Why Choose Sairee Cottage for Your PADI Divemaster on Koh Tao

At Sairee Cottage Diving, we’ve created a Divemaster program that goes far beyond the minimum PADI standards. You’ll receive world-class training, real-life internship experience, and personal mentoring—all while enjoying the incredible lifestyle of Koh Tao.

Why students choose us:

• Extra assists & leadership practice – Assist multiple PADI Open Water, Advanced, and Rescue courses.
• Workshops & mentoring – Dive briefings, mapping, search & recovery, and dive leadership training.
• Marine conservation focus – Eco lectures, reef cleanups, and conservation projects included.
• Quality facilities – Air-conditioned classrooms, private dive boat, beachfront resort, swimming pool.
• Perfect balance – Medium-sized dive school with enough candidates for social life, but small enough for personal attention.

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Meet Your Mentors – Martin Walsh & Marcel van den Berg

Training as a PADI Divemaster on Koh Tao means learning from mentors who genuinely care about your success. At Sairee Cottage Diving, your course is led by PADI Master Instructor Martin Walsh and PADI Platinum Course Director Marcel van den Berg. Together, we ensure your Divemaster and IDC training connect seamlessly for consistent, high-quality results.

Why our mentoring makes the difference

• Dedicated Divemaster Mentor – Martin guides your day-to-day training.
• IDC Integration – Marcel adds sessions on PADI Standards, Risk Management, and career preparation.
• Balanced teaching team – Practical skills + long-term career focus combined.

A Message from Martin Walsh
“Hi everyone, I’m Martin. Originally from Essex in England, I’ve called Thailand home for nearly 10 years. I first came to Koh Tao in 2014, fell in love with diving again, and decided to complete my Divemaster here at Sairee Cottage. That decision changed my life. After continuing through the IDC, I was offered a job here—and now I’m proud to mentor new Divemaster candidates like you. The ocean is my office, and I couldn’t be happier.”

A Message from Marcel van den Berg
“Nice to meet you! I’m Marcel, a PADI Platinum Course Director with over two decades of experience teaching Divemasters and Instructors. My mission has always been to prepare divers for real success in the dive industry—not just certification. At Sairee Cottage Diving, you’ll get a mix of personal mentoring, professional standards, and plenty of fun. Whether your goal is to work in diving or simply have the experience of a lifetime, I can’t wait to welcome you to Koh Tao.”

Meet the Support Team:

Divemaster Course Outline & Training Modules

The Divemaster course on Koh Tao at Sairee Cottage Diving covers all the essentials you need to become a dive leader, plus extra workshops to sharpen your skills.

What you will learn

• Dive theory – Physics, physiology, decompression, equipment, environment.
• Water skills – Swim tests, rescue scenarios, and equipment exchange.
• Practical training – Mapping, search & recovery, dive site briefings.
• Leadership – Assist PADI courses and supervise certified divers.

Theory & PADI Standards

We teach all eLearning sections live, not just self-study. This makes theory more practical and meaningful. We also introduce parts of IDC theory to prepare you for the future. Martin teaches most presentations, while Marcel delivers a unique PADI Standards & Risk Management session.

Water Skills & Swim Tests

You’ll complete the 5 core stamina tests:

1. 400m swim – nonstop without aids.
2. 15-minute tread – hands out for the last 2 minutes.
3. 800m snorkel swim – mask, fins, snorkel, nonstop.
4. 100m inert diver tow – fully equipped buddy.
5. Equipment exchange stress test – swap gear while neutrally buoyant.

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Workshops, Mapping & Search and Recovery

Some of the most fun elements of the course! You’ll practice:

• Search & recovery lifts
• Dive site mapping
• Leading certified divers
• Dive briefings
• Assisting PADI courses
• Conducting refreshers & DSD workshops

We also include extra workshops like Navigation, Buoyancy, Night Diving, Risk Management, and Equipment. Personal lessons are available at no extra cost.

Dive Sites for Divemaster Training on Koh Tao

Koh Tao is home to more than 26 dive sites, making it one of the best training grounds in the world for Divemasters. Each site offers unique conditions to prepare you for supervising certified divers and leading groups in real-world scenarios.

Popular sites you’ll explore during your training:

• Chumphon Pinnacle – deep dive fundamentals: navigation in open water, managing buoyancy at depth, fish ID.
• Shark Island – current training & topography: handling surge, positioning, pace setting under pressure.
• White Rock – briefings, navigation & night dives: planning, mapping, low-light buoyancy, and communication.
• Twins – confidence under pressure: supervising Open Water students, maintaining group control and situational awareness.
• Green Rock – swim-throughs & situational awareness: spatial awareness, approach and exit techniques, trim control.

Read more about all the Koh Tao dive sites here.

Internship Experience & Real-World Practice

At Sairee Cottage Diving, your PADI Divemaster internship isn’t just classroom learning—it’s hands-on training in real dive operations.

During your internship, you’ll:

• Assist real PADI courses like Open Water, Advanced, and Rescue Diver.
• Lead certified divers under instructor supervision.
• Practice supervising dive site logistics and group safety.
• Gain experience in equipment preparation, boat handling, and customer service.
• Develop the confidence to manage real-world scenarios.

This approach ensures you leave Koh Tao not only certified but work-ready.

Entry Requirements & Prerequisites for Divemaster Training

To enroll in the PADI Divemaster course, you need:

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Certification as a PADI Rescue Diver (or equivalent).
• Current EFR (First Aid & CPR) within the last 24 months.
• At least 40 logged dives to start and 60 to finish.

Missing something? No problem. We can include any required courses, dives, or refreshers before you begin.

Need to complete your PADI Rescue Diver or EFR (First Aid & CPR) before starting? …

Accommodation Options During Your Divemaster Internship

We make it easy for you to find the right place to stay during your training.

Options include:

• Go Pro Dorm – Just 300 THB per night. Affordable, convenient and social accommodation where you can meet fellow Divemaster and IDC candidates, make friends and enjoy our Go Pro community. Spaces are limited, so book early!

• Long-term rentals – apartments and houses ranging from 6,000–30,000 THB/month. We’ll help you find options when you arrive.

• Resort stay – stay in Sairee Cottage Resort with a 10% professional-course discount.

• Nearby hotels & hostels – bookable via Agoda or Booking.com.

Want to see more about our resort and long-term rentals? Check our Accommodation at Sairee Cottage.

We make it easy for you to find the right place to stay during your training.

Want to see more about our resort and long-term rentals? Check our Accommodation at Sairee Cottage.

Conservation & Eco-Conscious Divemaster Training

Our Divemaster program on Koh Tao isn’t just about diving—it’s about protecting the ocean. At Sairee Cottage Diving, eco-awareness is built into your training.

Eco activities included:

• Project AWARE workshops – plastic pollution, marine debris, shark conservation.
• Eco Days & cleanups – reef and beach cleanups with our conservation team.
• CoralWatch surveys & lectures – learn reef monitoring skills.
• Sustainable practices – 100% Project AWARE center, reducing single-use plastics.

Learn more … Eco-Friendly Diving at Sairee Cottage.

Duration & Start Dates for the PADI Divemaster Course

The Divemaster course on Koh Tao is flexible and designed to fit your schedule.

• Typical duration: 6–8 weeks (2 months ideal for full internship experience).
• Includes unlimited diving during your stay.
• Rolling start dates – begin whenever you’re ready.
• Seasonal tip: December–April and June–September are busier, while other months are quieter.

Divemaster Course Cost on Koh Tao

Becoming a PADI Divemaster on Koh Tao is a smart investment in your future dive career. We believe in full transparency—so here’s exactly what you can expect to pay, with no hidden surprises.

Standard Divemaster Course Cost

• PADI Divemaster Course fee: 39,900 THB
• PADI Crew Pack (eLearning + slates/materials): 9,990 THB
• PADI application fee: 286 AUD (paid directly to PADI at the end of your course)
• Total: 50,800 THB + 286 AUD

This price includes unlimited diving, personal mentoring, and all training required to qualify as a PADI Divemaster.

Option	Includes	Price
Standard Divemaster Course	Course fee (39,900 THB) + PADI Crew Pack (9,990 THB). + PADI application fee: 284 AUD (paid directly to PADI at the end)	50,800 THB + 286 AUD

Divemaster Packages

If you’re not yet at the Rescue Diver level, don’t worry—we offer full training pathways that take you step by step to Divemaster:

• Open Water Diver → Divemaster: 84,090 THB
• Advanced Open Water Diver → Divemaster: 73,290 THB
• Rescue Diver (with EFR) → Divemaster: 64,290 THB

Package	Pathway	Price (THB)
OW → Divemaster	PADI Open Water Diver to Divemaster	84,090
AOW → Divemaster	PADI Advanced Open Water Diver to Divemaster	73,290
Rescue + EFR → Divemaster	PADI Rescue Diver (with EFR) to Divemaster	64,290

✔ IDC Combination Packages are also available. Contact us directly for custom pathways to become a PADI Instructor.

What’s Included in Your PADI Divemaster Course Price

Your PADI Divemaster course fee on Koh Tao covers not only your training, but also dorm accommodation without a rental charge, unlimited diving, conservation extras, and added benefits.

Included in your course fee:

• Use of recreational dive equipment for all training.
• Unlimited fun diving around Koh Tao.
• Free Wi-Fi access at the dive school and dorms.
• Unlimited drinking water during training days.
• Access to all Sairee Cottage facilities (classrooms, pool, beach).
• Extra marine conservation lectures as part of your training.
• Exclusive “How to Lead a Night Dive” workshop, unique to Sairee Cottage.
• Free Sairee Cottage Diving T-shirt and mask strap.
• Complimentary Divemaster dry bag.
• 50% discount at a local fitness gym.
• Discounts on dive equipment purchases.

Price & Dive Equipment Packages

During your PADI Divemaster course on Koh Tao at Sairee Cottage Diving, we provide free use of our high-quality rental equipment. The only items you’ll need to purchase yourself are a dive knife, SMB (Surface Marker Buoy), and a small torch which can easily be bought at the shop.

While rental gear is perfectly fine for training, most dive professionals eventually invest in their own set of equipment. Owning your own gear makes you more comfortable, helps you perform consistently, and is a requirement for nearly all dive industry jobs worldwide. That’s why we offer three specially designed Dive Equipment Packages to suit every budget.

Equipment Packages

Manta Package – 42,004 THB
A very affordable way to kick-start your dive career with reliable, professional gear.

Aqua Package – 56,184 THB (Most Popular Choice)
A balanced option with high-quality equipment at an affordable price—perfect for long-term professionals.

Triton Package – 70,764 THB
Premium, high-end dive equipment for those who want maximum comfort and durability.

Special Extras

• 20% pre-order discount when you book your gear package with your Divemaster course.
• Flexible: you can swap or adjust items upon arrival to get exactly what you want.
• Additional items such as ScubaPro wetsuits and Suunto dive computers are also available separately.

Package	Description	Price (THB)
Manta	Affordable starter kit with reliable gear for new Divemasters.	42,004
Aqua ★ Most Popular	Balanced, high-quality equipment designed for long-term professionals.	56,184
Triton	Premium, high-end gear offering maximum comfort and durability.	70,764

✔ 20% discount when pre-ordered with your Divemaster course. ✔ Flexible: swap or adjust items on arrival. ✔ Additional ScubaPro wetsuits & Suunto computers available separately.

Note: when using shop rental gear, you’ll need your own dive knife and SMB (safety sausage). Ask us about discounted gear packages for Divemaster candidates.

Go Beyond with PADI Specialties at Sairee Cottage Diving

To become highly employable in the dive industry, specialties make a huge difference. At Sairee Cottage Diving, you can take extra PADI Specialty Courses during your Divemaster internship.

Popular specialties we offer:

• Deep Diver – Extend your limit to 40m.
• Wreck Diver – Learn safe wreck penetration techniques.
• Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx) – Extend your no-decompression limits.
• Emergency Oxygen Provider – Must-have for professional rescue readiness.
• Sidemount Diver – Train with two tanks, extend air, and practice advanced techniques.

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Adding specialties not only improves your skills but can also qualify you as a PADI Master Scuba Diver, the highest level in recreational diving. Contact us for a special package price.

Career Support & Next Steps After Divemaster

Completing your Divemaster course on Koh Tao is the start of your career in diving. At Sairee Cottage Diving, we provide ongoing career support.

We help you with:

• Job placement guidance – CV/resume support & interview tips.
• Industry connections – Our global reputation gives you an advantage.
• On-island work opportunities – Possible with us depending on season & performance.
• IDC preparation – Smooth transition into the Instructor Development Course.
• Ongoing mentoring – Even after you leave, we’re here to help.

Thinking about becoming a dive instructor? Continue your pro journey with our PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) on Koh Tao.

FAQ – PADI Divemaster Course Koh Tao

What is the duration of the Divemaster course on Koh Tao?

The PADI Divemaster course at Sairee Cottage Diving usually takes between 6–8 weeks. Two months is ideal, as it gives us plenty of time to cover all required PADI standards and much more. We provide extra lectures, personal mentoring, and real-life internship experience so you’re ready to work or continue straight to the PADI IDC.

How many dives are required to complete the Divemaster course?

You need a minimum of 60 logged dives to complete the PADI Divemaster course. At Sairee Cottage Diving, unlimited dives are included during your training so you’ll gain plenty of experience.

What water skills tests are included (swim, tow, float)?

The course includes five core stamina tests:

1. 400m swim without aids.
2. 15-minute tread, hands out for the last 2 minutes.
3. 800m snorkel swim using mask, fins, snorkel.
4. 100m inert diver tow at the surface, fully equipped.
5. Equipment Exchange (Stress Test) underwater with a buddy.

What theory modules are covered during training?

We teach all PADI Divemaster eLearning sections live to make theory meaningful and interactive. Topics include Dive Physics, Physiology, Decompression Theory, Dive Skills & Environment, Dive Equipment, and PADI Standards.

Can I join at any time or are there fixed start dates?

You can start your PADI Divemaster course on Koh Tao at any time of year. Just tell us your preferred start date, and we’ll have everything ready.

What is included in the course fee (equipment, accommodation, meals)?

Your fee includes:

• Dorm accommodation with no rental charge (300 THB/day contribution toward utilities, facilities and dorm upkeep).
• Use of rental dive equipment (except SMB & knife).
• Unlimited diving.
• Free Wi-Fi and drinking water.
• Discounts on dive gear purchases.

Where do I stay during the internship on Koh Tao?

Accommodation options:

• Go Pro Dorm – Just 300 THB per night. Affordable, convenient and social accommodation where you can meet fellow Divemaster and IDC candidates, make friends and enjoy our Go Pro community. Spaces are limited, so book early!
• Long-term rentals (6,000–30,000 THB/month).
• Resort stay with 10% professional discount (saireecottagekohtao@gmail.com ).
• Hotels/hostels nearby via Agoda or Booking.com.

Who teaches the course and what is Martin Walsh’s role?

The main mentor is PADI Master Instructor Martin Walsh, supported by PADI Platinum Course Director Marcel van den Berg and our experienced team.

What is the student-to-instructor ratio?

We usually have 5–15 candidates training at a time. Numbers fluctuate, but we always maintain a healthy balance for personal attention and social experience.

What dive sites will I visit during training?

You’ll dive at Koh Tao’s best sites, including Chumphon Pinnacle, Shark Island, White Rock, Twins, and Green Rock.

Will I assist other PADI courses or just take dives?

You’ll assist real PADI courses like Open Water, Advanced, and Rescue Diver alongside unlimited fun diving.

How does Sairee Cottage ensure training quality?

All staff follow PADI standards, and we go above and beyond with regular mentoring checks by Martin and Marcel.

Are there job placement or career services?

Yes—while we cannot guarantee jobs, we provide job guidance, industry connections, and mentoring. There may also be work opportunities with us depending on season and performance.

What prerequisites do I need before starting the course?

You must be 18 years old, a Rescue Diver (or equivalent), have a current EFR, and at least 40 logged dives. You can complete any missing prerequisites with us.

How does the Koh Tao Divemaster course compare to other destinations?

Koh Tao offers a huge variety of dive sites, year-round diving, and a vibrant island lifestyle. Many legendary dive pros started their careers here.

What safety protocols are in place?

We maintain one of the safest, best-maintained dive centers on Koh Tao. You’ll also learn how to uphold these standards as a future dive professional.

Do I receive official PADI certification after completion?

Yes—upon completion you’ll be certified as a PADI Divemaster. The PADI application fee (275 AUD) is paid directly to PADI.

Can I extend the internship for more dives?

Yes—our 2-month internship includes unlimited diving. If you continue to the IDC, you’ll log even more dives and teaching practice.

What marine life and visibility can I expect on Koh Tao?

Expect to see turtles, whale sharks, barracudas, angelfish, and vibrant reef life. Visibility is typically 10–30m depending on season.

How do I sign up and what is the cancellation policy?

Signing up is simple—contact us via our form or email. We offer 100% refund on courses and packages in case of cancellation (see policy for details).

Start Your PADI Divemaster Journey Today

Choosing to become a PADI Divemaster on Koh Tao is the start of a new lifestyle and career path. At Sairee Cottage Diving, we’ll guide you with professional training, personal mentoring, and a supportive dive community.

👉 Contact us today to discuss your start date, accommodation, and packages.
Your next dive could be the first of an incredible new career.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Sairee Cottage Diving family.

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