Following these unwritten rules ensures a smooth, enjoyable, and respectful experience for everyone on board, from crew to fellow divers. This reflects common practices as of March 15, 2025.
Proper Dive Boat Etiquette for Scuba Divers
Dive boats are shared spaces where preparation, safety, and camaraderie come together. Good etiquette keeps the trip pleasant, efficient, and safe for all. Whether it’s your first boat dive or you’re a seasoned diver, here’s how to be a considerate dive boat guest.
Before Boarding
1. Arrive Prepared
- Timing: Be punctual—arrive 15–30 minutes early as instructed by the operator. Late arrivals delay everyone.
- Gear: Pack your equipment in an organized dive bag, pre-assembled where possible (e.g., regulator on tank if allowed). Label your gear to avoid mix-ups.
- Paperwork: Bring your certification card, logbook, and any required forms (e.g., medical waivers) filled out in advance.
2. Check In
- Crew Interaction: Greet the captain and crew politely. Confirm your spot, pay any fees, and ask where to stow your gear.
- Briefing: Listen attentively to the boat and dive briefing—ask questions if unclear, but don’t interrupt unnecessarily.
3. Respect Space
- Personal Items: Keep non-dive belongings (e.g., dry bags, towels) compact and out of high-traffic areas.
- Gear Setup: Claim your spot only after crew instructions—don’t sprawl across multiple stations unless it’s a small group.
On the Boat
1. Gear Handling
- Setup: Assemble your gear quietly and efficiently. Avoid banging tanks or dropping weights—noise and damage annoy others.
- Space Sharing: Keep hoses, fins, and bags contained. Don’t encroach on neighbors’ areas unless invited.
- Tank Security: Secure your tank to the boat’s rack or holder immediately to prevent tipping in rough seas.
2. Respect the Crew and Boat
- Follow Rules: Adhere to boat policies (e.g., no smoking, no food in certain areas). If unsure, ask the crew.
- Cleanliness: Don’t leave trash, spit, or gear debris around. Use designated bins or ask where to dispose of waste.
- Assistance: Offer to help with tasks (e.g., passing lines to the dock) if you’re able, but don’t interfere with crew duties.
3. Social Etiquette
- Noise: Keep conversations at a reasonable volume—others may be resting or focusing.
- Personal Space: Avoid leaning on or crowding others, especially in tight quarters.
- Seasickness: If prone, take medication beforehand and sit near the stern or center. Use a bag or the leeward rail if sick—never near gear.
Pre-Dive Preparation
1. Be Dive-Ready
- Timing: Gear up when instructed, not too early (blocking access) or too late (delaying the group).
- Buddy Check: Perform a thorough pre-dive check (BWRAF: BCD, Weights, Releases, Air, Fins) with your buddy quietly and out of the way.
- Listen Up: Pay attention to the dive master’s site briefing—know entry/exit points, signals, and emergency procedures.
2. Entry Etiquette
- Queue Respectfully: Line up as directed—don’t cut ahead unless asked.
- Clear the Area: After entering (e.g., giant stride or back roll), swim clear of the splash zone immediately so others can follow.
- Fins On: Don fins at the entry point, not mid-deck, to avoid tripping hazards.
During the Dive
1. Surface Conduct
- Signals: Give the “OK” signal to the boat crew after entry to confirm you’re safe.
- Stay Close: Remain near the boat or mooring line unless descending with your group—don’t drift off solo.
2. Post-Dive Return
- Approach Carefully: Wait for clearance to board—don’t crowd the ladder or swim under the boat.
- Hand Up Gear: Pass fins, weights, or BCD/tank to the crew if requested, but don’t toss them haphazardly.
- Exit Promptly: Climb the ladder and move aside quickly—others may be cold or low on air.
After the Dive
1. Gear Management
- Break Down: Disassemble and rinse gear (if freshwater is provided) without splashing others. Stow it neatly.
- Tank Etiquette: Return rental tanks to the fill station or designated spot—don’t leave them loose.
2. Gratitude
- Thank the Crew: A simple “thanks” or tip (if customary, e.g., 10–15% of the trip cost) shows appreciation for their work.
- Feedback: Share constructive comments privately with the captain or dive master, not loudly on deck.
3. Departure
- Check Belongings: Double-check you’ve got all your gear before leaving—lost items burden the crew.
- Leave Clean: Take your trash and personal items with you—don’t abandon wet towels or wrappers.
General Tips
- Be Flexible: Boats vary—small skiffs differ from liveaboards. Adapt to the setup and crew’s guidance.
- Communicate: Inform the crew of special needs (e.g., seasickness, mobility issues) beforehand.
- Stay Calm: Rough seas or delays happen—keep a positive attitude to boost group morale.
Common Faux Pas to Avoid
- Gear Hogging: Don’t monopolize benches or rinse tanks—share the space.
- Over-Talking: Skip loud dive stories during briefings or when others are prepping.
- Ignoring Safety: Don’t bypass crew instructions (e.g., entering early)—it risks everyone.
Proper dive boat etiquette makes the day enjoyable for divers, crew, and operators alike. Respect the boat as a shared workspace, follow the lead of the crew, and dive with consideration. Got a specific boat scenario in mind? Let me know, and I’ll tailor the advice!
Motus Aquaticus 
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