Is a Free Divemaster Internship Worth the Cost?

If you are thinking about doing a divemaster internship, then it’s critical to distinguish between paid and unpaid divemaster internships. In essence, a paid internship obligates you to pay a set price for your training, and an unpaid internship obligates you to pay with labour. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks of free divemaster internships, such as being used for labor without adequate compensation and the misconception that the internship is a leisurely experience. Opting for a dive master course is a significant step towards becoming a professional scuba diver, offering a gateway to mastering diving skills and leadership abilities in underwater exploration.

When it comes to divemaster internships, there is a big distinction to be made between paid and unpaid positions. With a paid internship, you can expect to pay a set price for your training, while an unpaid internship typically requires you to work for free. So, which one is the better option? Choosing dive centers that offer a personalized and ethical approach to divemaster internships can significantly enhance your learning experience. These dive centers focus on limiting the number of divemaster interns to ensure quality training, providing basic dive equipment, and fostering a supportive environment for professional development, including comprehensive diving courses as part of the divemaster internship.

There is no simple answer, as it really depends on your personal situation. However, if you are wondering whether a free divemaster course is worth the cost, here are a few things to consider:

• How much are you willing to invest in your diving career?

• What are you hoping to gain from the internship?

• How much experience do you have?

• What are your career goals?

• Are you prepared to work hard?

• How long are you willing to wait before you can start earning money?

• How much is your time worth? It’s essential for divemaster interns to have personal dive equipment for the internship, as this not only prepares them for the diving industry but also ensures they are equipped to handle various diving conditions.

In the end, the decision boils down to what you are hoping to achieve from the experience. If you have a very tight budget but plenty of time, an unpaid internship might be the better option. However, if you are looking for an opportunity to learn and grow your skills in a more structured learning environment, a paid internship might be a better choice. Whichever route you choose, make sure you do your research and ask lots of questions so you can make the best decision for your diving career. This mutual relationship benefits both the dive shop and the interns, providing valuable hands-on experience while supporting the operational needs of the dive shop and paving the way for a career as a professional scuba diver.

If you are looking to do a paid divemaster internship and become a PADI Divemaster or Instructor, Abyss Scuba Diving is the place for you. We have a range of career-oriented programs that can not only help you meet your goal but, more importantly, help you excel in a profession you will love. With a reputation second to none in the Australian dive industry and located at the heart of some of Sydney’s best diving, Abyss Scuba Diving is a full service, multi-award-winning dive centre and one of only two PADI 5 Star Career Development Centres in Australia.

Our PADI Divemaster Internship program is perfect for new divers who want to make a career change and prepares you to become the ultimate professional diver. With our experienced staff and world-class facilities, you will gain the experience you need to take your diving career to the next level.

What to graduates say about the Abyss Diving Internships: