For divers who want to turn their passion into a profession, the PADI Divemaster course is a logical goal. But is the Divemaster course worth it if you don’t plan to work in the dive industry?
That’s a good question. The answer depends on your interests and ambition.
- Are you interested in the science of scuba diving?
- Are you curious about what goes on behind the scenes at a dive shop?
- Do you want to be known as an elite diver?
The same way the Open Water Diver course transforms you from a normal human into an underwater adventurer, the PADI Divemaster course turns you from an average diver into an expert others admire and look up to.
That’s no exaggeration. I texted my best friend (who is not a diver) right after I earned my PADI Instructor certification.
Me: I’m an instructor now!
Best Friend: What happened? I thought you were a Divemaster?!?
#1 Become the Diver Everyone Admires
Think about the Divemasters you know. They can hover motionless above the reef when others are flailing. They know where to find interesting critters and easily find their way back to the boat or shore. You could be that diver.
#2 Deepen Your Understanding of the Underwater World
During the PADI Divemaster course, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the local environment — and not just the marine life. You’ll also learn how to assess a dive site, the factors that affect dive conditions and how dive sites change from day to night and throughout the year.
#3 Learn About the Dive Industry
Even if you don’t plan on starting a scuba career, it’s fun to go behind the scenes and learn how dive shops operate. Divemaster training also introduces you to the business of diving, where you’ll learn about scuba diving jobs you might not have considered.
#4 Go Beyond Recreational Training
If you take pride in being an expert on topics you care about, you’ll find the PADI Divemaster course very rewarding. You’ll learn about:
- Different types of scuba equipment and how it works
- How diving affects the body
- The history of scuba diving
You’ll also map a dive site and receive training that isn’t available to recreational divers.
#5 Greater Self-Confidence
In the article Are You Prepared for the Divemaster Course?, I wrote about how I didn’t want to sign up for the PADI Divemaster course because I wasn’t confident in my diving skills.
As it turns out, the Divemaster course was exactly what I needed. During the PADI Divemaster course, you practice core diving skills (such as hovering and navigating) over and over until they become second nature. Divemaster training also includes hands-on experience fixing basic gear problems and learning how to correct small problems before they become big issues.
By the end of the divemaster course, I was the confident diver I always wanted to be.
BONUS: It’s a Fun Gap Year Activity
If you have a gap year, or just some time off, the Divemaster course is a great way to spend a few weeks. Live and dive somewhere beautiful and meet people from other parts of the world who love diving too. The friendships and memories will stay with you long after your wetsuit dries.
Divemaster vs. Master Scuba Diver
The PADI Divemaster course is ideal for people who want to perfect their skills, gain confidence and become all-around scuba diving experts. But if you prefer to create your own path, Master Scuba Diver may be a better option. Watch the video below for an explanation of the difference between PADI Divemaster and PADI Master Scuba Diver.
Curious About What It Takes To Become a Divemaster?
Read about the PADI Divemaster course requirements or enroll in the free online course, Intro to Divemaster. The online program explains:
- What’s involved in becoming a PADI Divemaster
- What Divemasters can do
- The skills and knowledge necessary to become a PADI Divemaster
There’s no credit card required. It’s truly free.
Whether you take the Divemaster course for personal growth, a sense of achievement, or just the love of diving, becoming a PADI Divemaster is a milestone worth pursuing. Once certified, there’s no requirement to quit your job and move to a tropical island…but you could.
