Before becoming a dive professional, I was already working in marine research as a marine biologist. Diving was part of my job, and I had completed FFESSM Level 4 in France, essentially a Divemaster-level certification. But there was a limitation: that path did not really allow me to work internationally as a dive professional. That is what pushed me to look seriously at SSI.
Why I Chose to Go Pro (Again)
Switching to SSI professional training was not just about getting one more certification. It was about making my skills practical and recognized worldwide.
Compared with other systems, SSI offered something that made sense for me in terms of flexibility, cost, and the way the training is structured.
Training in Dauin with La Tortue
I chose La Tortue Diving in Dauin, and honestly, that environment made a huge difference. Dauin is a small, laid-back town. Compared with my short stay in Panglao for the Instructor Examination, the contrast felt sharp. Dauin is much more relaxed, less crowded, and ideal when you need to focus on training.
At La Tortue, the facilities are efficiently prepared and we have access to outdoor and indoor classrooms as well as a swimming pool nearby. What stood out most was the team. It is a very professional environment, but also a supportive one. Dive pros help each other, and that creates a really positive atmosphere when you are going through intensive training.
Learning Across Languages
One other thing that mattered a lot for me was language.
I was able to do my Divemaster training in French, which made the learning process smoother in the beginning. At the same time, the team is flexible, and French instructors can switch between French and English depending on what you need.
During the Instructor Training Course (ITC), all sessions were conducted in English so the training stays aligned with the reality of working internationally. I still had the option to clarify certain concepts in French when needed. I was fortunate to complete my ITC in-house with Camille Detavernier, Instructor Trainer at La Tortue. Many candidates need to travel to other islands to find an Instructor Training Center, so having that opportunity on-site made the process much more convenient and accessible.
Real Experience, Not Just Theory
During my time with La Tortue, I logged around 250 dives, including 71 dives during my Divemaster training alone.
What I appreciated most is that the training was not just theoretical. I was able to apply what I learned in real-life situations by guiding dives, assisting students, and building confidence step by step.
The Instructor Training itself was intense but well structured: about two weeks of daily pool sessions and classroom work, with a rest day in between. It is demanding, but it prepares you properly.
What Comes Next
After becoming an instructor, the journey does not stop there.
The next step for me is to continue with specialty certifications, which open even more opportunities.
At the end of March, I will be leaving the Philippines. By October, I expect to have an opportunity in Indonesia to train my girlfriend, who is already a Rescue diver with Deep and Nitrox specialties, and help her gain more experience. Eventually I may be able to guide her toward becoming a Divemaster. After that, who knows, we could come back to the Philippines.
Looking Back
What I really appreciated about La Tortue is the balance between professionalism and atmosphere.
The team is skilled, supportive, and genuinely invested in your progress. Everything is organized with guest experience in mind while never losing sight of safety.
More than that, it is a place where you feel encouraged to grow into the role.
If You Are Thinking About It
If you are hesitating about becoming a dive professional, I understand. I was already in the industry, and I still had doubts about taking this step.
But if your goal is to work in diving, travel, and build a career around the ocean, getting the right training makes all the difference. You do not need to have everything figured out. You just need to start.
For me, choosing to do my Divemaster and Instructor training with La Tortue Diving turned a limitation into an opportunity and opened the door to a completely new chapter.
Take the step. You might be closer than you think.
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