Valet Diving Needs To DIE! The Most Dangerous Trend in Scuba Diving

Valet Diving Needs To DIE! The Most Dangerous Trend in Scuba Diving is diminished responsibility being disguised as luxury service. I'm mad for this one!
It's Mouthpiece Monday time again, people. This time, I'm taking aim at Valet Dive Services. 'All you have to do is dive' - NO! No. You have to be responsible and when your personal accountability is being stripped away in the name of customer service, that's where I have a problem!
Scuba Divers, there is nothing wrong with enjoying luxury customer service when you're relaxing on vacation! Of course not! But you have to draw the line when over zealous Dive Masters want to cross over into doing tasks for you that you really should be doing yourself.
Let me know in the comments below if you agree with me or not!
Thanks for watching!
D.S.D.O,
James
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Valet Diving Needs To DIE! The Most Dangerous Trend in Scuba Diving
Though we are based in Florida, Hawaii, California, and Michigan have 100 ft and 300 ft ocean and lake underwater coral reef, shipwreck, cave diving, freediving, scuba diving, and rebreather trips. To learn full face mask, beginner scuba diver, advanced scuba diver, tech scuba diver, cave diver you can reach out to a professional scuba diver. Everyone should get scuba diving insurance with Divers Alert Network.
Over the years we have dived the best places like South Africa, Australia Great Barrier Reef, Belize, Honduras, Palau Micronesia, Bahamas, Mexico, Bonaire to see sharks, fish, coral, sites that the National Geographics would go to. We plan to follow Tourpia, Fearless & Fun, Drew Binsky and companies like Expedia, Jetsetter and Mojo Travelers to Egypt Red Sea, Indonesia, Thailand, Galapagos, Maldives, Cozumel and Cocos Islands Costa Rica in the near future.

[@rapha9125]

we wanted to shore dive at the hotel beach. The tank of my GF leaked heavily and a DM came and brought us a another nitrox tank. I wanted to analyse it myself. He didnt understand why, because all tanks are analysed when filled. He was really mad, that i insisted on doing it myself. After i analysed the tank i found out it had 43% instead of the 32% written on it. This was the first and the last time, i had anything to do with a DM doing stuff for us.

[@Cleanser23]

Wow that's mind blowing. Not only was it over TEN PERCENT off it was beyond recreational limits. How could a certified DM not know that one of the major teaching points of the course is that every diver is responsible for their own analysis??? Your gf could have died if you went down past ~75 feet with that right? In Jupiter, that's the *average* depth of our dives,

[@rapha9125]

@@Cleanser23 yes, this could have been deadly. The Problem is, that most divers dont want to check their nitrox or assemble their gear. Valet diving is dangerous, but some people like it, because they dont know it better

[@lmlmd2714]

Jesus fucking christ. 1 or 2% is kind of understandable, but 11% out? What the actual fuck? That's not just sloppy, that's downright dangerous.

[@MartijnKlijnstra]

Filling 42% when wanting to fill 32% sounds very unlikely. Wrong analysis sounds way more likely

[@rapha9125]

@@MartijnKlijnstra could be. but all other bottles had 28-34. I tested it 3 times, because i couldnt beleave it

[@weiniesail]

so whats the name of the dive resort that let's you do rails in the v berth? (for research purposes of course)

[@Findingmenno]

A subject close to my heart and one that I enjoyed discussing with James. Having working experience as a dive instructor in the Caribbean and SE-Asia I'm all too familiar with 'valet diving'. Those that have dived or worked with me know that I'm all about providing excellent customer service. Therefore in principle I'm all for things that improve the guest experience, including aspects of 'valet diving'. However in practice I've seen it create dangerous situations, and especially create the wrong mind-set. By doing more things for the diver, it creates a slippery slope where the diver sheds more and more responsibilities and care for their own safety, as well as losing skills. The dive pro's become ever more a crutch to replace subpar competency by assembling gear, and nannying divers underwater. This leads to some real-life examples such as: > "I ran out of air because you gave me an empty tank!". Might happen, not great by the boat crew, but a not uncommon slip-up that you as diver need to catch in your pre-dive check. > "I ran out of air because you didn't ask me to check my SPG!" We do not want to nanny certified divers, we brief to give us the half-tank sign, but you need to check your SPG. Some comments here mention 'I know how to set up my gear, I enjoy somebody else to do it''. I understand that sentiment, but unfortunately in my experience that makes you a minority as most would actually not know how to set up their gear. And even then, do also do you have the discipline to do your own pre-dive check, and dive plan with your buddy? In my experience once you start taking tasks and responsibilities away, others will follow. So before I sound like a grumpy old instructor, what aspects of valet do I think are ok? Well unsurprisingly it is pretty much the same as James summarizes it. I'm more than happy to carry bags, lift tanks, put a new full tank at your station in the boat, give a hand with tightening your fins straps, hold open your BCD shoulder strap so you can slide in easily. If you have trouble setting up your equipment I'd gladly give you pointers and together we run through it. But I want you to be the best and safest diver out there, and that doesn't work when I take away your skills and responsibilities!

[@lydialeigh4]

You describe the pros and cons perfectly. I like that you also mention the “Nanny” syndrome, where divers expect you to even prompt them to check their SPG. I got used to that prompt too, and worried less about just checking it myself. “.... wrong mind-set ... where the diver sheds more and more responsibilities and care for their own safety ....” Could not be said any better then that.

[@wendyhawkes9813]

"Subcontracting out your safety" - love it. Sums up my thoughts entirely. Been diving since 1990 and (after long hiatus...kids, you know) now finishing up my DM candidacy. Never trusted valet service on a dive boat no matter how lazy I felt on holiday! "Maybe valet diving is totally fine; maybe it's just me..." It's not just you, James. Spoil me with fresh towels, maybe a hot flannel post-dive and bring me some freshly cut pineapple. Cart my gear on and off the boat, sure. But I agree that it's frankly irresponsible for a dive operation to assume that level of culpability for their customers. Well said!

[@williamdavis2565]

"Fast spreading throughout Southeast Asia".... NO, don't touch my phucking gear!

[@shuntao3475]

Most Tourist Divers that goto SE Asia, are wealthy and want to be spoiled.

[@williamdavis2565]

​@@shuntao3475 I get it.

[@lukem2889]

@@shuntao3475 I'm a tourist diver that goes to SE Asia but I'm far from wealthy hahahaha. If I was wealthy I'd be going to the Red Sea or Maldives or Micronesia, not Thailand and Philippines

[@tylertong5613]

We just returned from Cozumel. A husband and wife kept diving into others. My wife and I were holding hands and they swam between us. On the boat getting ready for 2nd dive, they announced to our group that they've done over 60 dives. Good for them. As we were switching tanks, they asked our DM to do it because they've never done it before. After over 60 dives!🙄 Then they told DM their dive computer wasn't working. DM says they need a new battery. "OH, Can you change it for us? " (In the boat, on water ready for second dive!!!!) James,I agree with your sentiments completely!

[@scubasteveandunderwaterroc3547]

I had no clue this was even a thing. I thought a DM grabbing me my weights was next level stuff when it happened.

[@johnjob9523]

I had no clue myself! I had to set up all my gear from training up till this day!

[@papats_adventures2326]

I have been on two boats this year where they wanted to setup my gear. I simply said no thank you but you are welcome to do a budy check.

[@jordannewsom4578]

lol you just made me giggle a little harder than I expected!! That was funny and yeh same thing here, like a dive master grabbing my spear gun for me as I get back in the boat was what I thought to be top notch service😂🤣

[@kodiererg]

As a skydiver I noticed that after I learned to pack and owned my own gear, that my canopy didn't open the way I wanted it too all the time if I paid a packer. So as a scuba diver I'll let someone carry my tanks, but I'll set up the gear

[@curtismeeks138]

Just got back from Curacao a couple weeks ago, and dove almost everyday through my resort at Sandals. They let us set up our own, but did come around and double check everything, which we appreciated, as my wife and I are relatively new divers. They did a great job and were very safe and professional.

[@denisebryant5063]

My son is a disabled diver. We dive with a very special dive group that assigns a minimum of one buddy and often two to each disabled diver. This is the only time in our future I will allow him to dive without checking his gear myself. Some of these individuals are para’s and quad’s and can’t rig their own gear so they depend on their buddies 100%. I have learned two very valuable lessons our last two trips with our local dive shop with valet diving involved. I’ll take the credit for allowing it and it won’t ever happen again. I’m just grateful both happened to me and not to him. I’ll also take the hit because I was focused on him and not appropriately enough on myself. Just grateful to still be here to make sure things change for us. You’re on it James!

[@carlokop556]

Is this really a thing? Yeah I'm not going to trust anyone else with analyzing my gas mix and setting up my gear.

[@borneodivingaddicts8440]

Unfortunately yes. Especially in Asia. But not for nitrox analysing..

[@huntermorgan9660]

It is in the Caribbean. After 3 years of working as a guide and instructor, I see people are more likely expect Nitrox to be analyzed before they show up and just trust a number on a sticker

[@searcaig]

Had this in Philippines and Indonesia but only the once at any resort I've stayed in. After I've told them I prefer to set up my gear the way I like it they have left it to me. Gas analysis is always done by me, nobody else, and the majority of places I've used are pretty strict about that.

[@hedonismbot1508]

@@searcaig I'm about to go for my Nitrox certification, and the PADI manual has it in bold text with their "caution" symbol: You the diver MUST personally verify the readout on the oxygen analyzer each time you get a tank filled.

[@michaelterrien1649]

We see valet diving most places we dive. I love the "leave your gear, we'll rinse it, hang it, and have it back on the boat tomorrow" part. Even have labels on all our gear to avoid it getting lost. I trust the shop to do daily rinses adequately because I know when I get home I'll have it all in my own fresh water bathtub for multiple thorough rinses. That's just part of our routine for dive trips. But setting it up and doing a pre-dive check is different. When it's my safety in question, I want to be responsible for it. Delighted to have a second pair of eyes on it, but it's my responsibility because I'm the one who's going to have to deal with the consequences of any mistake.

[@cavediver2579]

You are spot on with that. I did one trip years ago. The crew didn’t like me taking my gear apart and putting it back together properly. Next step was me telling them bring it to the boat but don’t put it together. The next step was me taking it back to my room with me because I didn’t want their grubby hands touching my gear

[@williamwells8672]

I'm a newer diver, but I want to setup my own equipment. I like having someone double check and a private guide in the water. James you make 100% sense on this.

[@lmlmd2714]

I was out of the scene for a good ten years, so came back completely new, and I agree. I'd never let anyone set my gear up, but I always *always* get my buddy to do a sanity check for me and make sure I've done it right, and I do the same for them. My gear might not be the best in the world (ain't that the truth) but I know it and would never want anyone else setting it up and would never want a rental setup.

[@martink.8132]

Yes, I second that. Even letting my buddy on my tank valve is a only happening after I made sure he knows what he is doing. Responsibility can not be shared.

[@SaltyLocs]

Personally if I on a boat dive I have no issue with the helpers getting my tanks switched.... thats about it. Depends on how i feel.

[@paulinejackson5861]

100% agree. I've dived with divers who have spent all their diving lives with valet services - they almost didn't want to fin themselves and wanted us to drag them through the water

[@PanamaDiveAdventure]

Being an autonomous diver is important, you should always be clear about your setup

[@Mr539forgotten]

Don't tell them that DPV's exist then.

[@mendezfe]

That one time I jumped from the boat with a closed valve was the last time I relied on valet diving...

[@mendezfe]

Yes, I am sure... Very inexperienced, but still. We were on a resort during vacation and got somehow used to getting checked by a DC member who took care of everything (carrying rental equipment, giving us a helping hand while donning, etc.) rendering the buddy check routines shallower with every dive. That day, we were heading for a drift dive with a negative entry and I remember that I could breath maybe two times before running out of gas, so at some point the valve must have been open. Is all this an example for how it should not be done? Sure. Am I the only one to blame for my entry with a closed valve? Absolutely. Luckily, nothing serious happened as I could reach my valve quickly, but this incident taught me a lot and I radically changed my attitude and behaviour which is exactly why I was sharing it in the first place.

[@DiveMonster]

So you didn't take a breath or 2 before the dive and looked at your gauge. Well, burn your certification card and start all over again to learn diving. It is the ultimate responsibility of the diver to check his gear and its functionality before going into the water. No matter what service you receive at the boat. So yeah, you basically ignored the basics of the first OW course lesson and try to blame valet diving, while there is really only one irresponsible person which you can see when looking into a mirror.

[@mendezfe]

@@DiveMonster „you [...] try to blame valet diving“... if you just had bothered reading the thread, you would have seen that this is exactly what I am not doing. Quite the opposite. We got way too comfortable and our safety checks got shallower and shallower leading to a human error at our/my side. „Burn your certification card“ ... I am fine with having learnt from my mistake. By openly sharing it, I hope to support others in learning from it as well, but thank you for your encouraging response to that. ✌️

[@mayanbluxplorer4668]

Always test breathe your reg, before getting in the water. That way you'll know if air turned off or not.

[@ststele]

On my last boat dive, I was very alarmed when the DM insisted on swapping to the second tank during our surface interval. He said, "you can go have a snack or drink. We worry about this". No way, not me!

[@dclangst]

Nobody cares about me more than me. I’ll handle my own gear thanks. I’ll still tip the same, don’t worry.

[@ianmycroft6979]

As an older diver, (approaching 70) I appreciate having a DM help me put my kit on... But I do all the setting up and safety checks! I remember on one dive in the Maldives the valve on the cylinder was faulty and wouldn't turn on. One of the crew came along and hit it with a hammer, which got it to turn on. He was quite perplexed when I refused to dive with it and insisted on a replacement cylinder!! This is one good reason why I'll always do my own set ups and safety checks!!

[@nyssettemarie]

I would have been so scared of diving with them and using any of their rental equipment after witnessing that! Scary and concerning! Also, very cool that you are living your best life! :) I love seeing positive and inspirational representations of older adulthood. Keep exploring and making each year top the one before!

[@ianmycroft6979]

@@nyssettemarie thank you, I do my best to keep going. I'm recovering from cancer treatment just now, but already back to diving! 😀👌

[@nyssettemarie]

that is amazing! glad to know you are recovering and if you are diving again that is a great sign! I am in my 30s and have faced medical issues as well (spinal fusion and cervical as well due to a neck fracture years later). I am on my 6th dive as of today haha got my certification last weekend. Life does go on if you set your mind and body up for success! You should vlog or write about your story! I can imagine how it could give hope to those who catastrophize illness and lost hope@@ianmycroft6979

[@sunkisseddiversokinawa6086]

Yes, finally! I've had many divers with over 50 dives, who had no clue how to set up their gear because of this nonsense service and some even complained, that they had do do their own gear :D

[@1984mrdale]

Yep, in Okinawa you see it all the time. Sunkissed, I’m sure you have seen it too at Maeda Point, people getting dragged around the reef by a local “instructor”. I enjoy seeing your pics on Oki divers Facebook page.

[@kodiererg]

:O

[@adam211086]

100% agree. If you cant set your gear up, get back on a refresher course. Sure as shit no one else is setting my kit up.

[@MarkN67]

You are spot on with everything you've said here. Good service is what you've stated. I had a similar thing happen to me in the Maldives a few years ago. They started to set my gear up until I asked them to stop. I always have my valve fully open because I know if I have a problem, it will only turn off, and I don't have to worry about which way to turn it in an emergency. I was kitted up and ready to dive, reg in, mask on etc and the same boat hand came along, put his hand over my shoulder and touched my valve. With that I took my kit off and made a point of checking it again. The dive guide then had a go at me for slowing up the entry. I pointed out that I was ready to go and his boat hand touched my kit. I'm a PADI MSDT Instructor and TDI Adv Trimix diver, I know what I'm doing.

[@Daze_d]

Can't really understand how people trust other people to prepare their equipment... One time during the pool training for my P1 course (equivalent to OW) another guy mounted my BCD/tank/regulator because he thought that it was his equipment, "ok no problem mate!" but I still didn't feel comfortable at 100% knowing that somebody else "touched" my stuff, and it was in a pool!

[@lsewell95]

When I was a very new diver (think less than a year after getting my OW), I went on some dives in Mexico. The dive operator I used didn't set gear up for you initially but did swap tanks for you between dives. At the time, I remember thinking that it was a nice touch. My first dive went without issue. However, prior to my second dive, they swapped my tank and I did not check behind them. In the middle of that dive, my tank came out of my BCD and started tagging along behind me. DM sorted me out but I learned a valuable lesson and have never let anyone change my tank for me again without a THOROUGH double check of the gear to make sure tank was secure and everything was still set up like I had it originally. Needless to say, I am not a fan of valet diving.

[@nyssettemarie]

That is so scary!! I'm glad the DM noticed it quickly and helped you sort this out but wow, that could have been a fatal situation easily

[@buxtonspice1532]

I've dived with shops in Bali where they insisted on doing a lot for me including changing the tanks during dives, carrying tank to boat, tank off boat, disassemble gear. These were $35/tank outfits. The only person who insisted I set up and disassemble my gear every time was the instructor who certified me.

[@davidanderson5259]

Valet diving is pretty common in Hawaii too. It's expensive to dive there, but they [try] to add a lot of value. I'm 100+ dives, so a step above novice, but I'd say it took me half my dives to feel confident in setting up my gear, simply because I had DMs do it for me as a service. Big mistake to let this happen. There's also the likelihood that your gear may get set up wrong [esp. if it's the least bit non-standard] or otherwise mishandled. No DM or boat crew is going to clean/rinse or pack your gear with the same care you will take, and you will miss out on the careful maintenance checks too. I've seen gear casually dunked in nasty rinse tanks and put away dripping wet in a concrete cubbyhole in the back of a dive shop, regs mixed up in a jumble on the dock, small items lost or put in the wrong pile... Then there was that memorable occasion of a cenote dive in Mexico when all my gear was packed up in my dive bag [by the shop people who stored it overnight] at the bottom of the pile in the bus where I couldn't look at it. After an hour's drive to the dive site I discovered that my familiar wetsuit had been left back at the shop. So, I had a long [15minute+] embarrassing struggle into a thick 'spare' wetsuit two sizes too small that I had to keep on through our dive interval/lunch break because I'd never get it back on a second time. Nope. Keep a grip on your own gear, learn to set it up ASAP, maintain it yourself and don't let other people handle it unless it's for professional maintenance.

[@randyfreston962]

I believe that one can enjoy the convenience of Valet Diving and still retain ownership and not be complacent. The analogy I would use is work smarter, not harder. One can Manage tasks that are performed and also provide QA on them to ensure they are completed correctly. Some of the strongest safety measures and processes have more than one person involved. Ownership of gear after initial setup includes; 1. I always analyze nitrox myself or look directly at the analyzer for reading as the staff does it. Honest mistakes can lead to wrong MOD's and increase the risk of Oxygen toxicity. 2. Inspecting BDC placement and configuration often making minor adjustments. 3. Always putting my regulator on and testing it myself. I always carry my Reg with me and it's never left with any Op or person even when valet. 4. Inspecting the configuration of all other gear as necessary. 5. Confirming the lead is in my pockets and that it is the correct amount. Complacency. Do I really need to keep fresh on moving my BDC and Lead from tank #1 to #2 between dives on a 2 tank trip? Or can I let the young, strong buck do it, and save my back the strain? As long as I'm performing the above safety checks and validating settings and configuration, am I not in some ways going the same routine but with less manual labor? Have you ever inspected a student's dive gear configuration before a dive and found vulnerabilities that were then fixed before the dive started? How is Valet Diving any different than that for those that are serious divers? Numerous successful safety protocols and processes often involved one person doing the initial configuration and the second performing QA on the settings to ensure that they are correct and safe. With the correct mindset, cant valet diving be convenient and safe?

[@rubenabril5530]

Definitely, but it is fair to say watch for redundancy versus complacency. I have seen both sides. But have lucked out with a valet style that aimed to be top notch. Assembling in view and asking for feedback/ requesting for adjustments. Not discipline for not setting up, etc. But, James. You bring up valid points to keep in mind.

[@marior.2236]

Totally agree with you James, nobody can set up my gear for me or analyse my gases. What a crazy idea...

[@rlinhares]

What I expect from a Dive company: All the help they can give, plus lifting all the heavy weight. The safety checks are between me and my buddy, thank you.

[@SeattleRingHunter]

Absolutely correct message! Thanks for speaking up on this big elephant on the boat! Early in my dive carrier I actually had a rushed valet dive master that didn’t get my Apex rubber ball dust cap completely centered on my 1st stage after reentry on the boat and then proceeded to slam rinse my reg in their plastic trashcan of fresh water. Idiot rushed at night as seas were rising and didn’t take full care of my gear as I would have. Mistakes do happen but still it didn’t make me happy. Fortunately my reg didn’t suffer any long term damage but it was a close call! As a self reliant diver I don’t want them anywhere near my gear to be honest. How else am I going to identify maintenance issues if I’m not hands on with my own gear before every dive if it’s 10’ or 80’ it’s my ass strapped into my own kit and I am fully responsible for all aspects of my dive plan! Let’s be honest if those once a year snowflake divers can’t manage their own pre-dive checks they have no business being in open water until they have enough confidence and demonstrated skills on basic gear setup and personal pre-checks! But let’s not beat up the dive customers it’s really shame on those dive business that offer this level of sit on your ass as we do it all for you that make the customer feel OK with this whole concept in the first place! Valet diving is breeding a bunch of complacent holiday divers and complacent divers are setting up the odds against themselves and potential of taking on a serious dive incident. When your the pilot in command you don’t let your steward do your pre flight! Shame on the dive industry for even allowing this crap to take place. But when money flows at these big warm water resorts common since and safe practice often suffers. Never going to change that. Cheers, #SeattleRingHunter

[@divingsanta]

Agree 100% - but I am also a bit sceptical on having the DM check that the air is on, depends on how they do it. Recently the DM turned the air almost off for my buddy on a black water dive when he was checking just before we jumped in. No big problem for us, but very annoying.

[@gerbacka]

1000% agree. One of my first dives was at a resort in Fiji where the DM tried to take care of everything. I made the mistake of not double checking everything, and when I hit the water I heard and felt rush of air against my neck. O-ring was shot, and a simple check would have caught that. Always set up and check your own gear.

[@radyphilips8710]

Agree, don’t touch my gear. I’ll handle my own life safety equipment, thank you!!!

[@dannyholden5361]

Happens too much. I’ve taken “experienced” people on dives who say they’ve been diving for years and have x amount of dives. Yet they are struggling to set kit up properly or if they do it’s just hoses hanging all over the place. These are usually the same people who brush you off when you try to help

[@thomasw5430]

Great segment James! I do a lot of traveling and I have been on a few boats where the crew felt they had to do everything for me. I have always been quick to tell them thatIw as fine doing my own setups. The crew were taken aback most of the time. I like the parachute analogy you used, since that is the way I look at it myself.

[@briandhuff]

This is all part of the Dumbing Down Diving trend we've seen over the past X years. Make it easier to get certified, easier to get in the water, easier to sell boat trips. I get that operators need to set themselves apart to attract business, but yeah, it's dangerous and needs to stop.

[@DiveBC]

As a captain and instructor here in Nanaimo BC we don't setup anyone's equipment for them. It sometimes is a problem when we have people that have only been diving mainly in areas that setup equipment for them as they don't know how to do it. I had a client on board earlier this year that had 50+ dives and had only setup their own gear "once" during the open water class. They were shocked that we don't setup gear.

[@lmlmd2714]

Seems to be a warm water thing. I've never seen it in the UK. Hell, around here having a kettle and tea bags on the boat is the height of luxury.... in the same country where water temps of 16c at the height of summer are considered decadently tropical. That said if a DM here refused to let a diver set up their own gear then they'd be the first one over the side.... sans gear.

[@heidi159]

Excellent advice! Thank you for this reminder and (what should be) common-sense caution. Its so refreshing to see safety-minded authorities and voices. Thank you!

[@JaccoJohansson]

I'm still a noob diver, just got done with my advanced course a few months ago and I totally agree with you. I always wanna set my own gear up to get more experience and have my own control over my gear, since I'm still a noob ofc I always have my dive master or dive buddy check me as well before the dive, which you should always do anyways. Setting the gear up myself gives me more confidence in my dive, I'd feel much more confident with gear I setup myself and tested before I go down

[@charlesdarr740]

I am a person with trust issues to start with so I am with you. Great topic!!!

[@AndrewR74]

Fresh out of the ow class, and the valet service over weighted my wife's bc by the tune of 16 lbs. She sank like a rock and it absolutely freaked her out. She called the dive, went back to the boat. Checked her weight and threw a minor fit at the captain of the boat. She removed the excess, and then had a much more enjoyable 2nd dive. She told me that she was so freaked out that she was ready to quit diving all together. There are places that we've since dived that it's impossible to set up the gear because of the size of the boat. I setup the 1st dive, but we have to pass all gear into the boat when we surface and the dm and captain switch tanks and position the gear before the diver's are allowed to get back into the boat. Do I like it, not really, but it is what it is.

[@stevenwallenda8698]

Absolutely! Already seeing people who always have it done for them and can’t do it themselves... or even grasp the ‘why’ of it all...

[@everist22]

I think there is, in practice, a distinction between vacation divers using hire gear and turning up for a dive with your own gear. I’m in Australia but mainly dive Bali - where we own a villa. Staff employment is their priority (ie don’t use a machine to do a no if it can employ 5pp). So on a boat we often have 1 DM per 2-3pp, captain & boat crew. Generally it’s their dive plan cause it’s their dive sites - their navigation, their highlight reefs etc. So - yes it’s ‘lazy’ diving. If your using your own gear - i agree it’s yours to set up, care for etc. Often sites are paid for by the dive operators - so their tends to be some ‘pre-existing’ planning -but an agreed dive plan and protocols should definitely be discussed and agreed upon. Diving in your own backyard - totally different story and involvement in gear, planning etc. But - i agree with your comments and think it’s a great discussion

[@iamblacktalon]

Good points, James. I trained and dive at places where I had to set my own gear up, and therefore had no experience with this “valet” service. Doubt I will be trusting enough to allow them to set up my kit though. Just a quick question, I dive with a long hose, double tank, bpw set up routinely. Do you think the valet people would know how to assemble this set up? Or are their services limited to the traditional rec set up only?

[@DiveCuracao]

Thanks again James for just saying what needs to be said. Well done!

[@luigipeccini6639]

You are always super clear, precise and your tips are super useful! In that specific topic I totally agree with you, I never let someone else (even my son, also a diver) touch my gear.

[@WFOtwitch2]

I 100% agree, I’m very new to diving, been to Cuba a few times to dive, and leaving for the Dominican Republic in 2 days, all my dives in Cuba the dive instructor offered to set my gear up (other then on training dives), I said I would prefer to set my own gear up, he was very respectful and understood, I was surprised people don’t do it themselves! I’m checking all my gear over as I set it up, especially when it’s rental gear on vacation.

[@omegadivingacademy7937]

Totally agree James..... in a number of Maldivian resorts the check out dive is mandatory and whether you are an instructor or course director you do a check out which starts at the kit room where everyone kits up. (like everything I suppose it is up to somebody actually doing something) The dive center manager (or senior staff) looms around watching as everyone kits up. Those that are sub par are redirected (quietly) to more supervision. In the keys I have had operators almost trying to put your wetsuit on for you and as you said half heartedly. I get it, in some small way, that covering butt due to liability leans toward this terrible activity taking place. Unfortunately as you have said many divers are holiday divers and have not seen their gear in months or years (the same problem exists with gear service) but since they are certified they just go diving and regard advise on refresher training as another money making option for the LDS. I do think the onus is on the diver to ensure that they are ready before a trip and on instructors to teach (on every course) that your gear is a lifeline not to be messed with at all unfortunately this is also not being done. By the way I have seen this in Europe as well this practice is not as new as some might think........ valet diving is just a term for it now.

[@marcvanheugten9472]

I think you killed it, tried a valet dive here where I need to walk 3km to the site and there was no-one willing to carry my kit... If shops need people setting up gear (out of distrust, because i havent done it in 25 years) the industry needs to rethink the standards of passing students a course. Good topic. Personally, when I rent gear and they assemble it, I take it apart and do it myself. I do not trust a DM in a rush to set up all the gear, and yes, I refuse leaking kits.

[@stevej5276]

Usually agree with you on most things but I don't agree 100% on this. I use a valet shop in Cozumel because I stay in cheap hotels w/o storage or rinse tanks. I always double check the setup and adjust to my liking as well as perform pre dive checks. Trust but verify. It is the divers responsibility to make sure everything is set up correctly.

[@stevegottenbass]

I'm a Tec diver. Valet diving is fine, just re-check what the guy has done, re-check the analyzer. What's the big deal? It's basically like a buddy checking your rig. Not sure what he's on about

[@chiensean]

Absolutely true that it’s getting serious in south east Asia. I’m ok if it’s just porters cos sometimes it’s really far from dc to boats but that should end just there. The rest should be our own responsibility.

[@MrErnestpreciado]

No one sets up or touches my valves but me. This has become much less of a discussion since I strictly started diving doubles. Even more so now that I've gone CCR

[@Dorff_Meister]

Sounds terrible. Honestly, I don't want anyone mucking with my dive gear other than myself. If step is missed, it's my fault. For the exact same reason we don't let valet's park our cars, either. If you aren't willing to take responsibility for setting up your gear, you shouldn't be diving. I'd say "if you manager isn't happy, please send him my way and I'll happily tell him why."

[@dolltiff]

Totally agree with you! I used to have some one to carry my tank to a place, easy for me to set up my stuff. The only time I did have someone who set up for me is I was seriously sea sick and I was sitting there watching the staff help me to set up, but at the end I still do the check by myself and adjust my equipment after I feel I can go for my next dive

[@abrahamtomahawk]

Though I really enjoy it, I rarely dive (it's very much a holiday treat for me), so I've not been for a few years (needing to get over myself and brave the cold waters of northern Scotland!). However, depending how long it has been, I like to do a refresher course at the start of each holiday. Even if I didn't do this and had a valet doing the stuff for me I'd want to watch and chat it through with them just for 1: wanting to keep my knowledge sharp and 2: knowing how it has all gone together gives me greater assurance and comfort in case of any issues. Do you think however, that if this becomes more the norm, that dive companies will be more inclined to make sure everything has been done in-house to avoid litigation if someone on their charter doesn't set-up their gear correctly and there's an accident?

[@Chogogo717]

I never liked people touching my tools when I was in a hangar, and I don’t like people touching my life support equipment. You definitely hit all the points on this.

[@marksaxby607]

I'm very particular about who touches my tools! 🤣

[@ronryder6707]

Apparently I am living a sheltered life. Virtually every boat I have been on has hauled the gear and effectively set it up ready to go. I did not know this was called "Valet" service. I would then proceed with my checks to my satisfaction and off we go. James of course makes the point well, we are ultimately all responsible for our own safety when we dive and otherwise.

[@jasonharris4349]

I am catching up on your videos so I'm a bit late but I have so many thoughts on this! I experienced once but as an instructor on vacation so I still doubled checked everything after. For me it was sort of a nice break from all the work of assisting new divers. However, it was so bizarre to me to arrive at the dive center to find my kit already rigged up (my own gear). I agree with your thoughts on the topic which is why I am glad that where I dive we make customers set up their kit even if it's rented. In fact this made me think of a practice I've personally adopted which is to set up my kit, check everything, then shut off the main valve and purge until my spg reads ~100bar. I have come back to find it at 200bar with main valve closed meaning someone touched my gear. I could have easily (foolishly) jumped in with a closed air source. At this point I start over, I check everything again to ensure there have been no problems introduced.

[@atleddierealty7493]

I was just in Grand Cayman leaving right now and they have valet service and it’s funny because the shop manager was saying yes we set up everything for you, but it was better back in the day when everybody set up their own stuff. But I actually set up my own gear because I brought all my own, most of the other people were renting. I love setting up my own gear gives me a sense of pride and ownership.

[@keeponwishin]

I’ve only been diving for a year, but I’ve been very active in the lakes and quarries near my home since completing my OW course, where I have to transport and set up my gear myself as well as dive/navigation planning with my buddy. Going to have my first experience with valet diving on a trip in less than a month. This may be my naivety showing, but if someone wants to handle, set up, and breakdown my kit, they can. Just don’t take offense when I check everything and make any alterations as necessary. I’m sure valet was originally designed as an occasional treat for dive resort vacationers on the assumption you actually handled and dove your own gear closer to home.

[@spacecol]

I recently experienced a situation where the dive master setup my equipment before I was allowed on the boat and when I went over my gear, I found the tank strap had not been latched tight before my first dive of the day. When I told the dive master what I found, he said "I passed the test" and smiled. Yah right.

[@timgosling6189]

I've seen this mostly at resorts where the majority of customers are using all rental gear. But if anything that's worse because if you're given unfamiliar equipment the best way to get to know it is to put it together and inspect/test as you go. Problem is, many of said customers are also those with little or infrequent experience, when it's even more important you get a close look at the kit before you get in the water. For me, I'm happy if someone has put my gear next to a couple of cylinders; the rest is always up to me and I politely decline any further help. Turning up with a wing and harness is always a plus as lamentably few DMs have seen one so they tend to leave it alone anyway. Totally agree your division of good service v too much.

[@skyking6989]

I never ever trust rental gear! I don't know how well it's maintained. I maintain my regulators and equipment religiously

[@jeffcook6562]

Great video! I saw a valet forget to switch tanks between dives. The diver did not even realize they were almost out of air until they had submerged! Why would anyone not check their own air before jumping off the boat?

[@ozjohnno]

As an ex skydiver, I get the whole 'pack your own parachute mentality and would never allow anyone to set up my own gear, analyze my tanks or turn my gas on. I usually dive 11L doubles (with a dodgy back) so having someone to carry my gear for me would be great !!

[@rob_9876]

If you have a good dive op then valet service is very nice. I always check my gear and analyze my own tanks. But yes, having them lug your gear on and off the boat, and clean it each day of a multi-day trip, is great. I've never seen a dive op tell anyone that they couldn't set up their own gear (that would be crazy). No, I'm not a vacation only diver and I'm very used to setting up my own gear. But on vacation it is great being able to leave the boat and go meet non-diving family/friends for lunch, etc. without having to lug dive gear back to the hotel first or leave it in a vehicle; and it's also just great not to have to schlep it back and forth each day. Honestly, U.S. dive ops should raise their game a bit to provide this type of service -- many seem to think they are above it.

[@javanpruett9235]

I have been diving for 46 years, now that I am older it's hard to carry 50lbs on my back so, to have the DM help me get into the water it's a huge help. I do check all of my equipment before I get into the water, but to have someone take care of helping me with the weight and then help me get out of the water. It is a blessing..

[@michaelwaegemans6802]

I open my own tank and assemble my gear. First time valet service. I opend my tank put it on my back in the boat. Did some other stuff like putting on fins. The guy 'opend' my tank. Effectivly closing it again. Tank god me and my mates noticed in the safetycheck

[@rapha9125]

thants something i hear over and over again. seems to be a real problem

[@mikeramsey9747]

This happened to me on a dive trip several years ago,

[@jimdreger4626]

Always take at least 3 full breaths of air before entering the water. If the valve is closed, you will know it.

[@arielgomiz]

Great and so necessary video! i worked for a season in greece and back there we used to set all gear for the divers carry to the boat and rinse after, not even once i had a diver saying "sorry, can i check my gear before?" everyone is so blind trusting, luckyly we were a few doing the work and everything was set correctly but it was strange that no one asked for checking. As an instructor myself i always tell my students to prepare and check their own. Occasionally can happen that for logistics reasons we set the equipment for them but i always make them check it, even sometimes i put someting the wrong way just to see if they are real checking or just going like robots.

[@amybradley5821]

Hate this trend. When I started diving the boat moored and one of the crew said “be back with 500 psi” and each pair jumped in. First time I was told we would dive with a DM I was shocked and insulted. Glad I learned way back.

[@ianbecker1]

Spot on, no way I would let someone else set up my gear for me. If it did happen I know I would end up redoing everything anyway.

[@onthehamsterwheel365]

Couldn’t agree more... I hate that boat-boys in Thailand always want to take over and interfere when I’m setting up and donning my gear. And yes, I’ve also heard that before; “if I don’t do it for you, I get into trouble” … well, that’s tough mate, but unless you are going to provide for my family when I die, then back off, please. Some boats I’ve been on were noisy, felt overcrowded and got a bit chaotic close to dive time. It was difficult enough to keep your head straight and concentrate as it is. Of course, I do appreciate help, when I ask for it… otherwise, let me run my routine and stop touching my stuff.

[@tonydixon65]

Hit the nail on the head James. I did a live aboard in Thailand with mainly Thai divers. The DM lengthened the straps to make it easy to put on. The lady after the dive complained that her BCD was too loose, she did not know she could pull the shoulder straps tight. When my daughter learned to dive the first thing I taught her was its your equipment, you rely on it for air, let no one touch your equipment. Also washing after a dive, she know s what needs rinsing and how & then goes straight into her dive bag. Keep up the good work

[@crazysharklady]

Every dive boat we've used has set up our gear for us over the years. 😑 (Never nitrox though - we just certified a few weeks ago...). We just came home from nine days on a live aboard to Revillagigedo Archipelago (Soccoro Islands) where we were expected to set up our own gear and analyze our own nitrox. I feel like I'm finally a diver! It made ALL the difference for me. Thanks for this video. Hopefully, dive boats and resorts will catch on and expect us to set up our own gear and analyze our nitrox. Your Good Service list was on point! I'll def let them handle those items! 😊

[@sketchwardd]

I just got certified. I WANT to set my own stuff up. I didn't pay for the classes and gear for someone else to do it, it was part of the expierence for me. Just help me out if i need it.

[@YouTube_user3333]

Same same. I totally agree.

[@SuperNmlzz]

Hey James, I totally agree. No one wouldn't get an advantage out of "oh, I'm at 30 meters my buddy is out of air and my gas for the alternative regulator isn't (fully or at all) turned on....but hey, it's not my fault...it was the divermaster...". I would never ever let somebody (not even my buddy) rinse my regulators, because if it's not your own...that little piece of water that get's into the first stage doesn't hurt you, because you doesn't need to dive with that first stage and you don't need to service it, if it corrodes... I'm in general the person, which cleans up his scuba gear (even after a pool-session)...maybe some people are laughing right now...but did you notice, how much dirt and textile-shit is swimming in a pool? the next time I dive, I want to have that great feeling of fresh washed equipment and proper serviced gear. It just makes me feel better. I think this is all about good habits. If you don't clean your equipment on a regular basis (maybe only after a salt-water-dive), then you probably never do it...and some day an o-ring will blow up because it's completely hard and breaks. So if somebody gives away this care to safety and equipment, someday he will pay for it - with money or with his life. And it's not important, why you probably die and whose fault it is - because you aren't the one who will have to think about it :) Thank you for sharing your experience with all of us! All the best Jan PS: I have maybe to add, that I'm far away from such a service, because I'm mostly diving in solitary cold-water in Germany and Poland, so there is no "Valet-Service" and the divers you're going with will call you crazy (and deny) if you ask them to set-up your gear in therms of "If you can't set it up, don't go diving here". Of course, this doesn't include carrying heavy things like tanks, but also here it's about community. I would also help carrying equipment for a stranger if he asks me.

[@beschler7207]

I agree, James. I like to carry my own stuff and set up my own gear for both of the reasons that you mentioned. Can't be too familiar with your own rig. But, I think that some dive operations go to the valet model not for the benefit of the diver/customer, but because it's easier for the staff. Specifically, the divemaster is sure that everyone's rig is good to go, heading off problems before they hit the water and that they don't have to hold up the group waiting for someone to get set up. Also, I get the impression that dive operations are often operating on a tighter schedule than the diver on the boat realizes. To the credit of most dive operations, the staff will generally put out a laid back vibe but they really have some continuous concerns about getting back to the dock on time so that the operation runs smoothly. Some operations will lay off the valet routine if you express a preference, with others it is clearly a policy that they feel helps them run more efficiently. I am glad you aired this topic out.

[@kirbymcd1]

Holy legal liability Batman... I'm not sure how well a liability waiver would hold up if the driver wasn't permitted to setup or check their own gear.

[@edwintanjuaquiob1102]

Very good points!!! Always making me a better diver... best thing is after the last day dive when getting into a resort hang around the lockers and ask the questions...ie where is the nitros tester....

[@DmytroShcherbakov]

I faced it in Caribbean but didn't know it was called "valet diving", they said - we will prepare boat, gear, wetsuit, snacks etc. I'm like - maybe you guys will dive for me too?

[@marioschmitt4435]

Holy smoke. I would freak out if someone, DM or not, manipulates my dive gear... So I am absolutely with you.

[@dclangst]

I had one grab my inflator in the water and start letting air out while at a safety stop. I was neutral just hanging out. He decided of his own accord that the air in my wing was unbalanced. I gave him the business when we got back on the boat. He acted like he was punishing me by having me change my own gear over after that. I wouldn’t have trusted him to carry my fins much less assemble my gear.

[@dianal.1279]

I don't dive much and here is what I do: I've got in my phone videos of assembling of the gear and basic dive instruction, like how to clear masks, hand signals, etc. I watch the videos a few times before my first dive. I also have my books for checking out stuff again, just in case I've forgotten. It works.

[@jeffreyjones3367]

Kinda funny but brutally honest. Great video. Nobody's touching my equipment without my assistance

[@seanbecker8114]

Completely agree, i experienced it once, seriously though dont touch my gear

[@mayanbluxplorer4668]

This is a great topic. From my experience in the Caribbean, Iv'e met loads of "divers" who STRUGGLE with gear set up, but they still wanna dive. And you have the other crowd, that just expect to have this service. Rarely you see divers wanting to set up own gear. I agree with you 100%

[@Grayto]

This is particularly an issue with diving, where many of us dive only as a vacation maybe once a year and don't have our own equipment: I find having everyone do your equipment for you doesn't allow you to acquire the familiarity or practice with handling or checking the equipment. Obviously, it nurtures a mentality that nothing on the dive is your responsibility: if you get babied above the water, youre going to feel like a baby under the water and expect others to act for you or others in potentially dangerous situations. I've been on dives where I wasn't able to touch my equipment until literally right before the dive; that doesnt seem right at all!

[@hogslayer911]

I 100% agree with you. First time I dove with nitrox was with a valet style diving place and I asked about analyzing the tank the tank a few times and they told me not to worry about it and when we got to the boat they already had the numbers written on the tanks. Had to ask again before leaving the dock about it and thankfully the dive master ran back and got a analyzer for me to check my own tanks

[@andrecandrade]

Complete agree, James. I've been to a few resorts and I do not allow anyone setting up my gear. One thing that worked well was arriving for the morning dive and my gear was ready to go. I disassembled everything and did it myself. That did the trick for the other days.

[@ralphschiefer7576]

I totally agree with James. But I have to say that I usually dive in the asia regions specifcally Malledives, I was in Palau ones but there this Problem does not exist, at least for us Europeans. A different storry for the Chineese people. I was shocked when you said that people let others analyse theire Nitrox? You have to put the correct numbers in your computer right? Or do those people think that these are guesses? I mean this is serious stuff? I ones mesiured an O2 of 34%. The dive shop said that they usually give 32% into theire botteles, you had to choose your bottele in the evenings write your numbers down and place the bottel to your gear which then apeared on the boat next morning. When I arrived at the boad the divemaster asked me, in front of everybody to analyse the bottel again and wonders over wonders it was 32%, They took this that serious that they explained the whole procedure of analysing to the whole boat again! Long story short, there are things like analysing and bodychecking, and assmbling your gear which you have to do by your own. I also have to say that I do want to maintain my gear by my own, meaning freshwater clieaning and stuff like this! It's part of the diving experience standing around all the other divers and cleaning your gear and talk about what you have seen on the dives and what you might have missed!

[@buslu]

Ralph, there are very good reasons to analyse again. If you just filled up your tank, the existing and new gas may not have truly mixed or the tanks (bottles) might have mixed overnight. Or someone might have added something else on top accidentally. It is a good habit to analyse it before you put on your regulators.

[@Sombre____]

Imagine, they attribute you a diving buddy who use a valet diving and don't know checking his own gear. Looks like a nest of a lot of problems underwater. What a nightmare !

[@ChattahoocheeRiverRat]

Bottom line up front: I'm with the folks who say that a dive operating taking care of the schlepping is OK, but a diver should be able and willing to set up and check their own equipment. Some observations.... I started hearing about dive operations where "you don't have to handle your own gear" in the late 80s. Early 90s, a speaker at a dive safety seminar spoke of dive operations where the DM sets up the customer's gear. They did this because so many customers didn't know how to set up their gear and do a pre-dive check. That is scary. I'm an OWI, though inactive for some time. It scares me that there are divers who don't want to deal with their own equipment. Our instructional materials stated that "diving is an equipment intensive sport". I emphasized this to my students, because our equipment allows us to exist in an environment that the human body isn't designed for. I likened divers to astronauts in that respect, as compared to hunters or skiers. Take away the hunter's or skier's equipment, and they can still live in the environment. Taking care of your equipment so it can take care of you is a critical skill set.

[@MCLuviin]

Scuse me??? Check my nitrox? The SINGLE ONE THING they teach you is to check your own nitrox always😂😂😂

[@eugeniocuadradoalbite6706]

Forced on me once. It was a dissaster. Worst dive ever (includind rental gear malfunction). I totally agree with you

[@papats_adventures2326]

Great video. I agree a thousand percent setting up my gear is part of mental preparation for every dive. The divemaster is welcome to due a buddy check before I get in the water.

[@bruceo4973]

DM is welcome to watch me do a buddy check with my buddy, and then provide feedback on how we did it. I often see DMs ask, "did you guys do a buddy check, show me."

[@olafs7022]

I dive in Colombia and there are different levels of this. Some set everything up and others don’t. The one I dive with the most will do efecty thing if you let them but they are happy to let you help. On my last dive I dove with an operator I hadn’t been out with before. They didn’t say anything when I set up my own gear for dive #1 but on the service interval they insisted that I let them do it (no I didn’t do anything wrong the 1st time). I ignored the captain because I don’t like people touching my gear (I always take my own) but he insisted. Got into the water and right away I noticed that the tank was too low. Will never again let them touch my shit.

[@julyawalsh7940]

Absolutely James! I totally dislike and distrust valet diving. It’s my life and kit so I’ll look after it. I had an experience though where I went to Turkey to dive with a company I trust implicitly and have used for nearly 25 years to find that staff responsibilities had changed. This meant that a DM who had always been lovely had become controlling, maybe because of his new responsibilities who knows, and he insisted that the boat staff had to change my tank for the 2nd dive, something I’d always done myself before. When I argued hE said it was his job although the boat doesn’t offer valet service. I was made to feel I was being difficult and in the end allowed it to happen at the end of the week because the owners are friends and I didn’t want to cause problems. It almost stopped me diving with them, that’s how strongly I feel about it!

[@JAleksandr]

Valet diving can break/alter routine which can cause things missed or screwed up!! I’m too OCD ANY break in routine causes me to COMPLETELY start setup and checks over otherwise I can’t stop thinking about EVERY little detail.

[@Raybrienza]

I love this video.... I think you make some excellent points. I tell the DM's and instructors leave my gear alone. I like it set up my way. I teach my students to set up and double check their gear correctly. (Yes, some are lazy and dont). I also remind my students that if they can not remember to how to set up their equipment - what else have they forgotten? On the Drugs and alcohol items - I quit teaching with a few instructors that were doing drugs with and around students. I for the life of me, I have no idea why the dive shop owner tolerated it. as he was a recovering addict. I have seen to many things in my 37+ years of teaching. In Denver Colorado, USA

[@joewelsh1804]

Completely agree with you James. NO-ONE touches my gear, except me. Don't even want my buddy setting it up. Buddy checks - fine. Setting up - no chance.