What is the Average Scuba Diving Instructor Salary? Dive Pro Tips.
If you’re dreaming about becoming a scuba instructor, you’ve probably wondered how much you can earn. The truth is, a scuba diving instructor salary varies greatly depending on several key factors. But with the right approach and mindset, this career can offer a solid income and an unforgettable lifestyle. Not only do you get to dive daily, but you also get to live and work in some of the most beautiful destinations on the planet.
Is It Worth Becoming a Scuba Instructor?
Absolutely. Becoming a diving instructor is one of the most rewarding paths you can take. Picture this: your office is the ocean, your job is to share the underwater world, and your lifestyle revolves around nature and adventure. Teaching diving is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. Every new diver you train is someone you’ve helped experience something truly life-changing. Plus, when you’re in the right location and work with a supportive team, the financial rewards start to match the emotional ones. You may not become rich overnight, but you gain freedom, travel opportunities, and a quality of life few other jobs can offer.
How Much Do Diving Instructors Make?
Diving instructor salaries can differ dramatically. Some entry-level instructors might earn around $500 per month, especially in remote or less-visited areas. In contrast, experienced professionals in high-traffic locations can earn $3,000 to $4,000 or more. On average, most instructors make about $1500-2,000 monthly. This number can increase based on your experience, additional certifications, and sales skills. If you can teach specialties, manage dive centers, or offer private instruction (with SSI you will still have to be affiliated to a dive centre), your earning potential jumps significantly. The best earners are often those who offer value beyond the basic Open Water course.
Commission-Based vs Fixed Salary
Most dive centers pay instructors on commission. This means you earn a percentage of each course you teach or dive you guide. Typically, this commission is about 20% of the total course fee. This system works great in busy locations with lots of students. The more you teach, the more you earn. During high seasons, your salary can skyrocket.
On the other hand, fixed salaries provide financial stability. These are more common in resorts or dive shops with structured staff setups. While they offer predictable income, usually around $1000-1,500 a month, they don’t offer the same earning potential as commission-based setups during busy periods. Some dive centers such as Ocean Tribe, also use a hybrid system—a base salary with commission bonuses for dive course students or sales.
Attitude Makes All the Difference
Your attitude directly impacts your income. Instructors who approach their work with energy, professionalism, and a smile usually do better. Customers enjoy learning from someone who is enthusiastic and passionate. Happy students are more likely to sign up for extra courses, buy gear, and recommend their instructor to others.
Those who struggle often overlook how their attitude affects their success. A poor mindset, lack of enthusiasm, or inability to connect with students can quickly lead to fewer teaching opportunities. Employers and dive shop managers notice this. On the flip side, a great attitude opens doors. Instructors with the right approach often move up into management roles or become highly requested by customers.
Location Can Make or Break Your Earnings
Where you choose to work is one of the biggest factors in your potential earnings. Popular dive destinations with high numbers of beginner divers will offer the best opportunities. Places like Koh Tao in Thailand, the Gili Islands in Indonesia, Roatan in Honduras, Diani Beach in Kenya, or Cairns, Australia see consistent tourist traffic. This means more courses and more income.
In contrast, pristine but remote dive locations might offer fewer chances to teach. They tend to attract experienced divers rather than beginners. While fun dives are enjoyable to guide, they don’t pay as well as certification courses. Working in remote locations can also make it harder to find year-round employment.
Cruise ships, liveaboards, and superyachts also offer attractive salaries. These roles often include accommodation and meals, allowing you to save more of your income. These jobs are competitive, but for the right candidate, they offer a fantastic way to earn and travel the world.
Skills That Boost Your Diving Instructor Salary
Extra skills can set you apart from the crowd. If you can market courses, repair equipment, manage dive center operations, or even help with a dive center’s website or social media, you instantly become more valuable. Employers are more likely to hire and retain instructors who contribute beyond the water.
You can also use your free time to earn through side gigs. Some instructors teach yoga, offer massages, do freelance design work, or work online. This not only boosts your income but gives you flexibility if diving slows down during low season. Versatility is a major asset in the diving industry.
So, How Much Can You Expect?
With the right attitude, solid skills, and a smart choice of location, you can expect to earn around $2000-2,500 per month as a diving instructor. Some months may be slower, especially during off-peak seasons, but others will more than make up for it. Upselling courses and gear, teaching specialties, and managing logistics can all increase your income.
Being a diving instructor isn’t just about money—it’s about lifestyle. But when you work smart, the money follows. You’ll earn enough to live well, save a little, and enjoy the kind of life most people only dream about on holiday.
