SDI Divemaster
Develop the leadership skills, professional knowledge, and practical diving capability required to supervise certified divers and assist instructors with diver training activities
Duration
Typically several weeks to several months
Max Depth
40 metres / 130 feet
Level
Professional Leadership Training Programme
Next Step
Instructor Development Course (IDC)
Overview
The SDI Divemaster course develops the knowledge, leadership ability, professional attitude, and practical diving skills required to function as an active dive leader within the recreational diving industry.
This programme prepares candidates to:
- supervise certified divers,
- conduct approved Divemaster activities,
- assist instructors during diver training,
- manage diving operations,
- and serve as professional role models within the diving community.
Training focuses on:
- leadership,
- risk management,
- diver supervision,
- dive planning,
- problem solving,
- and professional conduct.
Graduates may:
- Assist an active SDI Instructor
- Supervise and conduct dives for certified divers
- Conduct specialised diving activities within their training
- Plan and execute emergency procedures appropriate to the environment
At N9BO℠, Divemaster training combines real-world operational experience with professional development, preparing candidates for leadership positions throughout the global diving industry.
Course Facts
- Course name: SDI Divemaster
- Level: Professional Leadership Training Programme
- Minimum prerequisites: Minimum age 18, Current First Response Adult and Child Emergency Care Provider certification (or equivalent), Oxygen Administration Provider certification (or equivalent), SDI Rescue Diver certification (or equivalent), SDI Advanced Adventure Diver (or equivalent), Advanced certification must include verifiable experience in Deep, Navigation, Night / Limited Visibility
- Ratio: Maximum of 8 students per instructor (small groups recommended for quality training)
- Configuration: mask, fins, snorkel, buoyancy control device (BCD), regulator system, scuba cylinder, alternate air source, weights, dive computer, surface signalling devices, and exposure protection appropriate to local conditions. Additional professional-level equipment may include slates, timing devices, navigation tools, site maps, and instructional materials
- Depth / environment: 40 metres / 130 feet, Performance- and scenario-based, Swimming pool, Confined water, Boat diving environments, Professional dive operations, Real-world diver supervision environments
- Format: Academic development + leadership workshops + practical assessments + diver supervision exercises + instructor-assistance activities + internship experience
- Duration: Typically several weeks to several months, Minimum 10 open water training dives during Divemaster training
What You’ll Learn
- Develop diver supervision, risk management, and operational planning skills
- Assist instructors during training programmes
- Conduct approved Divemaster-level activities
- Improve professionalism, leadership, and decision-making capability
- Build the foundation required for instructor development
Prerequisites
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Current First Response Adult and Child Emergency Care Provider certification (or equivalent).
- Current Oxygen Administration Provider certification (or equivalent).
- Certified as SDI Rescue Diver certification (or equivalent).
- SDI Advanced Adventure Diver (or equivalent).
- Advanced certification must include verifiable experience in Deep, Navigation, Night / Limited Visibility
- Minimum 40 logged dives to begin training.
- Minimum 60 logged dives for certification.
- Be medically fit for diving.
FAQ
An SDI Divemaster functions as a professional dive leader who supervises certified divers, assists instructors, and supports diving operations.
Yes.
Divemaster is the first professional leadership level within the SDI system.
Yes.
Rescue Diver certification or an equivalent certification is required before entering the Divemaster programme.
Divemaster candidates learn how to assist instructors and supervise divers, but do not independently teach certification courses.
Instructor teaching responsibilities are developed during Assistant Instructor and Instructor training.
Most candidates continue into:
- SDI Assistant Instructor
- SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Instructor
- Instructor Development Programmes
- professional diving careers
Ready to Become a Dive Professional?
Whether you want to work in the diving industry, lead certified divers, or begin your pathway toward becoming an instructor, our team will help you develop the leadership, professionalism, and operational competence required to succeed as an SDI Divemaster.
Go Pro with the SDI Instructor Development Course (IDC)
Expand your diving knowledge through internationally recognised SDI training programmes delivered by experienced course directors and instructor trainers at N9BO℠. Build confidence, aquatic awareness, and practical skills that support lifelong enjoyment of underwater activities.
