Wreck Diving Etiquette

Divers on the Baron Gautsch

Photo by sbabic6

Wreck diving can be an exciting and fascinating activity, but did you know that there is a certain etiquette that you should follow? It is always important to consider the others that will be on the boat along with you so that the trip is just as enjoyable and safe for everyone else who will be onboard. The following will provide you with some essential tips that you should keep in mind. One of the most important things that you can do while wreck diving is to stay on schedule. Nobody likes to have to wait for a straggler and if the boat decides not to wait for you then this could ruin your trip as well. Be sure to start out a little early so if something unexpected comes up you can adapt to the situation to hopefully still make it on time.

One way that you can help to stay on schedule is to keep all your gear together and organized. Also make sure to keep your certification card handy so if you need to show it you will not have to sift through everything to find it. Another important facet of wreck diving etiquette is to make sure that you have everything that you need for the excursion ahead of time. The last thing you want is to have to bother others for equipment and materials that you should have had ahead of time.

Certain things that you should always have on hand include the following: a towel, shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and any other articles of clothing that you may need along the way. Next, it is important that all your wreck diving equipment be in good working order before you set out.

Odds are there will not be any repair technicians on the boat when you set sail so it is important that everything is working and set up properly. While on the ship always stow your gear where you are directed by the ship’s crew. It is always important to follow their directions because they are intended for you and your crew mates’ safety. In addition, pieces of gear such as weight belts should always be on the floor and out of the pathways so no one will trip over them. It is also a good idea to set up your wreck diving gear, such as your BC and regulator while still on the dock if possible. You will find that it is much easier to work with your tank when you are in a stable location and not rocking around. Your crew will let you know when it is time to put on your wet suit as well as your other pieces of equipment, so do not do so until you are directed to. After all, it is not good to walk around the boat in your wetsuit and fins unless necessary.

The SS Thistlegorm

Photo by Helen Parris

When it comes to diving the wreck itself, is when your behaviour really becomes important. You will descend down to the wreck with the other divers and be able to explore the wreckage at the dive site but remember that many of the vessels are old and decaying, so one should avoid bumped into old wooden structures or rusty metal frames, essentially divers are the ones who are able to determine how long a wreck will last.

Especially applicable on old war wrecks, you may come across interesting artefacts such as ammunitions, fire arms or even just cutlery. Please leave these items where they are, they are a vital part of the wreck dive and provides divers with far more atmosphere and history on the wreck itself. As most of you know, diving a wreck with some artefacts still in it allows for a much different experience from an empty vessel. You can almost hear the stories of the ship, so please leave it that way for future divers.

Another aspect is to be considerate to fellow divers with you while diving wrecks, sure everyone wants to penetrate the hull on some occasions, but often needs to be done in turns, so don’t get greedy and spend all your time in the hull exploring while your fellow divers wait outside for you to finish your gallivanting. Also when diving, consider the other divers who may be taking photographs, do your best to not get in the way and selfishly block any attempts they might be taking on getting a certain shot. It all comes down to basic thought and consideration.