Paragon Diving's Divemaster Course in Big Pine Key
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with strong swimming endurance and comfort in varied water conditions.
Overview
Ready to step up your diving game? Paragon Diving’s 6-day Divemaster program in Big Pine Key develops your skills to lead certified divers through Florida’s iconic reefs. Gain real-world experience in a professional setting.
Divemaster
Ages 18+ • 6 Days • Kick off your diving career!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 6-day Divemaster program that equips you to lead certified divers in diverse environments. Gain confidence through dive briefings, site evaluations, and hands-on leadership. This transformative experience is your gateway to a professional diving career, blending adventure with essential skills for future exploration.
Duration
6 Days
About
The Divemaster program is the first step on an exciting journey. Learn to safely lead certified divers in various environments and conditions. By giving dive briefings, doing site evaluations, and leading dives, you will become a confident Divemaster in no time. Begin your diving career working as a Professional Divemaster.
More Info
Training will typically occur over 3 weekends. This course may also be conducted over 6 consecutive days if desired. Once you have booked your course, you will receive your online academic materials and a course introduction letter laying out schedule and expectations for the course.
Prerequisites
- 18 years of age
- Ability to tread water for 15 minutes
- Ability to swim 400yds without stopping (without mask, fins, snorkel)
- CPR and 1st Aid certification (within the last 2 years)
- Certifications in Deep, Navigation, and Night & Limited Visibility specialties
- 60 or 40hrs of logged dives (will be verified on day 1)
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Water Fitness
Ensure you can swim 400 yards continuously without gear; endurance is key for dive leadership.
Bring Certifications
Carry current CPR, first aid, and specialty dive certifications for day-one verification.
Schedule Flexibility
The course can run over 6 consecutive days or three weekends—choose what fits your rhythm.
Respect Marine Life
Practice low-impact diving techniques to protect fragile coral reefs and marine habitats.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Loggerhead sea turtles
- Spotted eagle rays
History
Big Pine Key sits within the Florida Keys archipelago, a historically significant fishing and maritime region protected partly by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary established in 1990.
Conservation
Paragon Diving emphasizes eco-conscious practices to preserve fragile coral reefs and promotes sustainable diving to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Key West
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mask, Snorkel, Fins
Custom fit equipment improves comfort and efficiency during dives.
summer specific
Wetsuit (3mm or thicker)
Thermal protection is crucial for cooler water temperatures throughout the year.
winter specific
Dive Computer
Vital for tracking depth, time, and decompression limits safely.
Underwater Slate
Useful for briefing divers and recording site notes underwater.