lord khram
Contributor
I would agree with you on both accounts you mention, as a DMT should never lead alone. Especially if the dive group is led to believe the dive guide is a qualified DM. I have not seen this personally, but then again I never checked.
As for a DM conducting a course, that would be shameful. Even PADI assistant instructors are extremely limited. Again, not something I would expect in shops like Mermaid's especially as they have two Course Directors on staff. On which dive outfit did you see this occur?
You are also correct, as having so many people training on one boat is not for everyone. A large selection of OW students for example could put off some more experienced divers. Some newer divers like the extra supervision. It all depends what you are looking for. Even without students the option to dive in a smaller group is always afforded. As a certified diver you can elect to lead and go in first or last with a buddy.
My main point is some such as Penguin Tom claim bad experiences, luckily this is not the case for all. Having a nice larger boat, reliable and well filled tanks, good briefings and adequate safety kit are worth some extra students taking various courses. Thankfully such choice exist.
Great to have open conversation without trying to silence anyone.
Yes agreed here, As regard to a DMT leading, he is a certified diver and can legitimately be my buddy, but I feel I should be made aware of this at point of sale. But with regard to a DMT leading a large group of divers this is definitely not acceptable in my mind.
And generally speaking if I go to dive with an experienced buddy I would elect to dive on our own without the restrictions of a group situation following one leader.
With regard to a DM doing courses I saw this at Dive South East Asia (of course in Pattaya) on several occasions. I dont have a problem with this everyone has to learn, a good DM should be quite capable of doing some tuition. But when the supervising instructor is not even on the boat, let alone supervising the underwater activities, it is not acceptable.
And yes agreed on your last point, nice to be able to discuss things even when our opinions and experiences differ, this is how we all can learn from others experiences both good and bad. Too many seem unable to deal with opinions that differ to their own.