I’ve wanted to become a Divemaster for a while but ultimately I decided to do my Divemaster course because I want to be really comfortable with diving. I think understanding the theory behind diving and getting to dive everyday for so long gives me important experience and familiarity with the whole process in a way that I have never had before.

I started my Divemaster course in Lembongan on the 4th of July. I was quite anxious and didn’t really know what to expect but I’ve had such a warm welcome from the entire team and I feel very lucky to be able to learn from all of them on a daily basis! It’s such a good feeling to be part of a team and feel like I contribute a little bit though I only carry one tank (the guys are tough, carrying 3-4!)

When I first started four weeks ago I was a little bit insecure because I have always been diving once or twice a year on holidays with long breaks in between but I can feel myself becoming more confident each day which is an awesome feeling.

It’s been hard work though! Despite being out of the water for a while due to an ear infection, there’s been plenty to do. Every morning we load the boat, prepare equipment and on the boat I practice briefings. After diving there’s been theory, workshops, observations on courses like ReActive, Discover Scuba Diving or skills practice in the pool.

I have always loved diving but I can honestly say I love it even more than before because I’ve been diving so much here and improving my underwater techniques and learning about physics and physiology which I find is much easier to understand because I can see it in practice. I gain experience so quick because I get exposed to so many different situations every day so I automatically become better equipped for all sorts of situations.

I chose Lembongan because I’ve been here before and I felt really comfortable and well looked after. Everyone is nice which is important when you have to be part of a team for a while. Apart from that, the diving here is amazing. The coral reefs are absolutely beautiful and the water is very clear. We see manta rays and we’re slowly approaching mola season so fingers crossed I get to see one before I leave. I’m excited for the last few weeks!