PADI® teams up with several dive equipment manufacturers to launch an unprecedented diver referral program to drive industry growth. PADI provides unparalleled support to its global membership base and industry by launching the Refer A Friend campaign – a referral program that encourages scuba divers to recruit their friends and family as their new dive buddies with added incentives of scuba gear and a grand prize trip for two to one of Sandals Resorts’ three locations in Saint Lucia.
“PADI is investing in creating more business for our members and the diving industry as a whole, this time inviting scuba diving gear manufacturers to take part, which they have enthusiastically joined,” explains Kristin Valette Wirth, Chief Brand and Membership Officer for PADI Worldwide.
“It’s a true testament to the strength and solidarity of the diving industry when so many stakeholders come together to support the need to stimulate business for all. We are stronger together, and the latest diver referral campaign demonstrates it.”
A Data-Driven and Diver-Backed Program
New diver surveys indicate that word-of-mouth remains the number one influencer in a person’s decision to become a diver. In fact, 52% of newly certified PADI Divers cite a friend or family member as a key influencer in their decision to get certified.
“This referral program taps into the genuine excitement divers feel about sharing the underwater world with others,” says Valette Wirth. “We’re making it easy and rewarding for divers of all levels to invite friends and family into the world’s largest community of ocean lovers and rewarding them every step of the way.”
The newly updated global referral program is designed to send new diving recruits to the 6,600 PADI Dive Centers and Resorts and 128,000 PADI Professionals using word-of-mouth from the 30 million certified PADI Divers around the world.
Several top gear manufacturers—including TUSA, Fourth Element, SUUNTO, Garmin International and Shearwater Research. —will join the campaign, with Sandals Resorts presenting the grand prize.
Each month, both referrers and referees will have the chance to win a curated selection of branded scuba gear to fuel their passion for diving. The diver who refers the most new PADI Divers in 2025 will win the ultimate scuba getaway: a five-day, all-inclusive vacation for two at any Sandals resort in Saint Lucia, including Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Regency La Toc, and Sandals Halcyon.
How the Referral Program Works
Starting today, PADI Divers can log into their PADI Account to send referral links to friends and family and will be able to:
- Receive 20% off PADI continuing education eLearning when a friend enrolls in Open Water Diver eLearning.
- Earn one entry into a monthly prize draw for new scuba gear for each friend referred.
- Be entered into the grand prize competition for a 5-day all-inclusive vacation for two to any Sandals Resorts property in Saint Lucia
Potential new diver candidates who are referred will:
- Receive 20% off PADI Open Water Diver eLearning when activating the referral link
- Earn one entry into the monthly prize draw of scuba gear
- Become eligible to refer others and earn additional entries
Industry Leaders Unite for the Future of Diving Together
More than just a campaign, it is a united movement across the dive industry to spark passion, drive participation and ultimately reinforce the shared belief that seeking adventure and saving the ocean is better when experienced together.
“We’re committed to growing a global community of dedicated divers—from open water beginners to advanced technical enthusiasts and believe every underwater experience can be safe, rewarding, and exceptional from day one,” says Jason Leggatt, CEO of Shearwater Research.
“Garmin’s cutting-edge dive products provide the technology and support adventurers need to explore below the surface,” says Audra Ratliff, Garmin Director of Product Marketing. “We remain committed to helping people pursue their passions and are proud to collaborate with PADI to create even more momentum and awareness for the diving industry and give divers the tools to reach even greater depths together.”
”At Suunto, we believe that exploration is more meaningful when it’s shared,” says Lena Bergendahl, Head of Dive Products at Suunto. “That’s why we’re proud to support this referral program— it aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire new adventures and grow the global dive community. “
“When we discover our love for diving and the ocean, most of us want to share it with others – I think we are just wired that way,” says Jim Standing, co-founder and CCO of Fourth Element. “This is a great way for Fourth Element to be part of growing a community of like-minded ocean adventurers and protecting our playground for the future.”
“At TUSA, we believe that the future of scuba diving lies in building a passionate and inclusive global community,” says Crystal Gutierrez, Marketing Manager at TUSA. “That’s why we’re proud to support PADI’s Refer A Friend Campaign—an initiative that speaks directly to the heart of what drives our sport: personal connection and shared adventure. By encouraging divers to bring friends and family into the underwater world, we’re not only growing the diving community but also inspiring a new generation of ocean advocates. Together with PADI and our industry peers, we hope to energize participation, deepen engagement, and ensure a vibrant future for scuba diving around the world.”
“Diving adds an entirely new dimension to a Caribbean getaway, while fostering connection, respect, and a deep sense of responsibility for the ocean,” says Michael Clarke, Corporate Director of Watersports at Sandals Resorts. “Through our longstanding partnership with PADI, we’ve certified nearly 150,000 divers at our on-resort dive shops across the Caribbean, and this referral program will invite even more guests to experience the magic of diving and help nurture the next generation of ocean ambassadors.”
“By encouraging students and divers to refer a friend and teaching more courses, we are sharing what we all love and helping ensure the underwater world remains accessible to all,” adds Valette Wirth.
PADI Members now have access to a dedicated marketing toolkit available on the Marketing Hub on the PADI Pro Site that supports this wider incentivization program.
To access the marketing toolkit visit the Marketing Hub on the PADI Pro Site.
Visit the PADI Pros Blog for more information on how to incorporate the referral program into your business and earn more for every certification issued.
About Sandals® Resorts Sandals® Resorts offers adults-only getaways that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Pioneers of the all-inclusive vacation experience in the region, Sandals has 17 beachfront resorts in Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Curaçao, and Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, each reflecting the genuine vibe of its island home. From local food favorites and global flavors to butler service and signature suites, including the Caribbean’s first Overwater Villas, Sandals makes it easy for guests to go all in on vacation mode. Beyond the resort gates, immersive destination experiences, like a newly piloted Island Inclusive dining program and MINI Coopers for island exploration, raise the bar on the all-inclusive vacation.
About Garmin International, Inc. Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminoutdoor on social, or follow our blog.
About Shearwater Research: Shearwater Research is a global leader in dive computers and diving electronics, renowned for delivering robust, intuitive products for divers across the world. Committed to excellence and technical diving, Shearwater has established itself as a trusted name in high-performance dive technology. www.shearwater.com
About Suunto Suunto has been at the forefront of exploration since 1936, creating precision instruments for adventurers around the world. From pioneering dive computers to durable sports watches, Suunto is trusted by divers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts who push their limits. With a commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability, Suunto empowers people to explore the world — above and below the surface. Learn more at www.suunto.com.
About TUSA For over 70 years, TUSA has been a global leader in the design and manufacturing of premium scuba diving equipment. Known for our commitment to innovation, comfort, and reliability, TUSA gear is trusted by divers around the world—from first-time explorers to seasoned professionals. Beyond product excellence, TUSA is deeply committed to ocean conservation and sustainability. Through partnerships, responsible manufacturing practices, and support for marine protection initiatives, we strive to protect the underwater world that inspires everything we do. At TUSA, our mission is simple: to empower every diver with high-quality gear while safeguarding the ocean for future generations. www.tusa.com
About Fourth Element Fourth Element is one of the leading brands of dive gear, renowned for innovation in product development in thermal protection for both wetsuit and drysuit diving, and in its approach to respect and protect the ocean environment that is our playground, through more sustainable product development, ranging from packaging to the use of recycled and natural materials, without compromising outstanding performance. Fourth Element’s mission is to inspire and enable divers to explore the underwater world with confidence and care, striving to create products that enhance the diving experience while promoting the health and sustainability of our oceans. The company believes that every dive is an opportunity to connect with the beauty of the underwater world and to contribute to its preservation. www.fourthelement.com
