The summer diving season is upon us and here are a few helpful boat tips.
Be prepared for motion sickness. Nothing can ruin a scuba experience
faster than having to hang over the leeward side of the ship for the
whole excursion! Ask your doctor about motion sickness medications that
would be right for you and make sure you choose one that will not make you
drowsy.
Avoid packing everything, but the kitchen sink (unless you honestly feel
you need it!). Space is usually limited aboard the vessel so take only what
you will need to make your dive successful. The fewer bags that you have,
the less you have to keep track of or to misplace.
Also, make sure that the vessel you will be diving from is equipped with
all necessary aids including oxygen and a first aid kit. For those diving
DIN, you may want to bring your own DIN adapter to fit the boat's cascade
system on board.
It is courteous and expected that you always make your whereabouts known
while on a boat. The crew is concerned for your safety, and if they cannot
find you, they will halt what they are doing and start looking.
Stow your equipment. As soon as you get on board and after a dive,
put your dive equipment away. Nothing is more annoying than having
to trip over someone else's equipment. Not only do you inconvenience
someone else, but also it is a safety hazard and your equipment could
get damaged.
Lastly, always listen to the divemaster/ captain. He/she may dictate
your diveplan. Follow their instructions and if you do not understand
something ask before you begin the dive.
