The PADI Divemaster course at Ollava is run as an experience-driven program focused on real-world diving rather than simulated scenarios. The course consists of 30 training days, but is best completed over a 3–6 month period, with candidates typically attending over weekends. This allows for meaningful exposure to changing conditions, real guests, and the practical realities of guiding dives in Cape Town.

The fastest the course can be completed is two months. Certain performance requirements depend on suitable ocean conditions and real guest interaction, and we do not simulate guests or training scenarios to accelerate the process. When conditions do not allow for diving, guests are not taken into the water, and Divemaster candidates cannot simply “log time” to progress.

Training places a strong emphasis on teamwork, situational awareness, and personal responsibility. The course leans on a DIR-influenced team approach, with candidates first learning to function effectively within a dive team before progressing to guiding certified divers. Guests are treated as part of the team, and Divemasters are trained to plan and conduct dives with this mindset.

Divemaster candidates are expected to have their own personal (soft) equipment, with personal hard gear strongly recommended. Hard-gear rental is not included in the course price and is available at an additional cost.