Saturday’s Catch from the Gloria
Tips and Advice that everyone should know to dive NJ
I’ve been diving in New Jersey waters for a couple of years now on many boats and have befriended both Captains and mates on these boats. I’ve been running our boats (yes, there’s been more than one) for ten years and the following comments are directed at no specific boat. These tips you find below are not ordered by importance.
1. Common Courtesy! The mates are unpaid help. Yes they get to dive (most times), but you must understand that the dive masters are the ones that tie the boat into the wreck; help the passengers get geared up; handle any and all problems you may have including gear breakdowns and body overheating to the most critical of situations such as rescues. They arrive early and leave late; cleaning the heads at days end, washing the boats and helping the divers in any way possible. They pay out of the pocket to be on a drug testing program and for dive master insurance. What this all boils down to is a little common courtesy that is dwindling away in our society. On fish boats there is a required tip sign posted and the patrons abide by it, much like a restaurant. I know diving is already expensive but would it kill you to give them a tip? It’s the only money they get for a hard days work on the dive boat. I know many times our mates take off from work to bust their butts with me on the boat. I really have a problem with seeing a waiter or waitress get 15% or more tip for serving a meal and a dive master that you’re life depends on gets nothing or maybe five dollars.
2. Timeliness! Arrive at the boat NO less then a half an hour before the scheduled departure time. Be ready to leave the dock with your gear set up by no later than the departure time. Getting to the boats at 15 minutes before departure means you’re late; I don’t care how fast you are at getting ready. Most boats will leave the dock early if they have everybody on board.
3. Cancellation Policy! If you book a spot on a boat, it’s yours. Cancelling a day or two before does not eliminate your obligation to pay. Most times they’ll try to fill the spot, but if the space can’t be filled, it’s still yours. If you’re not going to make it call the contact number and let them know. It makes everybody unhappy when they are waiting for a no-show. If you’re running late, call and let the crew know. This is a phone number you should be asking for in case of that last minute emergency.
4. Respect Space on the Boat! When on the boat keep your area neat; the crew is there to help you enjoy your time diving, not to move your gear around so it doesn’t get damaged. That’s you’re responsibility.
5. Obey the Rules! Some boats have specific rules that apply to their boat. Ask if you can take your own cooler or gear box. Many boats have very strict rules over what you can bring. I believe you should never go on a dive without a reel, a surface marker, etc. Ask these questions if you don’t already know the answer.
6. Don’t Be Shy! Open your mouth when on a boat if you have a question. You’ll find some of the best information about anything concerning diving from the crew and many of the passengers. If you don’t feel comfortable diving without a buddy and don’t have one, let the dive master know. The mates are on the boat to show you a good time and they’ll either team you up with someone they trust or take you down themselves.
7. First Timers! On our boat if it’s your first dive in the ocean we’ll send you down with a mate. He’ll give you a tour and you’ll have a great first dive. This is how you learn to be a great diver. The mates dive often and have excellent knowledge of the dive sites and the environment.
8. Dive Often! You’ll never be a good, solid diver by coming out on a boat once or twice a year. Advancing your knowledge through classes is a good way to learn about diving techniques, but you have to get out and practice your skills to become a better diver.
9. Snorkels are for snorkeling! Not diving in New Jersey.
10. Streamlining! Don’t bring or go over the side with every piece of dive gear you own. Only take with you what you will need each dive.
11. Have Fun! Bring a sense of humor and enjoy your day out on the ocean. The Crew and Captain are there for that very reason; why not join in?
12. Be Safe! Remember, YOU are responsible for your safety. The Crew can help you with many things, but you’re the one doing the diving. Make an effort to avoid doing things such as free ascents. Make sure you do a safety stop and come up the line slowly. Of course, if you don’t feel quite right about a dive or anything, let the crew know. If you have an ache or pain after the dive, try breathing some Oxygen. All the boats have it for that specific purpose: to help you. Don’t think that anyone will look down on you if a situation like that arises.
14. P.P.P.P.P.P.P. – Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance. Don’t forget the Seven P’s.
15. HAVE A GOOD TIME, dive within your limits.
Capt. Bill and the Crew of the Tuna Seazure arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgghh.
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