SSI Divemaster

Start Your Dive Career with the SSI Divemaster Program.

Combine the SSI Dive Guide course with the Science of Diving specialty to earn the globally recognized SSI Divemaster rating. This is the perfect first step for those aiming to become dive instructors and build a professional career in scuba diving.

Begin Your Adventure as an SSI Divemaster

Becoming an SSI Divemaster is a significant and rewarding step in your scuba diving journey. As a certified SSI Divemaster, you can work with SSI Dive Centers around the world, guiding certified divers in a wide range of underwater environments and conditions. Upon successful completion of this comprehensive program, you will earn the respected SSI Divemaster certification—an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates your ability to lead dives with professionalism, confidence, and competence.

Leadership, Growth, and Ocean Stewardship

Congratulations on your decision to become an SSI Divemaster! This role is much more than just a title—it represents a commitment to excellence in scuba diving. As an SSI Divemaster, your mission is to guide, support, and inspire divers, while also developing your own knowledge, underwater skills, and leadership capabilities. You’ll be empowered to create meaningful experiences for others, turning ordinary dives into unforgettable adventures.

In this leadership position, you serve as a role model and ambassador for the underwater world. Your ability to safely plan and manage dive excursions allows others to enjoy the ocean with confidence, while your passion can help foster greater appreciation and respect for marine environments.

An Expanding Industry in Need of Leaders

The global recreational scuba diving industry is experiencing growth like never before. As more people discover the beauty of the ocean, there is a rising demand for trained and enthusiastic professionals who can safely lead dives and share their love for the underwater world. The SSI Divemaster certification opens doors to exciting employment opportunities at dive centers, resorts, and on liveaboards worldwide.

Whether you want to travel the world, work in a tropical paradise, or take the first step toward becoming an instructor, the SSI Divemaster program is your entry into a fulfilling and dynamic career in diving.

The First Step Toward Becoming an Instructor

The SSI Divemaster program is the foundational step in becoming an SSI Open Water Instructor. It is designed to be a fun, challenging, and in-depth learning experience that prepares you for leadership roles in the diving community. Throughout the program, you’ll be introduced to real-world scenarios where you will learn to make informed and intelligent decisions—an essential skill for anyone leading divers in open water.

You are encouraged to take an active role in your training. Ask questions, seek clarification, and work closely with your instructors. The program will refine your core dive skills and expand your theoretical knowledge, preparing you to become a confident and capable dive leader.

Terminology Clarification

For simplicity, the term “Divemaster” refers to individuals who hold active SSI Divemaster certification, regardless of whether they work professionally for an SSI Dive Center. The term “dive center” refers to any active-status SSI Dive Center, Dive Resort, Dive Boat, or Dive School.

Program Overview and Requirements

To begin the SSI Divemaster program, you must meet the following prerequisites:

• Minimum Age: 15 years (training) or 18 years (to earn active Divemaster status)

• Prerequisite Certifications: SSI Advanced Adventurer and Diver Stress & Rescue (or equivalent)

• Logged Dives: At least 40 logged dives to begin; 50 dives required for certification

• Experience Requirements: Certification or equivalent experience in Navigation, Night & Limited Visibility, and Deep Diving

The training includes:

• Academic Sessions: Varies depending on the student and instructor

• Confined Water Sessions: As needed to demonstrate mastery of key skills

• Open Water Dives: Minimum of 10 training dives, with a total of 50 dives required for certification

• Maximum Training Depth: 40 meters / 130 feet

• Suggested Program Duration: 35 to 45 hours

A Meaningful Step into Professional Diving

Earning your SSI Divemaster certification marks the beginning of a rewarding career path in diving. You’ll be qualified to guide certified divers, ensuring their safety while providing enriching dive experiences. Additionally, you’ll be well-positioned to continue your professional development through further leadership programs, such as the SSI Assistant Instructor or SSI Open Water Instructor programs.

Whether your goal is to travel, teach, or simply expand your dive capabilities, the SSI Divemaster program is your gateway to endless possibilities. Dive into leadership, explore the world beneath the surface, and help others discover the magic of the underwater world.