1At a glance
- Primary Purpose
- Saltwater and debris removal from dive gear
- Typical Location
- Dive deck or dedicated gear area
- Water Source
- Freshwater (often desalinated)
- Common Usage
- Regulators, cameras, masks, computers, wetsuits
- Maintenance
- Regular water changes, cleaning of tank interior
- Materials
- Plastic, fiberglass, or stainless steel
- Size Variability
- From small tubs to large, multi-compartment troughs
2How rinse tanks are used
Rinse tanks are typically filled with fresh water and located in an easily accessible area on the dive deck. After a dive, divers will submerge their equipment in the tank to rinse off saltwater. It is common for liveaboards to provide separate rinse tanks for general dive gear (e.g., masks, regulators, computers) and highly sensitive equipment like underwater cameras and strobes, to prevent cross-contamination from sand or chemicals.
For optimal effectiveness, gear should be submerged and agitated gently to allow the fresh water to flush away salt crystals and debris. Regulators, in particular, should be rinsed with dust caps securely in place to prevent water ingress into the first stage. Wetsuits and BCDs are often rinsed under a freshwater shower or in larger dedicated bins rather than smaller rinse tanks due to their bulk.
The water in rinse tanks is usually changed frequently, sometimes after each dive or multiple times a day, to ensure its cleanliness and effectiveness. Crew members are typically responsible for maintaining the tanks, ensuring they remain fresh and free of excessive sand or organic matter. Divers are encouraged to be mindful of others and avoid introducing excessive sand or foreign objects into the tanks.
3Types of Rinsing Facilities
| Feature | Rinse Tank | Freshwater Shower | Individual Basin/Hose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Communal gear cleaning | Personal rinsing, large items | Private, direct rinsing |
| Water Volume | Large capacity (e.g., 50-200 litres / 13-53 US gallons) | Continuous flow on demand | Small volume, direct stream |
| Items Suited For | Regulators, masks, cameras, computers | Wetsuits, BCDs, hair/body | Delicate electronics, specific spots |
| Location | Dive deck, camera station | Dive deck, bathroom | Cabins, dedicated work areas |
| Hygiene Control | Regular water changes, dedicated tanks | Continuous fresh water | Personal control over water |
4What rinse tanks mean for your liveaboard trip
The availability and quality of rinse tanks on a liveaboard directly impact the maintenance of your dive gear and the overall comfort of your trip. Well-maintained, clearly designated rinse tanks (especially separate ones for cameras) signify a liveaboard's commitment to diver convenience and equipment care. This allows you to rinse your gear immediately after each dive, which is crucial during multi-day trips with frequent immersions.
Proper rinsing facilities help to preserve your investment in dive equipment. Saltwater can corrode metal components, degrade plastics, and cause build-up in delicate mechanisms. By diligently using rinse tanks, you extend the life of your regulators, BCDs, masks, and dive computers, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions or costly repairs.
For underwater photographers and videographers, dedicated camera rinse tanks are an absolute necessity. These tanks offer a clean, sand-free environment for rinsing sensitive camera housings and accessories, protecting them from damage. Liveaboards that cater to photographers often provide multiple camera-specific rinse tanks, sometimes with filtered water or air guns for drying, highlighting their understanding of these specialised needs.
5Considerations for Rinse Tank Use
| Aspect | Best Practice | Common Issue | Impact on Gear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regulators | Always ensure dust cap is on before rinsing. | Rinsing with dust cap off. | Water ingress, corrosion of first stage. |
| Cameras/Electronics | Use dedicated camera tanks only; rinse thoroughly. | Rinsing in general gear tank with sand/debris. | Scratched lenses, sand in seals, potential leaks. |
| Masks | Swirl gently to clean skirt and lens. | Throwing mask in, causing scratches. | Scratches on lens, reduced visibility. |
| Dive Computers | Rinse gently, paying attention to buttons. | Leaving unrinsed or submerged for too long. | Salt crystal build-up, button stickiness. |
| Wetsuits/BCDs | Rinse under shower or in large, separate bin. | Stuffing into small rinse tanks. | Ineffective rinsing, contamination of other gear. |
6Common misconceptions
Myth: Rinse tanks are always perfectly clean. Fact: While liveaboard crews strive to keep rinse tanks clean, they are communal. The water is changed regularly, but divers should still inspect the water quality before rinsing sensitive items, especially camera gear. Using a dedicated camera tank is always preferable.
Myth: You don't need to rinse your gear if you're diving again soon. Fact: Even if you have another dive scheduled in an hour, rinsing your gear, particularly regulators and cameras, is crucial. Saltwater begins its corrosive work immediately, and sand can dry and harden in seals or moving parts, causing damage on the next use.
Myth: Any freshwater will do for rinsing. Fact: While freshwater is essential, some liveaboards use desalinated water which can sometimes have trace impurities. For extremely sensitive camera equipment, some photographers prefer to use distilled water for the final rinse, although this is rarely practical for all gear.
Myth: It's okay to put sandy items directly into the rinse tank. Fact: Introducing excessive sand into a communal rinse tank contaminates the water for everyone else and can scratch sensitive gear. It's best to rinse off as much sand as possible with a hose or shower before placing items into the rinse tank, particularly if it's a camera tank.
FAQ
What is the primary purpose of a rinse tank on a liveaboard?
The primary purpose is to provide fresh water for divers to rinse saltwater, sand, and debris off their dive equipment after each dive. This helps prevent corrosion and prolongs the lifespan of expensive gear.
Why are there sometimes separate rinse tanks on a liveaboard?
Separate rinse tanks are often provided for general dive gear and highly sensitive items like underwater cameras and computers. This segregation prevents sand or other debris from general gear from scratching or damaging delicate camera equipment.
How often is the water in rinse tanks changed?
The frequency of water changes varies by liveaboard, but typically the water in rinse tanks is changed multiple times a day or after each dive sequence. This ensures the water remains clean and effective for rinsing.
Can I rinse my regulator in the rinse tank?
Yes, you can and should rinse your regulator in the rinse tank. However, it is crucial to ensure that the dust cap is securely in place on the first stage before submerging it to prevent water from entering the internal mechanism.
What should I avoid putting in a rinse tank?
Avoid putting excessively sandy items directly into the rinse tank without a pre-rinse, as this contaminates the water for others. Also, avoid putting bulky items like wetsuits or BCDs into smaller rinse tanks designed for masks and cameras; use a shower or larger designated bins instead.
Is rinsing enough, or do I need to clean my gear more thoroughly?
Rinsing is an essential daily step for immediate post-dive care. However, for long-term maintenance, especially after a trip, gear should undergo a more thorough cleaning, drying, and inspection. Regulators also require periodic professional servicing.