Divemaster or Master scuba diver? Two very different certifications. One is a professional level and one is a recreational certification yet both are looked upon as a high level of experience in the scuba diving world. But which one would work for you? Here are six things to think about with the two different certifications.
Do you want to work in the dive industry?
This is a pretty straightforward question. The Divemaster certification is a professional certfication that allows you to work as an instructional assistant and guide certified divers. The master scuba diver does not. It is a recreational certification. So, if you are wanting to work in the industry then you would want to look towards the Divemaster certification.
Do you want to focus on your personal dive skills and try new things?
With the Master scuba diver certification you have to complete 5 PADI specialties as well as your rescue certification and 50 dives. This means it’s a great chance to try out different scuba diving skills that you hadn’t had the chance to try previously. This could be cave diving, wreck diving or any multitude of awesome scuba diving activities. It’s all about you and what you would like to try.
Rescue skills are key
This is one that applies to both certifications. For the master scuba diver certification you must have your rescue diver certification. For the Divemaster certification you revisit your rescue diver skills and have to perform a rescue scenario in addition to your standard Divemaster training. If rescue training is key, then you can’t go wrong with either certification.
Age ain’t nothing but a number?
One of the key things about the Divemaster certification is the professional ranking. To be responsible for others you must be 18 years of age which means, age does play a factor here. The Master scuba diver rating doesn’t have an age restriction. As long as you have your rescue diver you can start working towards the program which means our budding junior divers can aim high.
How much time do you have?
Time spent on training can play a role in your decision. For the master scuba diver you may have to travel to some different destinations to complete your specialties of choice. Maybe Cozumel for drift, Florida for wreck. For Divemaster training you tend to stay put and complete at one center. Most Divemaster programs are completed over a period of at least 2 months up to 12 months depending on your dive numbers to start and how often you are diving.
Do you think you can be responsible for others and do you want to be?
Even if you don’t want to work in the dive industry, for the Divemaster training you are looking beyond what you can do. You are looking to helping others. Can you recognize stress and assist them? Will you help them down a line? Can you show them divers interesting fish and creatures underwater? You are an underwater tour guide and act as such under the water and on the surface. If you are the type of person who doesn’t want to engage others and talk about the dive, there is nothing wrong with that but it won’t work as a Divemaster. If you are centered on your diving and skills and not engaging others then the master scuba diver is probably for you.
Either way, both are excellent certifications. Which ever route you choose, you will know that you have picked an excellent way to build your dive skills for the purpose that you want. Look ahead and make a good choice!