TRAINING
Working with ‘Golden’ Divers by Margo Peyton , co-owner Kid’s Sea Camp, Columbia, SC
A S I HAVE NOW OFFICIALLY ENTERED my senior years – it's hard to believe – I'm grateful that most days I don't feel my age, but as I continue to dive and create dive vacations that cater to senior divers, its important to know what they need and want to continue to enjoy scuba diving as an enjoyable hobby. Many say, "Diving keeps the spirit young." Staying fit both mentally and physically is more important than ever as divers age. My husband Tom and I are now in the 60s club, and as we've been leading trips for the better part of 25 years, our demo- graphic of customers has drastically changed. The kids from 25 years ago who were learning to scuba dive with their parents who are now adults, some in their 30s like my own kids, and many of them are now having their own children. We're seeing three generations of divers,
and the question arises: What's keeping them diving? Here are several key points to consider for dive operators and industry professionals looking to engage and retain this vital group (based on interviews with the senior divers who continue to dive with me in their 70s and beyond). Senior divers bring wisdom, loyalty, and a deep passion for the ocean that can inspire younger generations. By catering to their evolving needs, dive shops, resorts, and operators can foster lifelong participation, create multi- generational experiences, and ensure the industry's growth. Below are best practices drawn directly from their feedback, designed to make diving accessible, enjoyable, and safe for seniors. 1.Valet Diving Services: Meet seniors at the door with personalized assistance. If they're interested in purchas- ing gear, recommend lighter travel BCDs, titanium reg- ulators, and leave the heavy brass systems for younger divers. Seniors want lightweight, easy-to-pack and travel-with gear that's comfortable and streamlined, such as hoseless regulator systems and light, easy-to-read com- puters. 2.No Gear Lugging: Older divers appreciate exceptional customer service, which means having their gear picked up, set up, and cared for before and after each dive. This includes changing gear between dives on boats offering multi-dive trips. They appreciate having their gear put on the boat, removed from the boat, rinsed and ready for the next day’s diving. This includes hanging wetsuits up for them, and having them hung and dry as well. 3.Easy, Calm Conditions with Attentive Dive Guides: Provide dive guides who pay attention to senior divers’ needs without singling them out for being a bit slower or needing extra time. Opt for drift diving, going with the current, and choosing sites with the best visibility. Dives that are less physically challenging and more re- laxing. Seniors that I talk with are not looking to be dive ninjas. They tell me they enjoy traveling and diving with me because they feel well cared for in these environ- ments, and their needs are considered in dive site choices. 4.Avoid Packed Boats: On the top of their list for ease,
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