Divemaster Internship | Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Divemaster Internship take?
The duration depends on your current certification level and experience. Some divers join from beginner level, while others already hold advanced certifications. In most cases it takes from 2-6 weeks. Explore our packages ➜
Do I work in exchange for my Divemaster certification?
No. Our Divemaster Internship is a professional training program focused on your development as a diver. While you will gain real dive center experience throughout your training, the priority is structured learning, mentorship, and building professional-level diving skills — not unpaid operational work.
What’s the difference between paid and free Divemaster internships?
Some dive centers advertise “free” Divemaster internships, while others charge for structured professional training programs. The main difference is usually what is included and how the training is delivered. Free internships usually take multiple months in exchange for your operational work at the dive center. They may still involve extra costs such as certification fees, materials, equipment rental. Paid internships are shorter, more structured and focused on personal instruction, skill development, and real diving experience. Detailed comparison here ➜
How much does the Divemaster Internship cost?
The cost depends on your current certification level, diving experience, and the duration of your training program. Costs explained here ➜
Where will I dive during the internship?
Training takes place at several dive sites around Tenerife with different conditions and environments. Our dive center is located in Abades Bay, one of Tenerife’s best-known shore diving locations, known for easy water access and rich marine life including rays, turtles, and angel sharks.
Explore the dive site right in front of our Dive Center with this video.
Will I gain real divemaster experience?
Yes. As you progress through your training, you will gradually take on more responsibilities under instructor supervision. Alongside with your training, you will have the possibility to assist guided dives and scuba courses. This helps you build confidence, professionalism, and real-world Divemaster experience.
Is the Divemaster Internship safe?
Safety is a fundamental part of all professional dive training. We follow European safety standards and SSI training procedures, with supervised training and gradual skill progression throughout the program. Tenerife also offers calm subtropical conditions and no agressive marine life, making it an ideal environment for professional dive training.
Why do your Divemaster internship in Europe?
Training in Europe makes the logistics much simpler for many divers. There are no expensive long-haul flights, no visa runs every few weeks, and no need for extended travel insurance policies just to stay abroad for longer periods.
It is also easier to stay connected with home thanks to minimal time-zone differences, while training under strict European health, safety, and maritime regulations.
Is the Divemaster Internship physically demanding?
Professional dive training is active, but the program is designed to be progressive and manageable. We combine training days with time to rest, study, and recover, helping you develop comfortably throughout the internship. Alternatively, you can also extend your stay if you prefer a slower pace.
Where will I stay during the internship?
Shared accommodation is included during your program. You will stay close to the dive center, making it easy to focus on training, diving, and daily activities without long commutes.
What can I do after becoming a Divemaster?
The SSI Divemaster certification allows you to work in dive centers, resorts, liveaboards, and marine tourism operations worldwide. You will be qualified to lead guided dives for certified divers and to assist in diving courses. Many dievmasters also continue toward Instructor-level training and professional teaching careers.
How easy is it to find work as a Divemaster?
Thousands of dive centers around the world look for Divemasters during busy tourist seasons. As one of the world’s largest scuba training agencies, SSI has thousands of affiliated dive centers worldwide, creating opportunities to work and travel in many different destinations with your SSI Divemaster certification.
How much do Divemasters earn?
Divemaster salaries vary greatly depending on location, experience, responsibilities, and type of employment. While diving is not typically considered a high-paying career, it offers unique opportunities to work and travel around the world doing something you enjoy.
Should I continue to Instructor level?
If you enjoy teaching and want better job opportunities in the diving industry, continuing toward Instructor level. By adding one additional week of training, you can upgrade from Divemaster to Assistant Instructor and continue toward becoming an Open Water Instructor. Explore more here ➜
Not sure yet? Explore more
If you’re still planning your path, these pages will help you understand the full experience.