JBFG
Contributor
SM can absolutely be done from the get-go. So many people are saying it is information overload but a new diver doesn't know what they don't know. If you teach them in SM, that is how they will wire their minds as far as gas sharing, reg switching, etc. I believe it can be more difficult to teach someone who already has engrained behaviors from backmount.
As far as it being harder on a boat...I call B.S.!! I easily gear up and backroll with no issues. I have also done giant strides on a Thailand cattle boat with zero issues. Like anything it is all about practice, practice, practice.
I will say that finding a quality SM instructor who dives predominantly in that config is key. Also, if you are heading to Thailand, go check out my mate at Erik at Hydronauts on Koh Tao. He can teach you how to dive SM properly. Oh and tell him Turk says hi.
I'm just quoting this as it should be read multiple times.