Scuba Cruise Dive Boat Etiquette

Scuba Cruise Boat Dives




Boat dives are a great way to bond with your fellow Scuba Cruisers, but along with it comes an unspoken code of conduct. So whether you’re a rookie diver or a seasoned pro it’s good to know the do’s and don’ts of dive boat etiquette to preserve order and just get along when diving in groups.

1. Never keep the boat waiting.

Always get to the meeting area on the ship early so we can leave as soon as the ship is cleared by local authorities. Once we hook up with the dive operator on the first day, be ready to show your C-Card and to fill out any extra waiver forms requested by the dive operator.

2. Pack as compact as your can.

Use a small roller gear bag or backpack and not a massive piece of luggage to transport your gear. Be prepared to leave your dive bag behind in the dive shop if the dive boat is small. It's also possible that the boat captain will request that you leave your flip-flops or shoes behind; please leave your designer sandals on the ship! When you get on the boat, set up your dive gear and store your weight belt, fins and mask under your seat. Remember, you won't be alone and so we ask that you be considerate about space which is a valuable commodity on dive boats.

3. Check and assemble your dive gear on the way to the dive site.

Keep all your scuba equipment and gear centralized in one place on the dive boat. Work from your Scuba gear bag and don’t spread all your gear and equipment in a pile on the deck floor for someone to trip over. Assemble and check all your gear well before you reach the dive site and not once you arrive.The whole idea is to be ready to jump in the water once the boat stops at the dive site. Getting ready before you have to dive in also helps if there is a problem with your gear or if something has to be changed without holding up the others waiting their chance to jump in.

4. Pay attention to the dive briefing

Please listen to the dive master and his instructions; keep your mouth shut and your ears open during the brief. Chit-chatting while someone is talking is not only rude but makes you look inexperienced!

5. When it’s your turn, be quick.

When you get in line for the gate you better be ready. Don’t dilly-dally at the gate. While you’re zipping up your wetsuit, opening your Scuba tank valves, adjusting straps and what not, you’re blocking the gate for someone who was smart enough to get all geared up while on the bench. Some dive masters don’t want you to put your fins on at the bench; some do.

6. During the dive

Watch your buoyancy, dive computer and your depth. If you know you run out of air faster than most people, remember to swim above the group. Stay with your buddy and remember, to not go up and down a lot. Stay with the dive group and when the dive master calls your attention to something, remember to give divers with cameras a wide berth.

Most of the dives on this trip will be deep, often in current so staying close to the dive group will be essential. All dives will be no-decompression dives, but we will be making the normal safety stop. A reliable dive watch is recommended.

7. When you come up

When the dive is over, you must wait your turn to get back onto the dive boat. You may be asked to remove your weights and BC before you get back onto the dive boat or you will be asked to get on geared up. Move quickly over to the place where dive boat personnel want you to go. This may not be where you were suited up. While divers are still climbing onto the dive boat, stay seated or move to the back of the boat - you can get your fins later. Once everyone is back on the dive boat, locate the rest of your gear and place your fins and weight belt under your seat.

8. Surface Interval Time

Some dive boats will have water, soda and juice as well as snacks while others will only offer you water - no idea what's normal for Top Dive. Please pay close attention to your dive computer; dive masters usually ask how everyone is doing - he's not asking how you you are enjoying the dive so far! What he really wants to know is what your dive computer says - are you in the green?

9. The Second Dive

Second dives are usually shallower than the first, but don't be surprised if we go down to 70 or 80 feet. Please pay close attention to your dive computer and watch your depth. If you have to, swim above the group.

10. Heading back to the ship

On the way back, pack up your gear and make sure you have everything! Double check! WARNING: Every scuba cruise, someone leaves something behind - a prescription mask, a wetsuit, flip-flops, jewelry, tee shirt, a brush, sunglasses, etc. Though you will notice that Mike will usually go back onto the dive boat and look around, please don't head back to the ship until you are sure you have everything - sometimes stuff is left on land! Everyday we are in a new port of call; you'll probably need what you leave behind. So save yourself the hassle! Be alert!


Mike and I usually head back to the ship after diving; if you want to be dropped off in town, let the driver know. You are responsible for yourself! Don't get lost and please make it back before the captain pulls up the gangway! Wet scuba gear is heavy - you might want to go back to the ship and drop off your gear first.