Gratuity on dive boats

[tbrown]

Hey Dano, I think wether or not the DM dives with the group or not varies by location. Most of my boat dives have been lead by a DM, but I beleive in the Keys and other locations, this is the exception rather than the rule. I guess you'll just have to ask ahead of time. As far as gratuity goes, I usually tip 10%. I think the DM and captain split it, and I have always been thanked. If the DM really went out of there way above and beyond the call of duty, I add more. Lets face it, if a guy/gal helps you get a shot of a spotted Eagle Ray, that's gotta count for something! A friend gave me this idea and believe me this works great. Most warm water vaction locales, I bring my own batteries because in some places they are so expensive. After a night dive, or shooting some film, I always put in new. If you give your DM the old ones, they are just happy as can be. I actually had I guy ask me 2 or 3 times if I was sure he could have them. Anyway, have a good trip and we all expect a detailed report.