Scuba Diving in Thailand

Checking Dive Boats in Thailand

Check Your Dive Boat?

You often can't check the boat before you get on it. But you can ask questions before the trip and it's always worth a walk around before you go out.

Important points to consider:

• Does the boat look clean and well cared for?
• Does it have the usual facilities - tank ranks, dive platform, a boarding ladder that is easy to climb, adequate bad weather protection, ship-to-shore communications, life jackets and buoyancy aids?
• Does the boat carry emergency oxygen - not just a DAN set, but a large tank to ensure sufficient supply for at least two divers for the length of time from the dive site back to land.
• Is the DAN set clean and well cared for? No mould on the mouth piece and no missing components? Do they have more than one breathing unit? Is the large tank full?
• Do they have a comprehensive medical kit? It should be able to deal with accidents on the boat - cuts, grazes, broken bones, upset stomachs, seasickness - as well as marine stings, coral cuts, urchin spines and diving accidents. A good medical box will have a waterproof description of the medications, how they should be used and any relevant warnings.
• Does the Dive Master carry an Emergency Plan containing phone numbers of specialist hospitals re compression chambers, fast boat or helicopter etc?

Less Serious but Important Dive Boat Issues

• Is there a galley to cook fresh food or will your meals be boxed and stored?
• Does the dive boat have adequate and fresh supplies of drinking water and other drinks?
• Are meals and drinks included in the price?
• Does the boat have ample and comfortable seating?
• Does the boat have shelter if it rains?
• Does the dive boat have adequate toilet and shower facilities?
• What means do the crew use for ensuring that all divers are logged in and out of the water to ensure nobody is left behind?

Thailand Diving