How to Dive From a Skiff

A skiff is an easily-maneuvered small boat used for scuba diving when a larger boat would not be able to access an area. The advantage of skiff diving is that divers do not need to worry about getting back to where they started: a person in the skiff can pick them up when they surface, making for longer dive times.

Things You'll Need

  • Dive flags
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine who is going to man the skiff while the divers are in the water. The person manning the boat must watch as divers rise to the surface, pick them up, help them climb into the skiff and assist in removing equipment.

    • 2

      Place masks, fins, gloves and other small equipment in a dive bag with your name on it so it is easy to find once you reach the diving area.

    • 3

      Raise a dive flag once you reach the diving area.

    • 4

      Put on equipment including tanks, buoyancy control devices, regulators and a mask while still in the skiff. If others are diving before you, help them put on their equipment.

    • 5

      Exit the boat. Each skiff will require different methods. In some boats the diver will be able to step off the back of the boat into the water. Others will require the diver to fall backwards into the water while holding his mask and respirator in place.

    • 6

      Come to the surface when your dive is complete. Wait for the person in the skiff to come and get you.

    • 7

      Remove your buoyancy control device and hand it to the person in the boat prior to exiting the water.

    • 8

      Use a ladder on the boat or pull yourself up and over the side of the boat with the help of people in the skiff.