A divemaster is a certified scuba diver who guides other divers underwater. The divemaster is in charge of coordinating the other divers and overseeing the entire group. The majority of those working in this field have completed practical divemaster internships.
Scuba instruction, leading diving tours, salvage operations, and rescue diving are all common divemaster jobs. Salvage operations entail leading teams of scuba divers to recover lost cargo or equipment. Typically, rescue divers accompany other groups of divers and assist in the event of a problem or when someone is already in distress.
PADI and NUAI are the two most common certifications for divemasters. While there are some differences in terms of which skills are tested and when those tests are administered, the certifications are essentially the same. Employers around the world recognize both PADI and NAUI certifications. Other certifications are available, but they are not as well-known as PADI and NAUI. Before investing time in your internship, find out what certifications that employer accepts if you plan on working in a specific location or for a specific firm.
Whatever certification you choose, the cost will almost certainly be the next factor to consider. Many locations offer paid and partially paid divemaster internships. These internships provide extensive real-world experience as well as a stipend to help with travel and living costs. Other unpaid divemaster internships may include more extensive training or experience, free housing or subsidized travel, or a shorter internship period for the same certification. The decision to do a paid or unpaid internship should be based on your current financial situation and the goals you have for your internship.
Another way to get involved in divemaster internships is to volunteer. Volunteers in these programs receive free or discounted training and divemaster certification, and then spend a set amount of time volunteering with their new skills. Many of them collaborate with environmental scientists. If you are concerned about the environment, this may be an appealing option.
When choosing an internship, timing is an important factor to consider. If you’re still a student, a summer internship might be the best option for you. Traveling in the winter, when airfare is cheaper, may be more cost effective for those with a more flexible schedule. In tropical areas, seasonal changes are less noticeable, and divemaster internships are available all year.
Divemaster internships can be pursued for a variety of reasons. Professionals can use longer six-month internships, especially volunteer internships, as a career break. Students can participate in three or four month internships as a fun way to spend their summer vacation or to earn a valuable certification and begin a career as a divemaster.