The Maldives has taken another step forward in advancing its diving credentials with the certification of the country’s first PADI Tec 50 Instructor Trainer.
Marc Kouwenberg, of Aquaventure TecRec Center in Addu Atoll, completed his Instructor Trainer program in Dubai in 2025-marking a breakthrough moment for the local diving industry and technical training standards.
From the perspective of Maldives hospitality and tourism partners, this achievement is highly significant. For the first time, a Maldivian dive centre is able to offer PADI Technical Diving Courses all the way up to the instructor level, strengthening the country’s reputation as an emerging hub for advanced technical diving.
Strengthening the Maldives’ Diving Education Capability
Aquaventure TecRec Center already holds the title of being the first PADI Technical Dive Center in the country. With this new qualification, the centre can now:
- Train and certify technical diving instructors within the Maldives
- Offer higher-level educational pathways for local and international professionals
- Support growth in niche segments like deep, cave, and rebreather diving
For dive operators and resorts, this development expands the talent pool and opens new opportunities for technical dive programming across the southern atolls.
A Commitment to World-Class Standards
According to Aquaventure, having a Tec 50 Instructor Trainer on their team means advanced training can be delivered without sending divers abroad-an important step toward self-sufficiency in specialized dive education.
For the Maldivian tourism sector, this aligns with a wider trend: as travellers seek unique marine experiences, the demand for technical diving continues to rise. With untouched reefs, deep channels, and historical wrecks, Addu is becoming one of the country’s most attractive regions for experienced divers.
About Aquaventure TecRec Center
Situated in Addu, the Maldives’ southernmost atoll, Aquaventure offers a full spectrum of recreational and technical training, guided dives, and exploration programs. The centre is well-known for pristine dive sites, diverse marine life, and access to unique underwater formations ideal for advanced diving.
LGM Perspective
As a leading travel partner in the Maldives, Lets Go Maldives sees this milestone as a major boost for the country’s underwater tourism offerings. The addition of professional-level technical training enhances destination credibility and attracts a highly specialized segment of divers.
Resorts and partners operating in the south stand to benefit from increased interest in technical expeditions, custom dive itineraries, and long-stay training programs.
For travel partners, resorts, or diving professionals interested in working with technical diving packages in Addu, our team is happy to assist.
