Earn an elite Master Scuba Diver rating with Rich Coast Diving in Costa Rica. Discover what sets this certification apart and why diving Playas del Coco’s waters is an unmatched experience.
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Difficulty
expert
Duration
Variable; multiple dives over several days
Fitness Level
Divers should have strong swimming skills, good cardiovascular health, and endurance for repetitive deep dives.
Wildlife
History
Playas del Coco was one of the first beach towns developed for tourism in Guanacaste, evolving from its fishing village roots.
Conservation
Rich Coast Diving supports sustainable diving practices that protect coral reefs and promote local marine biodiversity.
Rich Coast Diving
Earn an elite Master Scuba Diver rating with Rich Coast Diving in Costa Rica. Discover what sets this certification apart and why diving Playas del Coco’s waters is an unmatched experience.
Rich Coast Diving is a dive operator based in Coco, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica, offering a full range of scuba training, guided dives, conservation programs, and short-term dive insurance. The center runs PADI and SSI courses from introductory experiences—Try Scuba and Scuba Diver—to full Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Master Scuba Diver certifications.
The operation offers multi-length Divemaster internships (one-, two-, and three-month options) that prepare candidates for professional work; the three-month program includes both SSI and PADI certifications. Specialty courses cover more than 20 options such as deep diving and underwater photography, and focused ecology specialties on sharks, mantas, and sea turtles. Marine Conservation Programs run at multiple levels (one-week, two-week, and four-week options) and include fish monitoring and species-specific monitoring programs like shark and pufferfish surveys.
Daily experiences include two-tank morning dives in the Gulf of Papagayo for certified divers, guided snorkel tours, and pool-based refresh sessions paired with morning dives led by multilingual PADI instructors. Dive insurance is available through DAN short-term plans covering 1–30 day options with incremental coverage levels. First Aid and other safety courses are offered.
Rich Coast Diving emphasizes safety, certifications recognized worldwide, and field-based conservation training in biodiverse Pacific waters. The center serves divers of all levels seeking professional training, wildlife encounters, or career-focused internships in Costa Rica.
Location
Coco, Guanacaste
Located in Guanacaste Province
Tours & Courses
26+
Dives, courses, and internships
Certifications
PADI & SSI
Worldwide-recognized training
Insurance Range
$20–$60 USD
Short-term DAN coverage options
Secure a spot for guided dives, specialty courses, or multi-week internships—short-term DAN dive insurance available from $20 to $60 USD.
Keep Emergency Procedures Current
Master Scuba Diver training demands up-to-date knowledge of emergency protocols, so regularly refresh your rescue and first aid skills.
Equalize Early and Often
The diverse depth profiles around Playas del Coco require proactive ear equalization to prevent discomfort on descents.
Monitor Air Consumption Closely
Advanced dives push your limits—track your air supply carefully to ensure safe returns during longer bottom times.
Respect Local Marine Life
Avoid contact with coral and sea creatures; many are fragile or potentially harmful, preserving the ecosystem benefits all divers.
Full Wetsuit (3-5mm)
Protects from cooler thermoclines and stings while providing thermal comfort in Costa Rica's Pacific waters.
Dive Computer
Tracks depth and time to ensure safe decompression and air management during advanced dives.
Underwater Compass
Essential for mastering underwater navigation around complex reef formations.
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
Increases diver visibility during ascents or surface intervals in areas with boat traffic.