Tipping the dive instructor?

[adjuster-jd]

I will have my classroom and pool instruction this weekend. As it turns out, they were going to cancel the class since I was the only one who signed up. Since I couldn't go to next month's class, and thus would not get to complete my certification before going to Maui, they agreed to conduct the class one-on-one.

My question is, when the class is done, should I tip the instructor? If I were on Maui (and in tourist mode), I would likely tip a dive instructor just like I would tip a boat crew, etc.

Last year when I did an intro dive on Maui (one on one since my wife chickened out), I did tip the instructor and she appreciated it.

What is the protocol / expectation for a local confined water class? I of course don't want to offend the instructor if a tip is not proper, nor do I want to not tip if one is expected.

Any advice would be appreciated.
ut:

 

[The Chairman]

is always a reason to be tipped!!! I have had a few tips (although I pretty much do this for free) which are always appreciated. However, I appreciate the dinners after the dive most. Relaxed time with the student is always cool!

 

[seadog]

agree with Pete. Sounds like they are going the extra mile for you, so a tip couldn't hurt.

 

[LUBOLD8431]

Ok, so, I am a little biased...

But, I would say that the guy deserves a tip... What I learned in life so far, Is that you should tip for GOOD service...

Sounds like you are getting GREAT service... go ahead and give him a little sumthin sumthin....

 

[jbd]

sounds like a tip or something like a dinner is appropriate.

 

[adjuster-jd]

Allright, sounds like a tip would be appropriate, which is fine with me. These folks are going out of their way for me and I certainly want to show my appreciation (I'll likely be buying some equipment from them too).

So how much is appropriate? The class is costing me $250, if that helps at all...

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[Northeastwrecks]

That's a great deal for a private sessions. My LDS charges $500.00. Kncking some off because its only the pool session still makes it a good deal.

Personally, I might go with a gift certificate to a restaurant in an amount sufficient for two people to have a nice meal and bottle of wine, especially if you are pleased with the quality of instruction.

 

[jbd]

opinion. I think something between 10 % & 20 % would be fair.

I like NortheastWrecks suggestion also.

 

[ColdH20diving]

In your situation I would....

 

[Arnaud]

It seems to me a gift card or a free meal is more appropriate. If you get along with your instructor, and enjoy his/her teaching, you may continue your education with him/her, he/she may even become a friend. A personalized contribution will say a lot more than handing out a $20 bill...