My view is that tips should be given for exceptional service - not just doing the standard job required by the boat operator. If all I get from a boat is transportation to the site and a briefing about the dive site, that is to be expected as part of the charter fee. However, if the DM gets in the water, shows me things I wouldnt otherwise have noticed, debriefs after the dive to review things we saw, helps with any equipment issues which may arise, interacts with the passengers before and after the dives and makes everyone feel at home and helps customers get maximum enjoyment from the dives - then this would warrant a tip.
A tip should not be expected just for the DM showing up on the boat and setting the anchor... After all, a tip is supposed to be a gratuity, not an expectation.
I do think it would be helpful if boats that don't pay their DMs would post something saying that DMs work for tips only. While again, tips should be a gratuity, at least customers know that they are essentially getting volunteer help..
A tip should not be expected just for the DM showing up on the boat and setting the anchor... After all, a tip is supposed to be a gratuity, not an expectation.
I do think it would be helpful if boats that don't pay their DMs would post something saying that DMs work for tips only. While again, tips should be a gratuity, at least customers know that they are essentially getting volunteer help..