Are you questioning your next certification level? Are you asking what happens after Rescue Diver or even after Advanced Open Water? Whether you want to develop your own skills or those of who are around you, the PADI Divemaster program is one that will enhance your diving experience, take your diving to the next level and start you on the course to becoming a PADI Professional.

Who Can Become a PADI Divemaster

It may seem like an odd question but it’s actually perfectly understandable to ask yourself if you are “Divemaster material”. If you’re questioning yourself then chances are you’re right for the role – cautious, concerned and taking it seriously.

Of course, being a Divemaster is a big responsibility but it’s also a lot of fun. If you love meeting new people, travelling to new places and have a thirst for adventure then taking your PADI Divemaster course will open up a whole range of opportunities.

A PADI Divemaster not only loves to dive but is passionate about sharing their love of diving with others. Showing your favourite dive sites to other divers is a real highlight and these divers will remember you and the dives for a lifetime.

There are some other requirements too – you’ll need to be at least 18 years old, a PADI Rescue Diverwith an Emergency First Response certificate dated within the last 24 months, 40 logged dives and a medical statement signed by a physician in the last 12 months.

What’s Involved?

The PADI Divemaster Course is an exciting, challenging and ultimately rewarding experience. Your relationship with your instructor is very different to what you will have experienced so far- they will be your mentor and they’ll be open to discussion, observation and … of course, learning.

The course is designed to give you the tools to be a leader and to take charge of diving activities independently as well as alongside other PADI Professionals. Throughout the course you’ll develop your skills through knowledge development sessions, water skills exercises, workshops and hands-on practical assessment. Your instructor will provide you with regular feedback and help you to develop at a pace which suits you.

Why?

After completing your PADI Divemaster Course you’ll feel a well-deserved sense of achievement, self-confidence, pride and success but there’s much more to it than that and it depends on how you’d personally like to use your certification. For some divers, giving up their current career and moving to a tropical island isn’t an option but that doesn’t mean that they can’t still be active Divemasters. Many Divemasters work on a part-time basis through their local PADI Dive Centre or club, some organise trips for groups which entitles them to discounted, and often, free travel and others prefer to continue to dive as they did prior to the course whilst enjoying their newly honed skills and abilities.

As a PADI Divemaster you’ll also be  in a position to model responsible marine diving practices and encourage others to do the same. You’ll be able to make a difference.

For others the PADI Divemaster certification is their ticket to a new career, leading divers, doing what they love and a stepping stone to becoming a fully-fledged PADI Instructor.

When?

There is no right or wrong time to start your PADI Divemaster training and now with so many learning options available it is easier than ever – gone are the days of needing to take a month off work for an internship, unless you want to. PADI eLlearning allows you to work through the theory components from home at your own pace and around your existing commitments. Practical sessions can often be completed over weekends in many areas, meaning a longer course overall but no time off work or away from home.

If on the other hand you are planning to start a new career and are ready to (literally) dive in then opt for an internship which will give you day in and day out experience of being part of a dive shop team. Internship lengths vary from region to region and dive center to dive center so it’s worth looking around to find one that suits your needs. Many dive centres are flexible and offer varying length programs.

What Next?

Decide where you’d like to take your program – either from home, close to home or even on the opposite side of the world and use the PADI Dive Store Locator to find dive centres in that area. Ask what is available but remember to explain your needs and requirements too. Once you have decided on your PADI Dive Centre get ready for an incredible experience!