Boat Diving

• Introduction

• Terminology

• Equipment

• Procedures

Boat Diving

Why pay to go on a vessel?• It allows you to reach locations with:

– The best clarity– The most aquatic life– The most interesting reefs

• It eliminates long tiring hikes to the shore, swims to the sites and the carrying of gear

• You get to meet new friends with the same common interests

• You get to sight see along the way

Boat Diving Terminology

#1 – Starboard Side

#2 – Port Side

#3 – Bow

#4 – Stern

#5 – Windward Side

Boat Diving Terminology

Additional terms:•Forward

•Aft

•Galley

•Head

•Bridge

•Companionway

•Leeward

•Wheelhouse

•Helm

Boat DivingTypes of vessels

Inflatable Vessels• Holds from 1 – 6 people

Boat DivingTypes of vessels

Canoes• Holds from 1 – 3 people

Boat DivingTypes of vessels

Day Boats

• 2 – 10 people

Boat DivingTypes of vessels

Private Yacht

• 2 – 20 people

Boat DivingTypes of vessels

Commercial Live Aboard Dive Vessels– From 6 – 50 passengers

Boating Equipment

Life preservers

Boating Equipment

EPIRB – Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon

Boating Equipment

Fire Extinguisher – Fire fighting equipment

Boating Equipment

Sound Signaling Devices

Air Horn

Bell

Whistle

Boating Equipment

Marine VHF Radio

Boating Equipment

First Aid Kit

Boating Equipment

Oxygen First Aid Kit

Boating Equipment

Bilge pump or bailer

Boating Procedures

Procedures common to most dive charters:• Pre-boarding and boarding

– Plan on arriving at least ½ hour prior to departure time– Check in with boat if necessary– Ask permission before boarding– Ask where you should set up your dive gear– Ask where you should stow additional items

• Food & beverages• Clothing• Log books, camera etc.

– Listen to any boat briefings• Coast Guard required briefing• What’s permitted and what’s off limits• Travel time to dive site

Boating Procedures

Procedures common to most dive charters:• Pre-departure up to pre-dive

– Prepare, fill and pack your gear• Make sure all your gear is marked with your name• Inventory your get so you don’t forget items• Fill your tanks• Pack in reverse order – space is at a premium• Remember cloths for post dive

– Warm clothing– Rain gear– Sunscreen

– Remember your seasickness precautions

Boating ProceduresSeasicknessSome people are more prone to seasickness then others

Prevention:• If needed take medication before boarding the vessel• Avoid greasy foodsUnderway:• Stay in the open air• Stay in the centerline of the boat focus on the horizon• Avoid intricate tasksIf it occurs:• Go to the leeward rail• Bring a buddy

Boating Procedures

Procedures common to most dive charters:• Pre-Dive Briefing

– Site overview • Depth, time, currents, POI & Hazards

– Entry procedures – Boat signaling procedures– Recall procedures– Exit procedure

• How to use the current line and board the ladder

– Post dive procedures• Where to sit• Camera, spear gun etc.

Boating Procedures

Procedures common to most dive charters:

• Post Dive– Roll call

• Secure gear• Stop all conversations• Answer only for yourself• Answer loudly

Boating Diving

Enjoy the experience!