Let's face it, scuba diving requires A LOT of gear. Wetsuit, BCD, weights, masks, fins, snorkels, boots, gloves, regulators with lots of hoses hanging off of it, sometimes hoods, and bags carry it all. On top of that, you need other survival items like towels, sunglasses, sunscreen, water (lots of water), snacks, your phone, camera, and more bags. By the time you've boarded the boat, it looks like you've moved in and will be camped out there for the next month. The following steps will ensure that you don't become "that guy" on your next dive trip.
1Step One of Dive Boat Etiquette: Manage Your Stuff!
There's nothing the dive boat crew, captain, and other divers, for that matter, dislike more than a diver whose gear takes up too much space. The key to mastering your gear is to assemble it as soon as you board the boat. Don't get busy socializing, get straight to work!
- Claim a tank
- Assemble all your gear
- Attach your mask to your BC (or put it in the rinse bucket)
- Put your weights into your BC
- Slide your empty bag directly under your set-up
- Lay your fins on top along with your wetsuit if it's too hot to put it on right away.
This will keep your gear organized and out-of-the-way. Now, find a spot toward the front of the boat above the cabin to store your dry bag and keep all contents inside of the bag at all times unless you have it out and are using it.
2Step Two of Dive Boat Etiquette: Listen!
I know this may be your 1000th time out on a boat but when the Captain speaks, please listen! It's just common courtesy. Do not whisper to your friend and continue talking to your neighbor while the Captain is talking. It's just rude, and there may be new boat divers on board who don't know the safety procedures when you're out at sea. Do the same for the Divemaster when they are giving the dive briefing; listening is respectful. Besides, there may be divers on board who may need information about the site or how to get back on the boat.
3Step Three of Dive Boat Etiquette: Don't Smoke!
We know it is your choice to smoke, but this one is pretty self-explanatory. Smoking in the proximity of others who don't smoke is inconsiderate, especially if those on board are borderline seasick. However, if you absolutely cannot wait till the boat docks to have that smoke, please only smoke where the Captain designates.
4Step Four of Dive Boat Etiquette: How to Handle Seasickness
At some point, it's bound to happen even to the most sea worthy of us; when a 1-2 foot swell forecast turns into 3-4 foot seas. And when it does, just remember to "swallow your pride and puke to the side." When the time comes, make your way to the leeward side of the boat (that's downwind for all you landlubbers) and as far to the back as you can, then let the chunks fly. Try your best not to let it come up on the boat deck or in a trash can, no one wants that sticking around for the whole boat trip.
5Step Five of Dive Boat Etiquette: Be On Time!
This pertains to all aspects of your dive boat trip. DO NOT be late boarding the boat. In fact, don't even show up "on time"; arrive at the boat early. It sets a negative tone when the trip leaves late. Being early gives you plenty of time to set up your gear (see step one) and relax. Also, be on time entering and exiting the water. If you're not ready when the gates open to dive, hurry up! Also, listen when the Divemaster says to be back at a certain time. When you are late returning from your dive it agitates other divers and stresses out the boat crew. Being late is just plain rude.
6Step Six of Dive Boat Etiquette: Tip Your Crew!
The last step in proper boat etiquette is not to leave without thanking and tipping your crew. Trust me when I say that your divemaster does not do this job to get rich....they do it because they love it. But they also need to make a living, so please tip them accordingly. Tipping customs differ from region to region so check what is customary before you go.
If you follow these six simple rules for dive boat etiquette, you, and the other divers, will have more diving fun!
