What is cavern diving
A cavern is the part of a cave near the entrance where daylight is still visible. Caverns are found in freshwater springs, on volcanic island walls and along limestone coasts. They are inviting but potentially dangerous: there is a ceiling above you, so you cannot ascend straight to the surface, and stirred-up silt can quickly hide the way out.
The PADI Cavern Diver course teaches you to explore caverns correctly: go in far enough for adventure but always stay within the light zone, from where it is easy to return to open water. It is the first step into diving where there is a ceiling above you.
What you learn
- Using a reel: running a guideline and following it safely back out.
- Using specialised equipment: a primary and a backup light, and redundant breathing systems.
- Avoiding disorientation and not stirring up silt.
- Planning the dive: depth and distance limits, and air management.
- Handling emergencies.
How the course runs
The course has four dives. The first takes place outside a cavern: you practise working with the reel and line and learn the emergency procedures. The next three dives are inside a cavern, within the light zone; PADI states that on the course you go no further than 40 metres.
Besides your basic diving equipment you need a primary dive light and a smaller backup light, a reel and a line. The instructor may suggest other equipment.
Cavern dives need a suitable site, so we run the course on request: the place (for example on a trip abroad) and the dates are arranged with the instructor.
Frequently asked questions
How is cavern diving different from cave diving?
Cavern diving stays within the light zone, where the way to open water is always visible. This course does not prepare you to go further into the dark part of a cave.
What equipment will I need?
Your basic diving equipment, a primary and a smaller backup light, a reel and a line. We discuss any other equipment before the course.
What do I need to start?
You need to be at least 18 and hold a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certificate.
Where do the dives take place?
The dives need a suitable cavern, so we agree the place and dates with you individually, for example during a trip.