Learn to think like a dive leader
Divemaster training develops more than your ability to dive well. You'll begin learning how to supervise diving activities, assist instructors, organize dive operations, brief certified divers and become a dependable role model in the water.
From experienced diver to dive professional
Divemaster training combines independent study, skill development and practical experience within BPDC's normal dive-center operation.
Dive Theory & Development
Strengthen your understanding of diving principles, planning, supervision and professional responsibilities.
Water Skills & Demonstrations
Refine your own diving ability and develop the level of control and skill demonstration expected of a dive professional.
Assist With Courses
Work alongside instructors and observe how student training, dive preparation and in-water supervision are managed.
Supervise Certified Divers
Develop the communication, awareness and leadership skills needed when working with certified divers.
Briefings & Dive-Site Setup
Learn how dive activities are prepared, organized and explained before guests enter the water.
Projects & Practical Evaluations
Complete required practical assignments, mapping work and assessments as your professional skills develop.
Professional training happens around real operations
Divemaster candidates train alongside BPDC's regular diving operation, gaining exposure to how trips, guests, equipment, boats and training activities come together.
40 dives to begin. 60 dives to certify.
Your logged-dive experience matters at both the beginning and end of the Divemaster program.
You need at least 40 documented logged dives before beginning Divemaster training.
You must have at least 60 documented logged dives before earning your Divemaster certification.
Divemaster prerequisites
Divemaster candidates must be at least 18 years old.
You must hold a PADI Rescue Diver certification or an equivalent recognized rescue-level certification.
CPR and First Aid training must have been completed within the previous 24 months.
A medical statement signed by a physician must be current within the previous 12 months.
At least 40 logged dives are required before training begins.
At least 60 logged dives are required before certification can be completed.
Complete Emergency First Response with BPDC.
If your qualifying CPR and First Aid training is older than 24 months, you can complete BPDC's Emergency First Response course before starting Divemaster training.
Plan for approximately 3–4 weeks
Divemaster is not run like a fixed three-day recreational course. Your schedule develops around BPDC operations, training requirements and your individual progress.
A flexible professional-training schedule
Expect a combination of independent study, instructor review, water sessions, practical assignments and experience alongside BPDC's day-to-day dive operation.
Progress varies by candidate, so training is evaluated by completion of course requirements rather than simply counting calendar days.
Choose your Divemaster dates carefully
BPDC recommends planning Divemaster training well in advance and, when possible, scheduling outside November 20 through January 4.
Dive-center operations are especially busy during this period. Scheduling your 3–4 week program outside those dates generally provides a better environment for focused professional training.
Your own gear is encouraged, but not required.
Candidates moving toward professional diving benefit from becoming familiar and comfortable with their own equipment over time.
You are not required to arrive with a complete personal scuba setup. BPDC has scuba equipment available for candidates who need to use it during training.
Required PADI materials are purchased separately.
The BPDC training price does not include the required PADI Divemaster course materials. Candidates should purchase the current PADI Divemaster materials separately before or as directed when coordinating their training.
View PADI Divemaster MaterialsContact BPDC for a complete training quote and guidance on required materials before purchasing.
What does BPDC Divemaster training include?
Professional Development
- Instructor-led Divemaster development
- Dive theory review
- Water-skills development
- Skill demonstration practice
- Course-assistance experience
- Certified-diver supervision practice
- Dive briefings and site preparation
- Required projects and practical assessments
- Real dive-center operational experience
Additional Requirements
- 12.5% Government Sales Tax
- Required PADI Divemaster materials
- Other applicable certification or training costs
- Current medical clearance
- Current CPR and First Aid qualification
- Travel and accommodation in San Pedro
Divemaster candidates report directly to BPDC.
Unlike short vacation excursions, Divemaster is a multi-week professional program. Candidates are expected to arrange their own transportation to the dive center for scheduled training and operational days.
PADI Divemaster Training
Every Divemaster candidate's training requirements and schedule can differ, so BPDC provides a complete quote before the program begins.
Your training quote considers:
- Divemaster training requirements
- Expected 3–4 week schedule
- Candidate experience and logged dives
- Practical training requirements
- Required PADI materials
- Any additional training needed before starting
The $950 USD figure is the starting BPDC training price and is subject to 12.5% GST. Required PADI materials and other applicable costs are not included. Contact BPDC for a complete quote before making your final training arrangements.
PADI Divemaster frequently asked questions
Is Divemaster a professional-level scuba course?
Yes. Divemaster is the first step in BPDC's professional scuba-training pathway and focuses on dive leadership, supervision, assisting with training and professional-level diving skills.
How long does BPDC Divemaster training take?
BPDC typically plans approximately three to four weeks for the Divemaster program. The exact schedule depends on operational activity, training requirements and individual candidate progress.
How many logged dives do I need to start?
You need at least 40 documented logged dives before beginning the Divemaster course.
How many dives do I need to become certified?
You must have at least 60 logged dives before your Divemaster certification can be completed.
Do I need Rescue Diver first?
Yes. BPDC requires PADI Rescue Diver or an equivalent recognized rescue-level scuba certification before beginning Divemaster.
Do I need current CPR and First Aid training?
Yes. Qualifying CPR and First Aid training must have been completed within the previous 24 months. BPDC's Emergency First Response course can be completed when this prerequisite needs updating.
Do I need a medical examination?
Yes. A medical statement signed by a physician must be current within the previous 12 months.
What is the minimum age for Divemaster?
Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
Do I need my own scuba equipment?
Having your own equipment is encouraged as you move toward professional diving, but it is not required to begin the BPDC program. BPDC has scuba equipment available for candidates who need to use it during training.
Are PADI Divemaster materials included in the $950 starting price?
No. Required PADI Divemaster course materials are purchased separately. Contact BPDC before enrolling for a complete quote and guidance on the materials you will need.
Is $950 the final Divemaster price?
No. BPDC Divemaster training starts at $950 USD plus 12.5% GST. Required PADI materials and other applicable costs are additional. Contact BPDC for a complete quote.
When is the best time to take Divemaster with BPDC?
Advance scheduling is strongly recommended. When possible, BPDC recommends planning the course outside November 20 through January 4 because dive-center operations are particularly busy during that period.
Does BPDC provide daily pickup during Divemaster?
Divemaster candidates are expected to arrange their own transportation and report directly to the dive center for scheduled training and operational days.