Dive Boat Etiquette: How to Behave on a Dive Boat

If you're heading out on a dive boat, there are some basic etiquette rules that you should follow. This will help make the trip more enjoyable for everyone on board, and ensure that you have the best possible diving experience.

1. Arrive on time.

Make sure to arrive at the boat dock at least 30 minutes before the departure time. This will give you plenty of time to get set up and will avoid holding up the trip.

2. Bring the correct equipment.

Make sure to pack all of your dive gear, including tanks, weights, BCDs and regulators. If you're travelling with any extra gear (e.g. cameras, lights), make sure to bring it with you as well.

3. Respect the crew.

The crew is there to help make your trip as enjoyable as possible, so be sure to show them respect. This includes following their instructions and abiding by the boat's Policies and Procedures.

4. Make sure to listen to the dive briefing.

Even if you have dove at the same site multiple times or have heard other dive briefings, it is important to listen to the dive briefing. Dive site conditions frequently change, with the seasons, currents, water temperature and marine life-changing. There are others on the dive boat who have never dove the site before and are actually listening to the dive master. So keep quiet and listen during the brief, not doing so is not only impolite but makes you look incredibly foolish.

5. Don’t make others wait.

Don't waste any time when it is your turn. While you're zipping up your wet suit, opening your scuba tank valves, and adjusting straps, you're blocking someone who was smart enough to get all geared early. If you cannot put your fins on standing up, be sure to position yourself at the back of the line so you do not stagger around like Donald Duck on the way to the entry point.