I second the above opinions about the inflatable boat as a beach dive vessel. To my knowledge the best inflatable boats for diving are made of Hypalon. $$$ I wouldn't trust any other material.
I have a 10' Achilles inflatable boat and a 9.6 hp outboard for it. I can fit this boat in the back of my truck (inflated). I have a cart for it to make it easier to get the boat, fuel tank, and outboard to the water.
It makes a great dive platform once you get it to the water but getting it and your dive gear to the water kicks your butt.
Ocean Kayak has a new solo S.O.T. kayak called the "Side Kick" I've not tried one yet but it looks to be an excellent design for tank diving. Rated capacity is 300 to 350 lbs. It has lots of secondary displacement positioned well off center to help keep it stable. The bow is turned up to help it rise up over swells. Their web site has pictures and information.
I think Mrs Fish and I may replace our inflatable boat with a couple of Side Kicks so we have the strength left to fight off the killer manatees.
