As my neighbor the divorce lawyer says, there are 3 sides to every story, his, hers, and the truth.
I've been to LCBR and Brac Reef Resort multiple times ( most recently Dec 2024 ) and the OPs experience is not anything like what I have seen in the past
The waivers are sent electronically to the client by Clearly Cayman about a month before the trip, and you have the option of filling them out then, or waiting till you get to the resort. They are the same standard waivers I have had to fill out on GC and several other Caribbean destinations.
Better to do them in advance.
There is a detailed briefing video at the dive shop as well as an orientation on the boat. I welcome the DM talking about snot, spitting and peeing etiquette in addition to safety. Makes for a less smelly and more hygienic boat. I've always found the combination of video, boat briefing and briefing before each dive to be comprehensive.
Clients have the option of diving with the guide or in their own buddy group after the first dive of the week, and if they don't act like idiots. Just need to be back within the stated time.
They offer all customers the free use of wrist computers and it is up to you to use them for every dive
( which is clearly stated in the waiver ). If the OPs partner failed to wear his computer, how can the DM possibly know what his profile was, and has to assume he potentially went into deco.
If you go into deco, the rigid policy there is that you are out of the water for 24 h. ( also in the waiver )
I had an episode there a few years back where I was diving nitrox and forgot to set my computer back from air. The computer went into deco mode even though I was shallower and shorter dive than my buddy who still had lots of ND time. I gently tried to argue this but rules are rules there, even though I felt safe and am a regular there. I had to graciously accept my 24 h out of the water. Not so hard to spend a day lounging by the pool or top deck of the dive boat, snorkelling, biking, birding, visiting the museum or the Nature Conservancy.
With relatively large groups and variable diver ability, I completely understand the need for firm guidelines to try to keep everyone safe. They are a little more crowded now as they lost 2 boats in a hurricane last fall.
I don't understand the vaping on the boat incident. I've seen the DMs in the past go crazy if someone tried to sneak a vape or a cigarette. However, if the OP says she saw it, I don't dispute it.
Overall my personal experience at Reef Divers has been very, very positive which is why I keep going back.
