lot of abuse. We took the time to consider lithium batteries and brushless motor options for the HDV-16 but decided the added expense and complexity did not translate into a meaningful performance advantage. The HDV-16 is a great all around technical scooter for caves, wrecks, multiple stages, boats, cenotes and weighing less than 50lbs is ideal for easy handling in and out of the water. The batteries in both units can be easily removed in less than 30 seconds, both are balanced for salt out of the box and can be balanced for fresh water in less than 60 seconds. We believe both units appeal to a different customer and that the owners will be extremely pleased with their decision once they get them in the water. Halcyon expects to have them ready for shipment mid-June. This was not a quick decision on the part of Halcyon to partner with Suex for these units. The Suex guys have been in the business for more than 10 years, Fenu is an active diver, Marco is an engineer, they are passionate about quality, they test their products extensively and their attention to detail is excellent. Bottom line: the right tool for the job and a worldwide Halcyon network to back it up. Thank you for the support and interest and I will do my best to make more information available as we get closer to releasing the units. Attached are a few personal images of the prototype 84ah exploration units. Unfortunately, these are not for sale but we are working on a more practical exploration scooter for the future.