Charter Cylinder Sizes

[gzimmerman@msn.com]

I was wondering if charters carry different sizes of air cylinders to compensate for the differnt SAC rates of a diverse set of divers. Being a large begining diver, I imagine that an 80cf cylinder will not last very long and I would hate to feel like I am the one that would be cutiting a dive short for someone else.

Thanks for any info.

Gary

 

[Eastbayfe]

In our area on the NC coast you can request larger 100 Cu ft tanks. On my last charter in Florida that wasn't the case. Usually fellow divers are understanding and don't make an issue if your consumption is greater.

 

[JMcD]

If you are travelling, typically you will find 80"s available. I have done a live aboard that had a few 100s available for those that thought they would need/want the extra air. Also, in many destinations it is possible that a guide can lead a dive and when you are low on air have you and your buddy surface to be picked up by a boat while the rest of a group continues the dive. Coz is an obvious example where this happens. In these cases you are only pulling one other diver out of the water - if you are worried about it, be sure you tell your buddy - if he/she has a problem, find another buddy - I'll dive with a new diver - and I know many others that will.

As a "large beginning diver" don't worry too much about it. "Large" doesn't always mean faster air consumption, and "beginner" is a temporary state that we have all gone through. I'm a "small" diver and when I started I sucked through a tank faster than most. Take your time in the water, relax and try to do a little as possible. Just enjoy the dive and air consumption will improve with time in the water.

 

[TimAZ]

Best thing is to call ahead and ask. Lots do, but supplies can be limited. Also, the boat tends to be loaded and ready when you show up, so changing tanks can be a bit of a PITA.