Cave diving is one of the most thrilling experiences you can undertake, combining two extreme sports: diving and spelunking. Fancy giving it a go?
ACTIVITY PROJECT PLANNING
- Obtain a sketch or topography of the cavity to be explored. Study its features, dimensions, potential narrow passages, exits to aerial galleries, side galleries, etc.
- Define the objective of the visit: exploration, photography, visiting a specific passage...
- Prepare a list of equipment needed based on the objective and participants:
- Distance to cover and depths.
- Air consumption/required cylinders.
- Safety measures: oxygen and reserve cylinders.
- Organise the group of participants: buddy pairs, task allocation, and defining each person’s role.
- Gather additional information from those familiar with the cavity.
- Obtain permission from relevant authorities if required (some cavities mandate this).
- Ensure all participants have valid insurance.
- Arrange necessary logistics: accommodation, meals, transport, etc.
- Draft an emergency plan and distribute copies to all participants. Inform family/friends of the plans.
Weather check
For both marine and inland caves, check weather conditions shortly before departure.
For marine caves, sea state affects the dive—swimming or boating to the cave entrance may be hazardous in rough waves, especially during decompression dives.
For inland caves, monitor hydrological behaviour and avoid entry after heavy rain or if rain is forecast, as water levels can rise rapidly even with light but prolonged rainfall.
Equipment preparation:
Forecast tools, spares, and gear meticulously.
For marine caves, establish contact with nearby dive centres to address equipment issues—though carrying a repair kit is wise.
For inland caves (where dive stations are scarce), verify cylinder pressure, valve seals, and regulator function before departure to avoid aborting the dive.
Equipment checklist:
Basic gear:
- Booties
- Fins (spare straps)
- Wetsuit
- Dry suit (hose)
- Hood
Heavy equipment:
- Cylinders
- Harnesses
- Buoyancy compensators
- Regulators/gauges
Lighting:
- Torches
- Batteries
- Chargers
- Spare lamps
Specialist gear:
- Dive tables (air, nitrox, mixes, O2)
- Two cutting tools
- Slates
- Reel with guideline marked every 5–10m
- Dive computer
- Depth gauge
- Weights
- Tools
Compressor, spark plugs, spanner, oil, fuel can, light sources, chargers, manifold, regulators, cylinders, assorted O-rings, high-pressure plugs, wrenches, hoses.
Miscellaneous kit
Silicone, Unex straps for masks/fins, pliers, spanner/wrench, cutter, fasteners, alcohol, glue, rubber, pencil, indelible marker, inner tube patches...
Emergencies
Always carry a visible personal data card for emergencies. Include key contacts and institutional numbers for assistance.
1. Personal data template:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone numbers
- ID
- Emergency contact (name/phone)
- Insurance policy
- Policy number/expiry
- Emergency services number
- Local caving/diving federations/clubs
- Relevant contacts/phones
- Active hyperbaric chambers
- Institutional rescue teams
- Fire brigade
- Red Cross
- Activity partners who could assist
- Nearest Civil Guard station
- Local ambulances
- Nearby hospitals
- Local Red Cross
- Nearest village contacts
- Nearest town council
3. Emergency protocol:
- Move the casualty to a safe, comfortable spot.
- Let the most experienced rescuer/first-aider take charge.
- Administer first aid if needed:
b) Oxygen
c) Notify local Civil Guard.
d) Inform insurer.
e) Notify family.
f) Arrange urgent transfer to hospital/hyperbaric chamber.
