How a PADI Scuba Dive Internship Program Can Transform Your Passion into a Profession

Have you ever pictured yourself leaving the mundane behind to chase an extraordinary profession beneath the waves? That’s exactly what our PADI-certified dive internship program at Coral Divers offers.

It’s not just a course – it’s your doorway to a new life where your office space spans the endless blue of the Indian Ocean. Here, your daily tasks include gliding through waters teeming with breathtaking marine life against the backdrop of some of the planet’s most exquisite coral gardens.

What Makes Sodwana Bay Special?

A Diver’s Paradise – Train in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, guiding dives on the southern-most tropical coral reef system in the world.
Marine Marvels Await – Encounter majestic Ragged-Tooth Sharks, graceful rays, playful dolphins, and even the occasional Humpback Whale.

Why Dive With Us And What's Included In The Program?

Expertise & Experience: We’re not just any dive center; we’re a PADI 5-Star Career Development Center with an in-house Platinum PADI Course Director, making us a top choice for aspiring divers since 1996.
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 maximize your underwater time, focusing on achieving your goals with the possibility of completing in excess of 400 dives.
Full Board Lodging: Our program 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.
Career-Ready: Beyond certifications, you’ll gain the real-world experience that luxury yachts and dive resorts worldwide are looking for, making our Divemaster Internship or Instructor Course a gateway to become a dive professional.

What’s Excluded

Personal Dive Gear: While tanks and weights 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 the initial intro phase of our program does not require you to have your own gear.
PADI Fees: Certain fees associated with PADI certifications are not included in the program cost. These can be paid directly to PADI.

See What Others Have To Say

Layla Francis

February 2014 Intake

I have been on an incredible life adventure, and it all started at Coral Divers. I did my internship in 2014 and I have been traveling the world and working abroad ever since. Once I got my instructors license, doors just kept opening and I took every new adventure that I could! I am currently working in the Bahamas and am looking at soon moving over to the Polynesian islands to do conservation work with sharks and rays! Diving and exploring has been my passion since I was 11years old and I cannot believe I found a way to turn it into my job! I am so grateful for the adventures and friends who became family that Coral Divers put in my path in 2014. @that.scuba.girl

Joshua Armstrong

February 2017 Intake

My path to becoming a Superyacht Bosun and soon to be Chief Officer would not have been possible without the fundamentals I learnt through Coral Divers Internship program. The manners, time management, work ethic, hospitality and guest relations I learnt during my time on top of obviously learning to be the best possible Scuba Diving Instructor. My time at Coral has & always will hold such a special place in my heart and I cherish the experience and memories I made. I highly recommend the internship experience for anyone looking to gain invaluable life and work experience, meet lifelong friends and have an entry into the underwater world which will open countless opportunities and doors for you in multiple industries including on the Super Yachts. Go follow me at @joshatravels on all socials.

Who Is This PADI Scuba Diving Internship For?

This program is tailor-made for those who harbor 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.

Our Dive Internship Program in 5 Phases

Phase 1 - Introductory Phase

Starting with the PADI Open Water Diver Course, you'll progress through to the PADI Rescue Diver level, logging at least 40 dives along the way. This initial phase centres on mastering essential rescue techniques and emergency first response skills. With completion, you earn 6 indispensable certifications, setting a solid foundation for advancing in your diving career. It's during this hands-on phase that you'll gain invaluable experience working directly on the beach, right in the epicentre of the SA dive industry.

Phase 2 - Divemaster Course

The divemaster course is where your hands-on training takes place, with a focus on developing leadership skills and practical dive experience. You'll also work with guests, assisting our instructors on courses and leading certified divers. With your PADI Divemaster training done, you are now qualified to work as a dive professional anywhere in the world.

Phase 3 - Divemaster Experience Phase

Once you've got your PADI Divemaster certification, or wrapped up the Divemaster Phase, you're ready to dive into the Divemaster Experience Phase. It's here where the real fun begins. You'll lead Coral Divers' customers on underwater adventures, help out with the operation, and even assist instructors. You're not just a guest; you're part of the crew, handling gear room duties and logging dives that could well over qualify you for the Instructor Development Course. Plus, you get the full package—diving, meals, a place to stay, and even some stylish Coral Divers gear for those planning meetings. This phase doesn't just prepare you to be a PADI Instructor; it immerses you in the lifestyle.

Phase 4 - Instructor Development Course

In this final phase, you'll develop the knowledge and skills needed to become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor. You'll learn how to effectively teach and evaluate students, setting you up for a rewarding career as a dive instructor.

Phase 5 - Instructor Experience Phase

Selected candidates are then offered the opportunity to gain valuable experience training students at South Africa's top certifying dive resort under the guidance of a Platinum course director. This gives candidates experience that will help them attain jobs globally.

Previous slide

Next slide

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. Enroll today and take the first step towards a career filled with adventure, passion, and unparalleled experiences.

Customize Your Journey

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.

Note – If you already logged 40 dives and have a PADI Rescue Diver certification, you may choose to skip the Intro phase and start with the Divemaster course.

Dive In Now - Secure Your Spot!

FAQ's About Our Dive Internship Program

Is there an age limit for the internship program?

Yes, you have to be 18 to participate in our internship program. However, we also offer a variety of other courses and programs for younger divers.

Do I need previous diving experience to enroll?

No prior experience is necessary for the INTRO phase of our internship program. However, for the Divemaster phase, you must be at least a qualified Rescue Diver with 40 dives or more. The instructor phase requires a Divemaster qualification and 100 logged dives.

What qualifications do I need to have before enrolling?

Before enrolling, you need to be fluent in English and medically fit to dive, and able to swim. Ensuring you meet these criteria is crucial for both your safety and the efficacy of your training throughout the program.

Do I need my own diving equipment?

No, not in the intro phase, but in the Divemaster phase. In the initial phase of our program, you'll need your own soft gear, such as a dive mask, wetsuit, fins, and snorkel. However, as you advance into the Divemaster phase and beyond, PADI requires that you have all necessary diving equipment in good working condition.

How will this internship benefit my career?

This internship isn't just about becoming a certified diver; it's about shaping you into a professional ready to excel in the marine industry. Diving is a skill that's in high demand across various sectors, including superyachts, marine conservation, underwater photography, and more. With our comprehensive program, you'll not just be qualified but experienced and ready to take on the world of diving with confidence.