Abstract: An underwater viewing platform is described which has a stern mounted electric drive motor whose direction and speed may by varied by forward mounted controls located adjacent the prone-lying operator's hands near a large forward mounted viewing window. A shade cowl arches up over the viewing window and has a U-shaped stern-facing, padded opening for receiving the operator's head. With the operator's head in place, the large viewing window is substantially shaded from overhead sunlight and has a large viewing angle and field of view. The window has a lens for providing the desired degree of magnification or demagnification. Bottom illumination is provided by an underwater light for night time use. Navigation and battery status and drain instruments are conveniently mounted within or on the shade cowl. Various design features reduce operator fatigue and extend useful range and endurance. End useful range and endurance.