Asia Divers / El Galleon question....

[Seekup]

Hi! We are a week out from our trip and getting packed Do I need to take my mesh bag to move gear from the lockers to the dive boat? I wasn't sure about the logistics of the of their dive operation. Any info is appreciated. Thanks!

 

[fuggler]

No. Your stuff will be in a crate and the boat guys will take care of bringing them on boat every single dive. (unless you give them specific instructions)

 

[Seekup]

Good news, one less thing to pack....

Another question. Do people typically tip the entire staff at once, like on a liveaboard, or tip the divemasters separately? Any advice on the tipping customs/amounts?

Thanks for the info!

 

[Hammerhead]

There's a tip box in the dive shop which is shared among the staff. You can also buy the DM's beer in the Point Bar - that works. For service "over and above", P1,000 directly to the person who went the extra yards or so won't break the bank, and will be more than welcome.

 

[Seekup]

Thanks!

 

[shotdisc98]

Is it customary to tip after every dive or at the end of the week? Captain and DM? Want to make sure I don't miss anyone... Thanks! Leaving for El Galleon in 3 weeks!

 

[Centrals]

I only tip at the end of the trip.
How to tip is NOT easy!!!!!! It can get very complicated.
The dive shop might have a tip box but the "content" might not be shared among everyone!!! The dive guide could be free-lance and rely on the commission rebate by the shop!!
I would certainly NOT tip the guide alone because other peoples are also involved.

Tip is bread and butter for them but your personal attitude is even more important. A big smile would certainly go down very well.

 

[Kevrumbo]

I usually tip at the end of my stay/dive days. Techasia (tech diving division of Asiadivers) has a tip box in the office, and that's where I drop the gratuities after I settle my Helium/Oxygen bill. . .

 

[shotdisc98]

I know that everyone has a differing opinion, but is there an amount that's customary, like a 15-20% gratuity when eating out, or $5/dive here in CA? I want to make sure to pack enough cash to take care of the DM and staff appropriately but am finding that different areas in the world approach it differently.

 

[Centrals]

Do not feel oblige to tip, you are not in USA.
Tip is not expected in Philippines but greatly appreciated.
On many occasions especially in the province, the waiter/waitress asked me why I left some money behind!!!!!
15-20%!!!!!! Please do not set a bad precedent.
US$5-10 per day is adequate for the guide and the shop together.
Of course, sky the limit.

Good diving.