Ready to take your diving skills to the next level while making a real difference for the ocean? Our PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) in Nassau, The Bahamas combines world-class instructor training with hands-on marine conservation experience. You'll earn your PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) certification alongside five specialty instructor certifications, including coral restoration training with the Reef Rescue Network.
IDC students celebrate a successful skills demonstration during pool training
Why Train With Us?
We built this IDC around the idea that divers can make a significant impact on ocean conservation. Beyond earning your instructor certification, you'll gain the knowledge and credentials to teach others about marine protection. Training at the Perry Institute for Marine Science means you'll learn from leading coral restoration specialists and train at actual coral nurseries in Bahamian waters.
Recent IDC graduates celebrate their PADI Instructor certification in Nassau
5 Specialty Instructor Certifications Included
- Reef Rescue Diver (Coral Restoration Distinctive Specialty) with the Reef Rescue Network
- Dive Against Debris
- AWARE Shark Conservation
- Sea Turtle Awareness
- Emergency Oxygen Provider
Hands-On Conservation Training
This isn't just classroom theory. You'll gain real-world experience in conservation efforts that directly support coral reef ecosystems. Working alongside Perry Institute for Marine Science coral restoration specialists, you'll learn coral nursery maintenance techniques and outplanting methods that you can apply and teach throughout your diving career.
IDC students head out for open water training in Bahamian waters
As part of your IDC, you'll also become a certified Emergency First Response Instructor (EFRI). This essential qualification allows you to teach CPR, first aid, and emergency care in diving contexts and beyond.
Who Should Apply?
This IDC is ideal for divers who want to teach while making a tangible impact on ocean conservation. Whether you're an experienced diver looking to transition into instruction or relatively new to the professional dive scene, if you care about protecting marine ecosystems and want to inspire others to do the same, this course is designed for you.
Prerequisites
Before applying, please confirm you meet the following requirements:
- PADI Divemaster certification, OR instructor/leadership-level certification in good standing with another recognized training organization
- Minimum 60 logged dives with documented experience in night diving, deep diving, and underwater navigation
- At least 18 years old
- Medical clearance for dive fitness, signed by a physician within the past 12 months
- Certified diver for at least six months
- EFR Primary and Secondary Care course (or equivalent) completed within the last 24 months
- If not a PADI Divemaster: successful completion of the PADI Divemaster course diver rescue skills assessment
Training Location
You'll train at Blue Ocean, a PADI 5 Star IDC Center located at Albany Resort on the southwest coast of New Providence. The Bahamas offers exceptional dive conditions: crystal-clear visibility, vibrant coral reefs, Caribbean reef sharks, and healthy sea turtle populations. It's the perfect environment to develop your skills and build confidence as an instructor.
Shark conservation specialty training with Caribbean reef sharks
What's Included
- All OWSI and EFRI training requirements (classroom, pool, and open water sessions)
- All PADI OWSI and EFRI course materials and eLearning
- PADI OWSI and EFRI application fees
- Five PADI Instructor Specialty courses including all training
Not Included
- Flights to Nassau (New Providence, The Bahamas)
- Accommodation and meals
- Local transportation to and from the IDC Center (car hire or rideshare recommended)
- Instructor Examination (IE) fee
Ready to Get Started?
Space is limited for each session. For more information about the course, accommodation recommendations, and local transport options, contact our PADI Course Director Kate Harrison. She'll be your instructor throughout the program and is happy to answer any questions.
Email Kate HarrisonIf you're looking for a meaningful way to turn your passion for the ocean into a career that combines teaching and conservation, this IDC offers a unique path forward. Train in one of the world's most beautiful dive destinations while building the skills to protect it. Explore more of our education and training programs to see how you can get involved with marine conservation in The Bahamas.