Go Pro · Divemaster
PADI Divemaster training in Dauin, Philippines
Your first professional level, with time to learn it properly.
As a Divemaster, your attention extends beyond your own dive. You learn to notice other divers, prepare for a dive and support the people around you.
At Bongo Bongo, explore training that connects practical skills and professional responsibility with life in a working dive centre. Understand the requirements and build a course package around the qualifications you still need.
See how we teach
Meet the Scuba Instructor Philippines team and see how we train future dive professionals here in Dauin.
Is Divemaster training right for you?
It suits certified divers who want to work in diving, or who want to take their skills and judgement to a professional level. You need to be at least 18 and a Rescue Diver with recent first aid and CPR training.
It's also the step before instructor training: you need to be a Divemaster (or hold an equivalent rating) to start an IDC.
What you'll practise
- Diving regularly: unlimited dives on our regular dive schedule
- Assisting our instructors with courses
- Helping with dive logistics and boat operations
- Learning how to guide and supervise certified divers
- Improving your rescue skills and bringing your skills to demonstration quality
Your training is supervised by our head instructor, a PADI Master Instructor.
Before you start
- PADI Rescue Diver (or equivalent)
- Emergency First Response (or equivalent) first aid and CPR training within the last 24 months
- At least 40 logged dives to start, and 60 by the end of the programme
- A diving medical statement signed within the last 12 months
- At least 18 years old
Not a Rescue Diver yet? Add Rescue Diver + EFR to your plan. PADI also publishes its Divemaster requirements.
How long it takes
The programme is 6 weeks. With plenty of dives and diving history it can be done in 3 to 4 weeks, but we recommend giving yourself enough time: ear infections and small accidents can keep anyone out of the water for a few days, and it's better to finish without rushing.
Each week beyond 6 is PHP 5,000. The price doesn't drop if you finish sooner, because you train the same skills.
Price and what's included
PHP 60,000
per person for the 6-week programme. Plus the PADI Divemaster application fee (AUD 286, 2026), paid to PADI: see PADI fees.
Included
- Divemaster training and Divemaster materials
- Unlimited dives on our regular dive schedule (marine sanctuary fees are extra)
- Torches for night dives and a compass for navigation skills
- Snorkel test
- Food on day trips
- Bongo Bongo T-shirts, mask strap and logbook
- Bar discount and discounts on dive equipment
Not included
- PADI Divemaster application fee (AUD 286 in 2026), paid to PADI
- Equipment rental, if you need it: PHP 5,000 a month (dive computer not included)
- Marine sanctuary fees
- Accommodation and living costs
Good to know
How long does Divemaster training take?
The programme is 6 weeks. With plenty of dives and diving history it can be done in 3 to 4 weeks, but we recommend giving yourself enough time: ear infections and small accidents can keep anyone out of the water for a few days. Starting from Open Water? Add time for Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver first.
Is it cheaper if I finish sooner?
No. The price stays the same, because you train the same skills in a shorter time. Each week beyond 6 is PHP 5,000.
Can I take diver specialties while I train?
Yes. Trainees can add specialty courses such as Enriched Air (Nitrox), Deep, Sidemount and DPV at a discount, which we'll confirm with you.
Where do trainees stay?
Divemaster and IDC candidates can stay with us at monthly rates, charged by the week so you only pay for the time you stay: a dorm bed is PHP 15,000 a month and a single room PHP 20,000 a month. Both include water, internet and 24/7 electricity (we have our own generator, as power cuts are common here), the pool, and discounted restaurant rates for trainees. Add a room in Build My Career to see it in your estimate.
Is there a work-exchange option?
No. Our Divemaster programme is a paid training programme.
Will I have a job at the end?
We don't promise jobs. What we can give you is plenty of diving, real experience assisting on courses, and honest feedback on how you're progressing.
We don't promise jobs, exam results or a fixed finishing date. How long your training takes depends on your experience, the conditions and your progress, and we'll be honest with you about where you are.
Talk to us about your training
Tell us a little about your diving and when you'd like to start. We'll reply by email with the details and help you plan your next step.
Haven't decided on dates, or not sure which programme fits? That's fine; just tell us where you are now.
You can also email us at ask@divebongo.com.
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