Divemaster Training
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
Age minimum: 18 years
Extended Professional Diving training
Unlimited Diving
Most Equipment Included
Have logged 40 open-water dives
EFR and Rescue Diver
Duration 35 -45 hrs.
Dive Professional Programs
I. Intent The SSI Dive Guide program provides candidates with the knowledge and training necessary to supervise and guide certified divers on recreational scuba dives.
Note: Upon completion of the Dive Guide program, candidates may receive a professional or non-professional certification.
II. Minimum Instructor Rating An active status Dive Guide Instructor may conduct the Dive Guide program.
III. Candidate Prerequisites
• Minimum age: 15 years old (Must be 18 years old to be certified as an active status Professional Dive Guide).
• Have logged at least 40 open water dives totaling 25 hours or more. Have the following SSI certifications or equivalent from a recognized training agency:
• Diver Stress & Rescue Have the following SSI certifications, an equivalent from a recognized training agency, or provide proof of experience by showing at least five (5) logged experience dives in each of the following areas:
• Deep Diving | Deeper than 100 feet
• Navigation
• Night & Limited Visibility
Note: The candidate is not required to be certified in the applicable specialty if they provide proof of the experience dives and the instructor can verify the candidate’s ability to exhibit mastery of the skills required by the specialty. Recommendation: SSI recommends all SSI Dive Professional candidates become certified in Enriched Air Nitrox 40.
IV. Duration
• Recommended hours for completion: 35-45.
• The number of classes, hours and sessions per day are set by the individual instructor, based on the candidate’s needs, ability and local water conditions.
V. Depth Limitations
• Minimum open water depth limit: 15 feet.
• Maximum open water depth limit: 130 feet.
VI. Minimum Supervision
• An active status SSI Dive Guide Instructor must directly supervise all academic, pool/confined water, and open water activities.
VII. Requirements For Completion
• Log at least 50 open water dives totaling 32 hours or more.
• Pass all requirements and evaluations listed in the instructor manual for Dive Guide.
• Complete the Candidate Water Fitness Evaluation as outlined in the SSI Training Standards.
• Complete the program’s final exam.
• Complete at least two (2) open water training dives as outlined in the instructor manual for Dive Guide.
VIII. Certification 131 © SSI International GmbH, 2023
• Upon completion of this program, candidates receive the Dive Guide rating.
• Upon completion of training, upload the candidate’s training record with all required documentation into the MySSI System or send it to the responsible SSI Service Center.
• Dive Guides can dive autonomously with a group of certified divers in a non-commercial capacity, in environments and to a depth equivalent with their training.
IX. Active Status Qualifications Dive Guides may guide certified divers on recreational scuba dives. Active status Professional Dive Guides may also:
• Teach, supervise and issue recognition cards for the SSI Snorkel Diver program.
• Qualify for the SSI Divemaster rating after completing the SSI Science of Diving Specialty program. Dive Guides Must Not:
• Conduct, teach or assist in any SSI training programs for non-certified divers.
BECOMING A DIVEMASTER…
Being a Scuba Divemaster is an exhilarating and rewarding experience that allows you to explore the fascinating underwater world while assisting and guiding other divers. As a Scuba Divemaster, you are a crucial part of the diving community, serving as a mentor, leader, and ambassador for the ocean.
One of the primary responsibilities of a Scuba Divemaster is ensuring the safety and well-being of divers. You possess an extensive knowledge of dive theory, including physics, physiology, equipment, and dive planning. This knowledge allows you to conduct pre-dive briefings, explaining dive site conditions, safety procedures, and any potential hazards. During the dive, you are constantly vigilant, monitoring the divers' activities, and ready to intervene or assist when necessary.
As a Divemaster, you have exceptional underwater skills. You are proficient in various diving techniques, such as buoyancy control, navigation, and rescue procedures. Your ability to demonstrate these skills with precision and ease inspires confidence in less-experienced divers and sets a positive example for safe diving practices.
Communication is paramount in this role. You effectively communicate with divers both above and below the water, using hand signals and underwater slates to convey important information. Your clear and concise instructions ensure that everyone understands the dive plan and objectives.
Furthermore, a Scuba Divemaster has a deep understanding and appreciation for marine life and ecosystems. You lead by example, demonstrating proper underwater behavior and respect for the environment. You educate divers about the importance of conservation, marine species, and the delicate balance of the underwater world. By sharing your knowledge and passion, you inspire others to become environmentally conscious divers and advocates for the ocean.
Being a Scuba Divemaster also involves logistical and organizational skills. You assist in dive center operations, including equipment maintenance, tank filling, and dive trip coordination. You help manage dive groups, organize schedules, and ensure smooth logistics for multiple dives and certifications.
However, being a Scuba Divemaster is not just about the technical aspects. It is a role that requires exceptional interpersonal skills. You must be patient, attentive, and adaptable to cater to the diverse needs and experience levels of divers. Your ability to connect with people from all walks of life, make them feel comfortable, and provide a memorable diving experience is invaluable.
Ultimately, being a Scuba Divemaster is an incredible adventure that combines your passion for the ocean with the opportunity to share it with others. It offers a chance to explore breathtaking underwater landscapes, encounters fascinating marine life, and create lasting memories for yourself and those you guide beneath the waves.
