This afternoon, I hit the Florida Dive Show in West Palm Beach. While the FDS is an excellent opportunity for the general public to see lots of new dive gear in one place, I was a bit disappointed with the affair since I had just returned from DEMA: it was about 1/10th the size of that event. That said, there were a couple of different, interesting things on display. For example, one of the most interesting -- and most expensive -- items on display was a Patten Inflatable Boat.

Available in 15, 17, and 19 foot models, Patten's inflatable boats feature removable, stackable flooring and a zippered hatch that covers a through-the-floor dive hole. Rather than rolling over the side of the craft, divers simply drop through the floor and begin their dive. Can you say "James Bond"?Depending on the model you choose, this catamaran-styled boat is capable of holding between 6 and 10 passengers.

Featuring self-bailing drains, a fiberglass transom and keel, and bench seats with cushions, a Patten inflatable may be the bitchingest way to take your buddies diving. Just remember to replace the floorboards before heading off -- otherwise you might find that you're a passenger or two short!