Meet Manlio – Your Scuba Diving Instructor & Mentor
My journey as a scuba diving instructor began with a lifelong love for the ocean. Born in Palermo, Sicily, I grew up exploring the sea, competing in water sports, and chasing every challenge that kept me connected to the water. At 21, I took my first breath underwater—and I never looked back.
Since earning my PADI Pro certification in 2004, I’ve worked across the globe, from the coral-rich Red Sea to the untouched reefs of Palau, guiding and teaching divers at every level. Along the way, I’ve taken on many roles—instructor, mentor, photographer, manager, and conservationist—each shaping the dive professional I am today.
Now based in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, I’ve partnered with Scuba Playa and TheGoProOnline to continue what I love most: training the next generation of scuba professionals. As the founder of The Dive Trainer, I’ve built a platform dedicated to high-level dive education, career development, and mentorship. Whether in the ocean or the classroom, my mission is to share real experience, inspire growth, and shape skilled, confident, and passionate divers.
To support students from around the world, I teach in English, Spanish, French, and Italian.
Why Choose The Dive Trainer?



With more than 20 years of experience in the dive industry, I’ve guided, trained, and mentored divers at every level, from beginners to instructors. As a PADI Course Director and Silver Status Frequent Trainer, I bring expertise, passion, and a hands-on approach to every course. My training is more than just certifications—it's about building skilled, confident dive professionals ready for real-world challenges.
I’ve partnered with top-tier dive centers like Scuba Playa and TheGoProOnline, ensuring you train with the best facilities, experienced teams, and the highest safety standards. Whether you're starting your journey or advancing your career, you'll get world-class training, personalized mentorship, and access to an elite dive network.
Philosophy and Mission
The Dive Trainer Philosophy
At The Dive Trainer, diving is more than a profession—it’s a journey of discovery, adventure, and transformation. Our philosophy is built on three core values: Excellence, Leadership, and Ocean Stewardship.
We create an environment where divers grow, challenge themselves, and build lasting careers—not just in the water, but in life. Our training goes beyond technical skills, instilling confidence, leadership, and a deep respect for the ocean to prepare students for success in the dive industry.
We are dedicated to shaping professionals who are not only skilled instructors but also mentors, conservationists, and ambassadors for the underwater world. At The Dive Trainer, we teach our students to dive with purpose, lead with integrity, and inspire with passion, setting them on a path to long-term success in the diving industry.
The Dive Trainer Mission
Our mission is to train and mentor the next generation of dive professionals, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to build successful and fulfilling careers in the diving industry. We are dedicated to:
🌊 Providing world-class PADI training that develops confident, skilled, and safety-conscious divers.
🌟 Fostering leadership and mentorship, helping divers transition from students to inspiring educators.
🐠 Championing marine conservation, ensuring our graduates are not just professionals but ocean protectors.
🤝 Building a global dive community where professionals support and uplift each other.
🚀 Guiding career development, helping divers turn their passion into a lifelong, rewarding profession.
At The Dive Trainer, we don’t just certify divers—we create leaders, career-ready professionals, and passionate ocean advocates.
Over the years, I’ve reached key milestones in my dive career, earning the PADI Course Director rating and achieving Silver Status as a Frequent Trainer. My dedication to training top-level divers and instructors has shaped my journey, and I continue to grow alongside my students.
Discover my full list of PADI Achievements and explore the wide range of courses I teach—from beginner to pro. Whether you’re starting your dive adventure or advancing your career, there’s a course designed for you!
Protecting the ocean is more than a passion—it’s a responsibility. Throughout my career, I’ve been actively involved in marine conservation efforts, from identifying humpback whales and manta rays to restoring coral reefs and controlling invasive species. Whether surveying marine life, maintaining coral nurseries, or leading Dive Against Debris initiatives, I believe every diver plays a role in ocean conservation. As a supporter of PADI AWARE and Green Fins, I advocate for sustainable diving practices and marine protection. My goal is to inspire and train dive professionals who not only explore the underwater world but also protect it for future generations.