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:


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:

  • Superyachts
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Marine Guide
  • Marine Biologist
  • Scuba Instruction
  • Live-Aboard Operator
  • Underwater Videographer
  • Dive Center Manager/Owner
  • Marine Construction/Engineer
  • Police Diver/Search & Rescue

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:

Dive into the warm, inviting waters of the Indian Ocean, exploring the world’s southernmost tropical coral reef system with optimal visibility and mild currents.

Get up close with a spectacular array of marine life, from Ragged-tooth sharks and Manta rays to playful dolphins and sometimes even majestic Humpback Whales.

With diving available 364 days a year, Sodwana Bay offers consistent conditions, making it perfect for both training and leisure dives.

Discover vibrant, untouched coral gardens that boast a kaleidoscope of colours and marine species, providing a stunning backdrop for every dive.


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

What’s Excluded

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:

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!

When would you like to start?
Please select the phases you are interested in:

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions You May Have

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.