Liveaboard guide

Written by Charlotte Boan Thursday, 29 May 2008 00:00

Before that, he worked as a dive guide/instructor. It has been six years since he left hotel and bar work in the UK for a life of diving.

Salary range: Between US$60 and US$65 a day, plus tips. However, all your meals and accommodation are paid for and you really can’t spend anything on board!

Skills/qualifications needed: You must be a suitably qualified professional dive guide or instructor.

What the job involves: I find it less stressful than working on dayboats, as there is less of a rush and you can dive sites at fewer busy times of the day. You have to get guests out of bed and organise three or four dives each day for six consecutive days. The hours are long because you generally have to be the entertainment manager too, but it’s great fun.

Best part of the job: You get to dive where you want and when you want.

Worst part of the job: If people on the boat don’t get on. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does you often end up in the middle, trying to be the peacemaker.

Advice to jobseekers: Listen to the skipper and people who have been around for a long time – there are always things to learn. You need to have a healthy respect for the sea and for people who have been there longer than you. You also need to be physically fit.