Divemaster Tipping

[Sh@rkW@tcher]

What is the general concensus on the appropriate tipping amount for Divemasters? To make this a bit simpler, lets divide this into tipping for standard DM services (safety/site briefing, gear setup&breakdown, surface monotoring) and tipping for in-water/guide Divemasters. Should the tip be flat rate or percentage of the charter fee? Since there are a number of working DMs on the board I'm sure there are a variety of opinions that will vary from different areas. Let's assume you are happy with the DM and intend on tipping (not a cheap b@st@rd).

 

[Rhone Man]

I usually tip a standard $20 for a two-tank dive. Given that I only pay $50 for my day on the boat (with local discount), I figure a 40% tip is pretty generous, and certainly more than I used to get from customers when I was a DM.

 

[Gen San Chris]

Tip the Divemaster over the side of the boat if he does not do a good job! Sorry!

 

[RJP]

I tip $20 for a 2-tank trip. With or without in-water guide.

 

[fisheyeview]

I usually tip $5 per tank.

 

[Sh@rkW@tcher]

Tip the Divemaster over the side of the boat if he does not do a good job! Sorry!

I guess you didn't understand the question...This was assuming you though the DM did a good job and deserved a tip.

 

[sskasser]

I tip $5 - $10 per two-tank trip, depending on service (usually $10, rarely $5). If I'm running a trip or have students, I encourage them to all do the same (I mention this in advance, so they can have the cash on them!)...PLUS I tip at least $20 in those cases. A good divemaster/boat crew is worth their weight in Florida Spiny Lobster!

 

[ONESPEED]

Tip the Divemaster over the side of the boat if he does not do a good job! Sorry!

:huh:

 

[fisheyeview]

I usually tip $5 per tank.

I should qualify this though. If I am on a boat that I don't know that well I may tip more as I always have my housed camera with me. I always make sure they know how to handle it, and not to put it in the camera rinse bucket. I always provide my own camera bin. If they take care of me, I take care of them.

I usually dive off of the same couple of boats, and the crews all know me, and know how to deal with my camera. I usually only tip $5 per tank on those boats, but I usually end up helping the crew. I sling tanks, help getting divers on the boat if the crew is stressed, work as a guide, and sometimes hook into the wrecks for them.

 

[LowVizWiz]

On a bigger boat 12+ divers $5 per tank is pretty standard and that's what I tip... if you get additional help not offered during the briefing for example you may opt to give more.

On a six-pack (if they happen to have a DM) I would do $10 per tank. If it's just the capt. I may or may not tip. (Since you asked in this forum I assume this is for local charters not abroad)

I think that it really depends on how much help you actually need from the crew. If you just need a ride to and from the water there's not much service involved there; however, if your dives are enhanced because of their help your gratitude should reflect the tip. And it doesn't always have to be money. At times, I have given or shared my catch with the DM.

On a side note, I really appreciate a sincere thank you and repeat business from a costumer even if their tips are not the biggest.