Why You Should Do Your Divemaster Course in Koh Tao, Thailand

Group of happy people on the side of a pool.

Find out why Koh Tao is one of the best places in the world to do your Divemaster Course. It’s more than just a course, it’s a lifestyle. 

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What is a Divemaster course?

The Divemaster course is a significant step for individuals passionate about exploring the underwater world and seeking to turn their love into a profession. This intensive program equips participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for leading and supervising dive activities. 

A Divemaster course, often referred to as a Divemaster internship, is the initial step for a recreational diver to transition into the professional level of scuba diving.

As a professional diver, a Divemaster will be able to:
  • work as a dive guide where you will plan, organize and lead certified divers
  • assist with RAID diving courses 
  • participate in conservation internship programs through groups like INLOC or Working Abroad, and 
  • Work in dive equipment production or distribution jobs

Many people complete their Divemaster course as a stepping stone towards higher levels of diving professions, advancing to become a diving instructor, commercial diver and/or underwater photographer. Others choose to continue working as a Divemaster, where they can lead divers on fun dives and get paid to show divers their favorite sites and sea creatures.

What are some things to look forward to in your Divemaster training?

Divers hovering in trim underwater.

Advance your scuba skills and assist with courses in the water

During your Divemaster course, you will refine your diving skills under the guidance of seasoned instructors. You will gain experience leading dives through daily practice and assist in scuba courses to hone your abilities. By the course’s completion, your buoyancy and air control will be instinctive, and you will be well-equipped to manage any emergency situations with confidence and precision.

Develop unique and transferable leadership and management skills

Non-diving skills are essential for advancing to the next level as a confident dive professional. In your Divemaster course, you will also develop leadership and management abilities, such as understanding the business of diving and mastering environmental conservation techniques. You will dive into dive theory and physiology, applying these skills to the dynamic world of diving, making every step of the journey both enjoyable and rewarding.

Diver with hands out as if to suggest a large fish.

Have an unforgettable life experience in paradise

As an island dedicated to diving, becoming a Divemaster on Koh Tao is a unique adventure. You will dive deeper into your love for scuba, surrounded by like-minded people. You will make friends from around the world and push your personal limits and accomplishments.

During the 8-10 week Divemaster course, you will build lasting relationships. You will connect with fellow Trainees, mentors, instructors, and the vibrant local marine life. You will explore the most pristine dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand. Many divers and travelers say that their time on Koh Tao was one of their best experiences.

Choosing the right place for your Divemaster course also means you will enjoy white sand beaches, hike through remote jungles, and dine at exotic restaurants, just like those on Koh Tao.

Why choose Koh Tao to do your Divemaster course?

Female diver walking out of the water onto the island.

Amazing Koh Tao dive sites and conditions

Koh Tao is an island that lives and breathes all types of scuba diving.  With over 25 local dive sites, Koh Tao has excellent diving conditions, warm waters and sunny days year-round.

World’s highest scuba diving standards of safety

With so many scuba diving schools to choose from, competition is thriving. With that comes heightened standards for training and facilities. Being a small island means that you can find a variety of schools that hold each other to the highest safety standards. 

Taking prerequisite courses like the Master Rescue course, offered at most of the diving schools in Thailand,  will demonstrate the level of professionalism and standards in safety you will find on Koh Tao as compared to other educational diving locations around the world.

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One of the most affordable locations to learn to scuba dive

One reason it’s so affordable to complete your Divemaster training on Koh Tao is the island’s low cost of living. There are hundreds of options for renting simple rooms, apartments, beach bungalows, and dorms. Some Divemaster programs even offer free accommodation.

Your Divemaster training course, excluding room and board, should cost between 45,000 – 100,000 THB. The cost depends on factors such as whether you have completed prerequisite courses and dives, the length of the program, the number of dives included, the facilities, and the training staff. This price also includes mandatory personal safety equipment you will need to purchase before or during the course.

Be cautious of courses advertised as less than 4 weeks long and costing under 30,000 THB. Remember, this is a professional training program. While it is possible to complete the course quickly, you should consider whether you want to start your new career with substandard training.

While you save money on affordable scuba diving training, you will also enjoy Koh Tao’s budget-friendly world-class restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and exciting nature adventures.

Tourist Visa Info

Most countries are eligible for 30-90 day visas, and recently the 30 day visa exempt upon arrival has been increased to 60 days. Check the Thai Embassy page for options based on your country of residence. Visas can be extended an additional 30 days at any immigration office, fortunately we now have one on the island. This offers ample time to get your training in, as well as loads of fun dives.

Hydronauts Divemaster

Aerial image of Chalok Baan Kao, Koh Tao.

Simply put, Koh Tao offers everything you want and need in completing your Divemaster course. Pristine waters, clear conditions and beautiful weather are just the beginning.

By completing your Divemaster course here at Hydronauts Diving Resort, you will be training in our lush dive sites accompanied by the most experienced and focused educators, making new friends, connections and creating an unforgettable experience. We offer the highest standards, the best facilities and equipment, with training is designed to maximize your diving education and compentency. 

Reach out to us today to find out what makes Koh Tao and Hydronauts the best place in the world to complete your Divemaster course.

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Frequently Asked Questions

These are some of our most frequently asked questions, hopefully they help you find what you are looking for. If not, send us an email, we are happy to help.

Of course, we have a rolling year-round course structure, so you can start your Divemaster course and/or prerequisites any time of year. 

Our Divemaster program is unique. We have created a format of 60 days worth of training completed within 90 days. At the beginning of your time with us, we will meet with you to discuss your training goals. At this time you will be able to request any specific days off and set a schedule that suits your needs. This will allow time to work online, go fun diving or just relax and enjoy island life. Alternatively, if you have a limited amount of time to complete your training, we can work with you to set a more streamlined schedule.

Absolutely! RAID is governed by the same industry standards as other international diving agencies, and most equivalent courses taken through those agencies are applicable. We think you will be impressed with how diving the RAID way will enhance your previous experiences, turning you into an amazing dive professional.

Not necessarily. As an instructor, you would need to work at a shop that has a membership with your certifying agency. However, Divemasters have a little more flexibility. Most shops will hire Divemasters that are certified with any agency as long as they maintain their active status and diving insurance. 

One notable advantage of pursuing divemaster training with RAID lies in the enhanced qualification it offers compared to Divemasters certified through alternative agencies. RAID distinguishes itself by mandating Deep 40 and Nitrox qualifications for its Divemasters, a unique requirement in the industry. This thorough training prepares you to dive at depths comparable to seasoned recreational divers without restrictions. Additionally, it strengthens your foundational skills for advancing in your professional development.

Life on Koh Tao can  be as cheap or as expensive as you like it to be.. Factors to consider are housing, motorbike rental, meals, visa runs and entertainment which all come at varying price points from cheap and cheerful to luxurious. 

Why Choose Hydronauts?​

RAID Instructors​

Our experienced instructors are hand-picked, highly trained, and passionate about scuba diving. We tailor each course and dive to your unique needs.

Beachfront Diving Resort​

Southwestern-facing property including a dive shop, hotel, training pool, cafe & restaurant, dive boat, and beach bar. We offer diving & accommodation packages for every budget.

Guaranteed Small Groups

We guarantee small groups of no more than four students to an instructor or dive guide so that you get the individual attention you deserve.

State-of-the-Art Equipment

We choose to dive and teach in Backplate & Wing BCD with a Long-hose, Short-hose regulator configuration favored by technical divers.

Dive Anywhere in the World

Upon completion of your RAID scuba diving course, you will be issued with an e-certification card that recognizes you as an internationally certified scuba diver.

Low Carbon Footprint

We make every effort to reduce our footprint and use of paper and plastic. All our course materials are hosted online giving you access for life.