March 2026 Scuba Diving Industry™ Magazine

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An Example of Concierge Diving Amber Wagenknecht, Executive Editor, shares an example of ‘delivering extraordinary service’ on a recent dive in St. Croix. Delivering extraordinary service isn’t always flashy; sometimes it’s the quiet removal of friction before you even notice it’s there. I experienced that kind of “concierge diving” from the moment I walked into the shop. It started with a personalized gear fitting - patient, attentive, and tailored to how I move and what feels natural. Before I could think about logistics, the team had already thought them through. They carried my gear to the boat, and the guide set everything up with practiced precision. What stood out most was their commitment to making the dive as easy as possible on the diver. When I tried to help, the response was immediate and kind: “No, no - we want the dive to be the easiest on the diver.” That mindset showed up again between dives, when they smoothly swapped in a fresh tank and reset my kit for the second drop, without me needing to ask. The divemaster was exceptional - calm authority, clear in- struction, and the rare ability to point out incredible underwater sights and wildlife that I would have missed entirely. Even the boat design reflected service thinking: divers sat comfortably along the back while the dive master brought each person their tank and BCD, so no one had to shuffle across the deck weighed down by heavy gear. All I had to do was stand, take a breath, and step into the water. Meanwhile, a second divemaster collaborated seamlessly, communicating throughout while supporting another diver working toward an advanced certification. It felt like a team operating at a high standard - anticipating needs, reducing risk, and creating an experience that was both effortless and unforgettable. A special thanks to Captain Joe, Divemasters Brian and Todd, diving with Ed and Molly Buckley, St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures (Feb. 2026).

Amber, Dan & Cagla, Concierge Diving in the USVI

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