Man, this brought people out of the woodwork.
I will do my best to answer your questions.
Stinggirl...I do not know you. In answer to your question, I recommend getting experience by diving to your level of experience, then once comfortable at that level continue to take additional scuba related classed (once again, no solicitation implied) and dont sign up for dives you are not qualified for. My question is, why do you feel this was personal? Possibly consider a permanent dive partner that understands your needs so if you aren't paying a DM.
It's too bad that so many were offended by what I said. I said what I did for your own benefit. When we go diving, we are going for fun. (unless otherwise designated) We have enough of our own gear to haul around back and forth up and down for those divers that feel the other divers are only there for their own pack-mule purposes.
My reference to the assistance of a DM was for inexperienced divers who "NEED" assistance.
I will ignore the name calling and un-necessary remarks. I posted this for the benefit of those who do not want to spend their well earned money on a charter only to find themselves being an unpaid assistant.
An extended courtesy to your buddy or friend is one thing...someone going on the dive assuming others on the boat are there for their own convenience is another.
I have and will continue to carry my own gear. I have been and will always be, 5'2" tall. I will not assume my buddy or anyone else is on the boat for my own personal valet. I also teach those standards. If the experienced divers who found offence at me posting this, I'm sorry you feel the way you do.
Being a 'newby' is not an excuse. Were you not required to carry your own gear, assemble, disassemble ..etc while in class? If you are a newby this should be fresh information.
The organization I work is irrelevant. I would hope all organizations teach independency regarding the aforementioned. If they aren't..no wonder there are so many needy divers.
Yes, rescue yourself. If you don't understand...I'm not saying a word.
The term licensed was used in error. I stand corrected...certified.
Many of you are very willing to throw stones. I posted this as a comment, an observation and for those who may need an eye opener, just that. If you find yourself angry, possibly you should evaluate why you are...are you one who expects it? If you are one who allows it...hey, ya'll pair up!
I do carry my buddies gear out of courtesy quite frequently. I do this not because they expect it...insist on it or depend on it. I do this because I am nice...contrary to your assumptions. They do the same for me. I think most of you dont understand what I mean about doing this out of friendship vs. expectancy.
Like someone said.....if the shoe fits.
