I used to be one of those 'follow the leader' divers who only dived while on holidays. As someone has mentioned, these chartered dives need to cater for the least experience and if something happened, it would be on their heads. So in their eyes, it's the safest option. For me, it meant a relaxed dive which I enjoyed, rather than a potentially uncomfortable dive out of my depth (figuratively, not literally!).
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<DIV>Since finding a regular buddy and diving a bit with the same person, I have become much more comfortable in the water, and I have learnt heaps. We dive at various locations and although a leader is available if wanted, we dive on our own. And take turns to navigate. This has been a great learning curve for me as instead of following someone else, I've had to take responsibility for leading someone else. I have got us *sort of* lost on the odd occasion but nothing major
. And when that happens I can't really complain too much at the longer surface swim at the end!!!
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<DIV>Before, I used to expect the dive crew to help me with my gear. Now, I am surprised when they try to help me with my gear and it feels like royal treatment!!!</DIV>
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<DIV>IMO, if you want to learn, you need to take the step of diving without the guided tour all the time.</DIV>