Take your first steps in making the beach your office and become a PADI Dive Professional. Gain experience being a Divemaster at one of the best dive locations in the world, take part in marine conservation research and learn about the ocean.

With Deep Blue Conservation

A group of women and a man sitting on chairs in a semi-circle outdoors, listening to the man who appears to be instructing. They are on a green tarp with a red and beige mat in the center, possibly for training or discussion. The setting looks like a rustic outdoor area with trees and wooden structures.
A scuba diver adjusting his goggles while holding a hand near his head in a peace sign gesture.

What to Expect From the Diving Internship

Your journey kicks off on any Friday of the month, welcoming you to Sodwana Bay, one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems on Earth. From day one, you’ll dive into an unforgettable experience blending world class dive training with hands-on marine conservation.

  • Arrival & Orientation: Your first weekend is all about settling in, getting your bearings and meeting your new ocean loving crew.

  • Hitting the Water: On Sunday, you’ll splash into the pool to begin your PADI Open Water training or refresh your skills before heading out to the ocean.

  • Fast-Track to Exploring: Complete your Open Water course in just three days during your first week, or, if you're already certified dive straight into action with our research team.

  • Real Conservation Work: Once qualified, you'll join our Nudibranch monitoring project. You’ll dive five days a week, collecting photographic data, tracking reef health and contributing to actual marine biodiversity research.

  • The Path to Professional: Push onward to your PADI Divemaster certification. By assisting instructors, leading dives and earning advanced credentials. You'll gain the confidence to launch a career in the dive industry or marine science.

  • Work Hard, Play Hard: We believe in balance. Every week includes one epic local adventure and one day to completely relax and recharge.

This is more than just an internship. It’s your chance to turn a passion for the ocean into a true purpose.

What's Included

  • Airport Transfers: Seamless round-trip transfers between Richards Bay airport and the camp.

  • Dives & Gear: 1 dive a day, 5 days a week. Plus full hard gear rental (BCD, regulator, weight belt, and cylinders).

  • Accommodation: Comfortable living at our private camp.

  • Local Transport: Daily rides to and from the beach, plus town transport for excursions and nights out.

  • Food: Essential groceries provided for communal cooking in our shared kitchen.

  • Park & Gate Fees: Included entry fees into the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Marine Protected Area.

  • PADI Certifications: All necessary training courses tailored to your chosen tier (Open Water, Advanced, EFR, Rescue, and/or Divemaster).

  • Weekly Excursions: Scenic viewpoints, trips to Lake Sibaya and traditional weekend braais (barbeques).

Internship Options & Pricing

Choose the path that fits your current experience level. All options require a minimum age of 18.

Open Water to Divemaster / 16 weeks / € 10,570

Advanced to Divemaster / 12 weeks / € 8,155

PADI Rescue to Divemaster / 10 weeks / € 6,705

PADI Rescue to Divemaster / 8 weeks / € 5,735

PADI Divemaster / 8 weeks / € 5,410

PADI Divemaster / 6 weeks / € 4,260

Prices are subject to change based on shifting exchange rates, fuel costs, and other external factors. We do our best to keep things stable, but lock in early to secure your spot!

Ready to take the plunge? Let us know which internship duration you're leaning toward and we can help you lock in your preferred start date!

Four people sitting on the grass by the water during sunset.
Four people sitting on the grass by the water during sunset.
Deep Blue Conservation logo with a blue dolphin tail and stylized text
Deep Blue Conservation logo with a blue dolphin tail and stylized text