The all-inclusive tipping note -- Boats, DMs & Instructors

[FredT]

I normally just figure it as $5 per tank burned, which comes out about the same, and I don't have to think about the math. There are considerable differences to the NG and what you are asking though. As a rule the DM is an unpaid part of the crew that handles lines, hauls and sets anchors, and handles guns cameras and catch during boat re-entry. The tip you give is the pay they get for the day's work. Exceptional service is best rewarded by a significant bonus, although I have seen folks who were quite literally rescued by the DM stiff them. REALLY bad service is best tipped by telling them WHY the didn't get any other tip!

In your case you need to evaluate the "service" given by the DM, and what that service is worth to you. If it involves hauling and filling tanks the $5 per tank is a good rate, if not and the DM functions only as a rally pioint and an "instructor" to answer questions you'll need to evaluate the value of that service.


FT

 

[socaldiver]

Personally, for a shore dive I have never given a DM a monetary tip. That being said, after we are finished diving we would normally go out and get something to eat and drink. I would buy a round of drinks.

If your LDS is just having a "get together" to get wet however I don't think it is necessary or expected for that matter to tip a DM. That is assuming it is shore dives. Dive boats are entirely different.

 

[mchiapetto]

We are going to Cozumel in a week for our first dive trip since our OW certification. Assume that the crew on the dive boat do a decent job of helping out. How much of a tip would you give them for two divers who pay a rate of $50 each for the day (total cost is $100 per day)?

 

[metridium]

10% in this case, since they'll probably help you extensively and act as uw guide.

In other areas and other circumstances, it's different.

 

[Jarhead]

10%

 

[got4boyz]

So I've been giving my 10% to the dive master then someone suggested that the captain of the boat should be tipped too! How much and who all should you tip? The dive master? the captain? the helpers who set up my equipment and help me back in the boat?????

 

[Jarhead]

I can't speak for everywhere but...
In Panama City Beach, my understanding is that the Captain gets paid out of the trip fee and 1st. Mate/DM gets the tips.

 

[voidware]

Usually the DMs don't get paid because they are in the same OSHA category as commercial fisherman (or something along those lines). Since commercial fishermen tend to get hurt, often, the insurance is too expensive for dive operations. If they don't pay them, then they are not employees and don't need to follow OSHA rules.

brandon

 

[WreckWriter]

I give 20 bucks if the crew did a good job or at least tried hard to do so. I give it openly too so other pax might get the idea.

Weather is not their fault, jellyfish, bad viz, current, etc. are not either. One should keep that in mind.

10% would be enough if everyone gave it but they don't.

Tom

 

[metridium]

As I mentioned above, in other circumstances, tipping is done differently. My personal opinions:

Down Under: no tipping is standard.

US day boats: I'd say 0% to 10% per 2-tank dive is about right, depending on the level of service you required. I generally load my own tanks, setup my gear (always!), dive without a DM, and need no help getting back aboard, so there's nothing to tip for.

US liveaboards: $10 per day, as my favorite operation suggests.