🛥️ Dive Boat Safety & Etiquette on Koh Chang – Rules to Prevent Accidents & Gear Loss

Many beginners are confronted with completely new situations on a dive boat in Koh Chang. But even experienced divers are not always “boat proof.” Waves, movement, limited space and equipment handling on a Koh Chang dive boat require awareness and discipline.

Good boat behavior prevents accidents, equipment loss and unnecessary stress.

✅ Our Top Dive Boat Rules

1️⃣ Bring Only What You Really Need

Space on a dive boat is limited. Take only essential personal items with you. The less clutter on board, the safer and more organized the environment is for everyone.

2️⃣ Always Expect Everything to Get Wet

A dive boat is not a dry environment. Splashing water, rain or waves can soak your belongings at any time. If you bring something, assume it will get wet.

3️⃣ Protect Personal Items Properly

If you bring valuables like phones, cameras or car keys:

• Use waterproof bags or dry bags
• Add extra protection (e.g. wrap your phone in a towel)
• Store items securely in a protected area

Better safe than sorry.

4️⃣ Never Leave Loose Items Unsecured

Sea conditions can change quickly. Unsecured items can slide across the deck, cause tripping hazards or fall overboard. Never leave phones, dive computers, sunglasses or cameras loose on benches or tables.

5️⃣ Never Lift Tanks Out of Their Holders While the Boat Is Moving

This is critical. Tanks are heavy and unstable during boat movement. Removing them while underway can cause serious injury. Always wait until the boat is stable and the crew gives instructions.

6️⃣ Assemble and Check Equipment in the Tank Holder

Always build and check your equipment while the tank is secured in its holder. Do not assemble gear on benches or loose tanks on deck. Questions about equipment logistics or what to bring? Our equipment FAQ has the details.

7️⃣ Keep Your Equipment Organized at Your Assigned Spot

Your dive spot is your workspace:

• Store mask, fins and accessories at your place
• After the dive, return to your position
• Secure your gear immediately

Keeping everything together prevents stress and saves time before the next dive. No one wants to search their equipment across the entire boat.

Prepare early — not five minutes before entry.
Set up and check your equipment well in advance — including a proper pre-dive safety check (BWRAF). Rushing at the last minute increases the risk of mistakes, forgotten checks and unnecessary stress for yourself and others.

Weight planning is part of preparation.
As a general guideline in Koh Chang, divers using standard recreational equipment with an aluminum tank and a 3mm shorty typically require around 5% of their body weight in lead. This is only a starting reference — proper buoyancy checks and instructor guidance always apply.

A calm and organized setup ensures a safe and professional dive preparation.

8️⃣ Respect Shared Space

A dive boat is a team environment. Keep walkways clear, avoid blocking ladders or exits, and support your buddy and fellow divers if needed.

9️⃣ Listen to the Crew and Dive Briefing

The crew knows the boat. The dive guide knows the conditions. Follow instructions carefully — especially regarding entry, exit and current.

🔟 Safety First – Always

Most boat accidents are preventable. Awareness, organization and responsibility protect you, other divers, the crew and your personal equipment. Carrying a surface marker buoy (SMB) is part of good safety practice.

Professional diving is not only about skills underwater — it starts with smart behavior on deck.

Why This Matters

At Chang Diving Center, we emphasize safety on our Koh Chang dive boat. Our vessel, the Pirm Udom Sub, is built for safety and comfort — read about our sustainable boat setup.

• ✔ Accident prevention
• ✔ Protection of personal belongings
• ✔ Professional standards
• ✔ Efficient dive preparation

A well-organized boat makes diving safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Booking in advance helps reduce stress and ensures a calmer day on the water.