Ok you here in warm Caribbean and it time to dive.  The dive boat is leaving at 8AM and I am at the dive shop at 7:30 filling out the paper work.  As I board the boat it’s important to me to have good boat etiquette.  I always look around to see the wide variety of experienced divers and what they are doing as they come aboard.  This process also helps me find a buddy(s) who I might feel comfortable diving with. GOOD BOAT ETIQUETTE is something we all need to consider.  Below are some things to consider whenever you are on a dive boat.

Board when told by the crew so you all can leave on time.  Select your spot and start getting the equipment in order.  I assemble my gear, and then stow any additional baggage under the seat, out-of-way of other divers.    Be ready to listen to the divemaster’s briefing.  Discuss your plan with your buddy and PLAN YOUR DIVE AND DIVE YOUR PLAN.  Be ready to enter the water when you reach the dive site.  I check my buddy’s equipment and air and have them check my equipment and air.  In the water, make sure you and your buddy descend together.  Keep in sight of each other.  At the end of the dive wait your turn to board on the towline.  Keep your regulator in your mouth.  I take my fins off (put the straps over my arms) right before it is my turn to go up the ladder.  On board, I make every effort to avoid getting other divers gear wet or mixed up.  Being a good diver is also being considerate of the other divers.