Meet Maximilian Hjorth: PADI Instructor with Royal Marine Expertise and a Lifelong Passion for Diving

Maximilian Hjorth is a dedicated PADI Instructor at Abyss Scuba Diving in Sydney, combining professional precision from his time as a Royal Marine Commando with a lifelong love for the ocean. His calm, confident teaching style and deep respect for the marine environment make him a favourite among students learning to dive in Sydney.

Experience and Qualifications

Growing up in Sweden, Maximilian was immersed in the diving world from an early age, inspired by his father—a PADI Course Director. This early mentorship shaped his approach to diving and instruction. He earned his PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor certification in Koh Tao, Thailand, one of the world’s premier dive training destinations.

Before joining Abyss Scuba Diving, Maximilian spent five years serving as a Royal Marine Commando, operating in some of the world’s most challenging environments. This experience honed his leadership, discipline, and safety awareness—skills he now brings to every dive and student interaction. His background allows him to teach with patience, structure, and an emphasis on confidence-building underwater.

Favourite Sydney Dive Sites

Since settling in Sydney, Maximilian has embraced the local diving scene with enthusiasm. You’ll often find him exploring The Steps and Oak Park—two of his favourite Sydney dive sites—where he enjoys spotting weedy sea dragons, cuttlefish, and schools of yellowtail. Whether leading shore dives or boat trips, he loves showcasing the incredible marine biodiversity Sydney offers year-round.

Teaching Philosophy

Maximilian believes diving should be both empowering and inspiring. His approach is simple: “My goal is to make every diver feel safe, confident, and amazed by what they discover beneath the surface.” He takes pride in guiding students from their first breaths underwater to more advanced adventures, always focusing on safety, environmental awareness, and personal growth.

Why Learn to Dive with Maximilian

With a global diving background—from the icy waters of Scandinavia to the coral reefs of the Red Sea—Maximilian brings a unique blend of professionalism and passion to every dive. His students consistently describe him as supportive, knowledgeable, and fun to learn with. If you’re ready to learn to dive in Sydney or continue your diving journey, join Maximilian for an unforgettable underwater experience.

Quick Facts

PADI Certification: Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI)
Specialties: Shore diving, marine life education, diver confidence training
Background: Former Royal Marine Commando
Nationality: Swedish / British
Favourite Dive Sites: The Steps, Oak Park, Bare Island

“There’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone take their first breath underwater and realise a whole new world exists right beneath the waves.” – Maximilian Hjorth

Book your next dive or course with Maximilian at Abyss Scuba Diving Sydney and experience his passion for diving firsthand.