Elevate Your Dive
Transform Your Love for Diving into a Thriving Career with Our Dive Internship Program
Gain Real-World Experience in an Unmatched Location
Dreaming of swapping your daily grind for a career in the deep blue? Coral Divers is the place to make that happen! Our PADI-certified Career Development Course & Dive Internship Program isn’t just about learning—it’s about transforming your life.
Over 7 months (or up to a year for those who qualify and are invited to stay on), you’ll be immersed in hands-on training with our program management team and our Instructor Development course (IDC) is run by South Africa’s only in-house Platinum PADI Course Director. Whether you’re a complete newbie or an experienced diver, there’s a place for you here.
Don’t miss this chance to dive into a world of adventure and expertise. Read on, or risk letting your dream career slip through your fingers!

Hands-On
Scuba Training Program
What Is a Scuba Dive Internship?
Our Career Development Course (CDC) and Dive Internship Program is more than just learning about diving—it’s an adventure that opens up a whole new world. Whether you’re taking a gap year or looking to build a career in the diving industry, our program is perfect for you.
Located in the heart of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, you’ll explore pristine coral reefs and encounter marine wonders like Humpback Whales, nesting Sea Turtles, and Ragged-tooth sharks. As a PADI 5 Star Career Development Center, we offer comprehensive training that goes beyond certifications; you’ll learn about dive centre operations, customer service, and equipment maintenance.
For those eager to explore the world while working as a dive professional, our program offers a clear path to becoming a PADI Divemaster and PADI Open Water Instructor. At South Africa’s top dive resort, we dive 364 days a year, providing unmatched experience and training opportunities.

Passionate
Ocean Lovers
Who Is This PADI Scuba Diving Internship For?
This program is tailor-made for those who harbour a keen passion for the underwater world and yearn for a career that’s far from mundane. Whether you’re taking a gap year, seeking a career change, or simply aspiring to add a thrilling depth to your life, our program is your gateway. It’s perfect for:
Gap Year Takers
Take a break and explore the beauty of the ocean while learning valuable skills that will set you apart in any job market. This program is particularly appealing for those looking to work abroad in tropical destinations and on yachts, providing an opportunity to earn Dollars while living a life of adventure.
Career Changers
It’s never too late to switch gears. If the call of the ocean is too strong to ignore, we provide the training and experience needed to make the leap confidently into a divemaster internship or dive professional path.
Adventure Seekers
If you’ve always thirsted for adventure and desired an occupation that’s as far removed from a cubicle as possible, this is for you.

Hands-On
Scuba Training Program
Where Can You Work As a Divemaster or Dive Instructor?
A Divemaster or Instructor certification can open doors to diverse career opportunities worldwide, allowing you to work in various exciting fields. Here are some paths our past candidates have taken:

What Makes Sodwana Bay Ideal?
Sodwana Bay isn’t just a diving spot—it’s a diver’s ultimate playground, where every descent is a new adventure waiting to unfold. Here’s why this location is ideal for both aspiring dive professionals and seasoned underwater explorers:

Why Dive With Us And What’s Included In The Program?
Choosing the right Dive Internship Program is crucial for anyone serious about turning their passion into a profession. At Coral Divers, we offer an unparalleled combination of expertise, experience, and opportunity. Here’s why our Internship Program is a game-changer and what’s included in our comprehensive program to ensure you get the most out of your journey into the diving world.
What’s Included
Unrivalled Diving Opportunities
Our unique training facility sits inside a World Heritage Site in a marine protected area, offering unmatched biodiversity and beauty. Our program is designed to maximise your underwater time, focusing on achieving your goals with the possibility of completing in excess of 400 dives.
Expertise & Experience
We’re not just any dive centre; we’re a PADI 5-Star Career Development Center with South Africa’s only in-house Platinum PADI Course Director, making us a top choice for aspiring divers since 1996.
Career-Ready
Beyond certifications, you’ll gain the real-world experience that luxury yachts and dive resorts worldwide are looking for, making our divemaster or instructor course a gateway to becoming a dive professional.
Full Board Lodging
Our program cost includes comfortable and convenient on-site accommodation with three meals a day, so you can focus on learning and diving without any additional expenses.
Study Materials
During the theory portion of your training, you’ll receive all necessary PADI materials to complete your certification and expand your dive knowledge.
What’s Excluded
Personal Dive Gear
While tanks are provided as part of the internship, you’ll need your personal dive gear for the comprehensive completion of the divemaster and instructor program. However, understanding that entering a new sport or career path comes with its uncertainties, we want to highlight that during the Intro phase of our program you will start by investing in your own wetsuit, mask, fins, snorkel and weight system.
PADI Fees
Certain fees associated with PADI certifications are not included in the program cost. These can be paid directly to PADI.

Learn
Train|Dive|Lead
Our Dive Internship Program in 5 Phases
Our Dive Internship Program offers four start dates each year—February 1st, May 1st, August 1st, and November 1st—whether you’re beginning with the Introductory phase or jumping straight into the Divemaster Course. Your starting point will be tailored to match your current diving experience.
Phase 1 – R49200 or r58700 (feb)
Introductory Phase – Build Your Foundation
During the 3-month Introductory Training Phase, you’ll rotate between dive training and beach operations, building teamwork and diving skills. Complete courses such as PADI Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water, Deep Diver, and Rescue Diver, alongside various other courses. On the beach, you will assist with setting up, loading boats, maintaining equipment, fueling, and gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of dive operations.
Phase 2 – R24500
Divemaster Course – Become a Dive Leader
In this 1-month phase, you’ll take the PADI Divemaster course and become a dive leader with an internationally recognised certification. Enhance your problem-solving skills, learn accident management, and supervise students and certified divers. Complete knowledge reviews, pool training exercises, and practical applications, including mapping projects and leading divers. You’ll also have the chance to earn Deep and Nitrox specialities if not already completed.
Phase 3 – R22600
Divemaster Experience Phase
During this 3-month phase, you’ll lead dives, conduct Scuba Review programs, assist instructors with student divers, and help with beach operations, gaining real-world experience. Expect to complete 80-100+ dives, enhancing your understanding of PADI standards through classes and workshops. This phase also prepares you for the Instructor Development Course, allowing you to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and attain hands-on experience—vital for becoming a successful PADI Instructor.
Phase 4 – R45300
Instructor Development Course – Become a Teacher
The PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is the core of becoming a dive instructor. Over an intensive 14-day program led by our in-house PADI Course Director, you’ll deepen your dive theory knowledge, enhance watermanship and rescue skills, and develop leadership abilities.
You’ll learn to teach in various settings—confined water, classrooms, and open water—while mastering PADI’s educational standards and philosophies. This phase prepares you for the 2-day Instructor Exam, where you can demonstrate your expertise and become a certified PADI Instructor, ready to inspire the next generation of divers.
Phase 5 – for selected candidates
Instructor Experience Phase – Live the Dream
Available to those who complete the entire Dive Internship Program, this phase is an opportunity to gain practical experience teaching PADI courses. As an instructor, you’ll uphold PADI standards and the Coral Divers Code of Conduct, demonstrating professionalism and service excellence.
You’ll spend several months refining your skills, teaching various courses, assisting with beach operations, and leading dives, all while accumulating additional dives and student certifications. This phase is an excellent opportunity to build your confidence and experience as a newly certified instructor.

Tailor
Your Dive Path
Customise Your Journey with Our Phase Options
At Coral Divers, we understand that everyone’s path into professional diving is unique. That’s why we offer a variety of phase options tailored to meet you where you are in your diving career, from introductory lessons to divemaster internships as well as to becoming an instructor. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re already far along in your underwater adventure, we have a program that fits:
Intro Phase Only
Designed for those with little or no experience, this 3-month phase is your gateway into the world of professional diving.
Intro & Divemaster Phases
Spanning 4 months, this option builds on the INTRO phase with additional training to become a PADI Divemaster.
Intro, Divemaster & Divemaster Experience Phases
Lasting 7 months, this comprehensive program takes you through from beginner to becoming a proficient diver and understanding the mechanics of scuba equipment.
Intro, Divemaster, Divemaster Experience & Instructor Development (IDC) Phases
Also 7 months long, this all-inclusive option is for those who aim to go from novice to PADI Instructor, ready to teach the next generation of divers.

Seize
Your Spot
Time To Act Quickly!
Your future in the dive industry starts with a single step, and there’s no time like the present to take that leap. With Coral Divers, you’re not just earning a certification; you’re unlocking a passport to a world of adventure and global opportunities.
Don’t wait for tomorrow to chase your dreams. Spaces are limited, and the ocean’s wonders won’t wait. Enrol today and take the first step towards a career filled with adventure, passion, and unparalleled experiences.
START
YOUR JOURNEY
Dive In Now – Secure Your Spot!
Ready to elevate your diving skills and kickstart your career underwater? Are you 18 years or older, speak English, able to swim and medically fit to dive? Fill out the form now to secure your spot and dive into a thrilling adventure with Coral Divers! Don’t wait—take the plunge today!
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions