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Boat Diving Practices
 1.
Sign up for trip destinations that are consistent with your ability and
level of certification. If necessary obtain additional dive training to
increase your comfort and confidence, it WILL make a big difference in the
way you feel.
2. Select a Coast Guard licensed boat that is fully equipped with the
required safety equipment recommended by your local dive center. They know
the difference!
3. Make sure you have your gear well marked and stowed in the assigned
locations. Work out of your gear bag and assist your dive buddy as
necessary. Its best to try your equipment out prior to departure to make
sure everything is functioning properly. Give us a call to schedule a
"dip" in our pool before you go. This will eliminate the hassle
and frustration of problems on the boat. Remember this is suppose to be
FUN!!!
4. Before departure always have your equipment serviced to make sure it is
in optimal condition. Nothing is any worse than getting on a trip
and have a leaking regulator or a BCD power inflator malfunctioning.
Between dives, keep dive gear in your bag to avoid lost or broken
equipment. Follow the recommended procedures for proper entry and exit
from the boat. In many instances it is best to don your fins just before
entry. It's difficult & dangerous to walk with fins on a rocking boat.
5. When possible always complete a buoyancy check to dive easily and
safely. Do not overweight yourself (which happens in many cases), only use
your BCD to fine tune your buoyancy during the dive. Breath control is
usually the best way to control your buoyancy.
6. Once you enter the water, move away from the entry area. Either snorkel
on the surface or begin your descent down the anchor line with your buddy
as directed by the crew. DO NOT use scuba just under the surface as you
cannot be seen by passing boats.
7. While slowly descending, take a compass bearing on the direction your
are heading from the boat. Plan your dive so you end with a reserve of air
and are able to return to the boat while still underwater. (As a rule of
thumb, use a third of your air out, a third back and a third around the
boat with at least 300-500 psi left).
8. Usually, you should begin your dive against the current and be aware of
the current changes during the dive. You can use natural clues such as the
direction of seaweed or soft corals. Look for the current lines trailed
behind the boat on the surface. We always recommend you to carry a
"safety sausage" or signal device such as "Dive
alert" with you, just in case you get separated from your buddy and
need to gain someone's attention. In rough seas this can make a BIG
difference. And don't forget a whistle. attached somewhere on your
equipment. If the current is to strong it may be necessary to pull
yourself hand-over-hand back to the boat using the stern safety line.
Relax take it easy!
9. Use common sense, training and experience - don't be afraid to ask
questions if you are unsure or don't understand something mentioned in the
dive briefing. Rick's escorted dive vacations always have one of our
instructors there to assist you in anyway possible to assure you of a safe
& hassle free trip.
10. Last but not least, allow a "margin of safety" in your dive
plan. Don't push your endurance limits. PLAN YOUR DIVE & DIVE YOUR
PLAN. You should always get in the habit of making a safety stop at
15' for 3-5 minutes before ascending. If at all possible, buy or
rent a dive computer for your trip. It makes a big difference from a
safety issue but also allows you increased bottom time.......and
isn't that really why we go diving. A safe diver is a happy diver.
Don't forget to "Slowly Ascend From Every Dive". These are
just a few of the points to keep in mind. If you have any additional
questions or comments please feel free to give us a call.
Explore far away places with
Rick's Dive 'N Travel Center
You will be glad you did
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