Divemaster vs Master Scuba Diver... What's the Difference?

This is something that a lot of people are often confused about it. I have heard people say they want to become a divemaster when what they really want to become is a master scuba diver, and vice versa. So, what's the difference?

A master scuba diver is the highest recreational scuba diving certification offered by PADI. It's more of an elite rank that sets you apart from other divers. This credential demands respect among other divers and proves that you are an experienced diver. Less than two percent of divers achieve this level of certification.

To become a master scuba diver you need to earn your PADI Open Water Diver certification, followed by PADI Advanced Open Water Diver and PADI Rescue Diver (or qualifying certifications). You also need to earn at least five PADI Specialty Diver certifications and have logged a minimum of 50 dives.

So, what's a divemaster then? A PADI Divemaster is the first professional level within the PADI System of diver education and allows you to:  

• Supervise certified divers during pleasure diving experiences
• Supervise training and non-training related diving activities
• Conduct dive briefings, scuba reviews, and skin diver courses
• Assist in Discover Scuba Diving programs and lead additional dives

If your dream is to work on a dive boat and lead divers on their underwater adventures, then you want to be a divemaster.