Choosing a Divemaster program or internship can be a daunting experience with the number of choices out there. The options might also not all fit you depending on what your goals are. Let's look at a few things that can help you pick a Divemaster program:
Where is it?
Depending on your dive experience, you might already have some preferences when it comes to diving. Warm or cold water, wrecks, beach or boat entries, macro or pelagics, etc. Try to narrow your selection of areas to a handful of places that you think you will enjoy. Also, factor in the cost to travel there and stay there for the duration of your course.
Why do I want to do my Divemaster course?
Do you want to increase your experience and do a lot of dives for a good price? Or do you plan on working in the dive industry or maybe even becoming a dive instructor straight away? Your plan should also help you orientate your search. If you want to work, maybe choose a location you would enjoy working in. Also consider their training standards and reputation, or even the level of experience of the instructors you will learn from.
Reputation is key
Would you learn how to drive from a driving school that ignores road rules? Probably not. Learning how to be a good dive professional is the same. There are many factors that make dive professionals stand out of the crowd and you want to be hanging out with them. Check out again their reviews. If you can, also pay them a visit or give them a call so you can get all the information that you need and a sense of what the dive center stands for.
Any review or indication that the courses are not taught to standards (no matter what the organisation is) should be a red flag.
Cost VS value
This is a difficult equation, but in diving the cheapest option might not be the best. Assess the costs of the programs you are looking for compared to their value. How many dives will I get? Is there any extra workshop or certifications included? It might be worth paying a little bit more to get into the program that seems the most valuable or the best fit for you?
Butterflies?
This is highly subjective but with a bit of research and some contacts with various dive centers, you will likely have a favorite. It may be for various reasons, even because you like their name or the photos on their website. And that's fine, sometimes going with your gut is a good choice!
Before doing so, just make sure they tick all your other boxes!
Ready to become a PADI Divemaster? We'd love to chat, so feel free to get in touch!
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