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Learning Objective

By the end of this topic, you should be able to answer these question:

As you visit different dive destinations around the world, you’ll find that each region’s dive boats have somewhat differing protocols to follow when you come aboard. Since these protocols vary depending upon the type of boat, regional logistics, number of passengers and other differences between vessels, it is important that you always listen carefully to the briefing prior to diving. Nonetheless, the procedures you generally follow are outlined below.

As a rule of thumb, plan to arrive at the dive boat at least a half an hour prior to departure – or earlier if so requested by the crew. Make sure the crew’s ready for you to board (they may still be preparing and need you to stay on the dock), and stow your gear according to their directions. This is important because there may be specific areas that need to be kept clear for safety or access, and certain areas may not be appropriate for lead or cylinders.

Generally, you’ll stow personal items that you want to keep dry somewhere forward under cover. It’s best to expect anything left on deck to get wet. The smaller the boat and the rougher the conditions, the more likely this is true. For small boats like inflatables that may not have reliably dry areas, a dry bag is a good option.

On some boats, you use any filled cylinder available, on some you bring your own, and on yet others, you’ll put your name on a specific cylinder. Follow the crew’s direction, and again, be sure the cylinder is well secured in its rack, with the retaining bungee (if there is one) in place.

The captain, crew or divemaster will usually conduct a predeparture briefing, which may be separate from or include the predive briefing (typically depending upon how long the ride is to the site). Predeparture briefings and predive briefings are for your safety as well as enjoyment, so stop what you’re doing and pay attention (besides, this is just common courtesy).

The pre-departure briefing covers where to find safety equipment (PFDs, first aid, etc.) and a roll call from the roster to be sure it lists everyone aboard. Since the crew uses the roster to account for everyone, never answer for someone else, even if you believe that person is aboard. If you don’t hear your name called, be sure to alert the divemaster/crew.

The pre-departure and/or predive briefing provides a boat dive area orientation so you have a problem-free boat dive. It typically includes the following four topics, among others:

This covers things like where the head and showers are, food concessions or coolers, where to stow things you want to stay dry or safe, where to find safety equipment and other information that makes your stay on the boat more enjoyable. You may also learn about areas that are off limits (such as an engine compartment) or restricted (such as staying out of the bunk area while wearing a wet exposure suit). If it’s not obvious, the crew will recommend where to gear up.

If the information’s available (it isn’t always), the divemaster will brief you on the bottom type and topography to expect, the depth range, current speed and direction (if present), areas you may want to avoid and areas you may specifically want to be sure you see (where the good stuff is).

As necessary, the divemaster may suggest a dive plan and techniques and locations for entering and exiting the water. The divemaster may also suggest minimum experience/training for the dive, for options within the dive.

Especially on open charters (anyone can sign on for a dive), the crew usually checks to be sure everyone has a buddy. If someone doesn’t have a buddy, the divemaster may help unbuddied divers connect so they can find someone to dive with. With a closed boat (entire boat booked by a dive center or other group), buddy teams may be expected to be handled within the group.

It’s typical to recommend that those inexperienced with the area try to dive with someone who is. The briefing may also review buddy team procedures, especially if there are any protocols unique to the area.

Although much of this typically reviews what you already know as a certified diver, it’s important to listen because it will also cover the specifics the crew uses with respect to them.

During the briefing, the crew may review hand signals, especially if the divemaster will be leading a tour. It’s typical to be reminded to always signal “okay” when you surface, and you may hear about recall procedures, the role of supervisory personnel, what to do in an emergency, out-of-air procedures and when to exit. An experienced divemaster won’t reteach what you already know, but rather apply your basic diving knowledge to the specific circumstances of the dive.

After the briefing, you and your buddy plan your dive based upon the information in the briefing, as well as your own training, personal limits and experience you have with the local environment. Be sure to check your dive computer and the RDP no stop limits.

One is to inflate the BCDs and put your scuba units over the side on a line. This frees the deck for getting into your exposure suit, etc. Then, enter the water and put your kit on at the surface. Alternatively, you can pull them back aboard, gear up and back roll in.

Stand up carefully (if you forgot to release the bungee, this is when you find out and sheepishly ask someone to unhook it), helping and being helped by your buddy. Walk back to the entry area, complete your predive check (whatever you couldn’t do while seated), and partially inflate your BCD. Put your fins on last, just before you enter the water, with your buddy helping steady you. Avoid walking on deck with fins on, because you can easily lose your balance and fall.

In some areas, large dive boats don’t have seats in front of the cylinder racks. If this is the case, you and your buddy will lift and hold each other’s scuba units so you kit up and perform your predive safety checks standing.

It’s also important to be flying an appropriate dive flag in accordance with the regulations for the area (as discussed earlier).

Although as a diver you want to be sure to fly a dive flag for the safety benefits, it is the captain’s legal responsibility.

Finally, when planning to dive from a private boat, consider enrolling in your local boating class and remember to pay special attention to the basic guidelines to boating safety outlined in this course.

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