I am a sailor but sail boats are not good for scuba diving If you are doing big water, (Great Lakes or Oceans) you want two engines in a cruiser or (my preference) a single diesel in a trawler type boat (slow but stable and economical.) - inboards so you can install a swim platform on the transom - Most any boat will get you out there, but consider getting on and off the boat with full gear. The boat also should have a roomy deck area, head, and all CG safety equipment. If it is a trailerable boat, you can do the work yourself, if you have to store it at a marina or yard - some will not let you perform the work on their property (Bunch of BS to make $$ in my opinion) Hope this helps a little - Dive safe !!