What’s a day like in the life of a DM candidate? Is it all sunshine and rainbows? When you first earn your Open Water Certification you’re typically quite new to the diving world. Perhaps you have a close friend or family member who is a part of the industry, but it’s hard to fully grasp what that world looks like if you’re not in it. Now that you’re certified, maybe you even have your Advanced Open Water, you’re starting to consider making this a profession of your own. Maybe you had a divemaster or an instructor that you looked up to. You saw their life as the perfect balance of work and play– earning money doing what they love, enjoying parties, and socializing.
Now you’re considering taking the step toward earning your Divemaster certification. But what does a day in the life of a DM candidate actually look like? From afar, it seems like they are just a part of the team– is that true? From theoretical studies to hands-on practical experience , the journey from newbie to seasoned DM is varied and changes almost every day. Here we break it down a bit to give you an actual idea on what your DM candidate journey will look like.
What is a DM Candidate?
A divemaster (DM) candidate is a diver who has chosen to take their passion for scuba diving to the next level by pursuing a certification as a professional Divemaster. This training is the first step in professional diving careers. It gives a diver the professional certification and the skills necessary to lead dives and manage dive groups effectively.
What Will You Do Each Day as a DM candidate?
Early Stages:
Initially, your day as a DM candidate will involve a blend of classroom learning and confined water sessions. Here, you’ll get into dive theory, covering topics like dive physics, physiology, equipment management, and more. This foundational knowledge is crucial for understanding the more complex responsibilities you’ll take on later.
Mid-Training Shift:
As you progress, the typical day shifts toward more practical, hands-on training in open waters. You’ll learn to assist with leading dive groups, mapping dive sites, and handling real-life scenarios that divers face in the water. This phase is about applying your classroom knowledge in real-world settings, under the watchful eyes of experienced instructors.
Transition to Professional Duties:
Toward the end of your training, your daily activities will closely resemble those of a professional Divemaster. You’ll take on duties such as guiding actual dive trips, managing safety checks, and ensuring that guest divers have a memorable and secure diving experience. Each day will bring new challenges and learning opportunities, reinforcing your skills and confidence as a dive leader. There is no better learning than getting up and out into the world and actually experiencing and practicing skills to hone them. Your divemaster course will allow you just that– the time and space to use what you have learned!
How Long Will the Training Be?
DM training varies in length depending on several factors, including the dive center, the candidate’s previous experience, and the intensity of the program. Typically, you can expect the course to last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. At Crystal Divers Bali, we ensure that each candidate receives comprehensive training tailored to their pace and prior expertise.
So Should I Do It?
If you’re serious about sharpening your skills for teaching or even just for your own personal diving, completing your DM course is a great idea. Each day as a DM candidate is different, which really speaks to the personality type you will find in the industry. Typically you will find people who love an ever changing variety in their day. They like to go out and experience life and what it has to throw at them. And finally they love the feeling of introducing a passion of their own to others. If this sounds like you, you’re in the right place.
Ready to dive into your next big adventure? Book your Divemaster course with Crystal Divers Bali today and start a journey that transforms your passion into a profession.
