As a deck hand I get paid per trip which is two dives. I do it because I enjoy being out on the water, I am a diver and can dive when not working, and I learn a lot about diving from the divers onboard, both good and bad. Also I am working towards my captains papers. As for tipping, the tipping is a great bonus, some people tip a lot, some people tip nothing, I don't let that affect how I work. I will help you with your gear your tanks, etc, and as a diver I am watching for anything you may have missed in your set up, such as forgetting to connect a dry suit line, air not on, weights not in etc. I try and keep an eye on my divers, and I want them to be safe and enjoy the dive. I also try and provide important information regarding the dive sites, as well I can provide my personal experience as I have dove all the sites that we put divers on. I am also there for your safety, if something happens, I will get you back on board, even if that means jumping in and pulling you back to the boat, first aid etc. Tips are always greatly appreciated as I a say, but if I don't get one it will not change how I treat you next time. We all have financial constraints, and this hobby is expensive.