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Recommendations for underwater cave diving
For cave diving, we can explore flooded grottos located inland, but there are also underwater caves with direct access from the sea. In other cases, they are situated near the coast but without direct connection to it (e.g., Cueva del Agua in Cartagena).
The main characteristic of this type of dive is that it takes place under a real ceiling, meaning that if any problem arises, a direct ascent to the surface is impossible.
Another important feature is the complete absence of natural light, requiring divers to be equipped with lighting systems. For this reason, the risk for divers is high, as any underwater emergency must be resolved on the spot. Prior training is essential to handle any unforeseen issues.
Before starting this activity, it is advisable to take a specialised diving course where you will learn the necessary knowledge and techniques (correct guideline installation, equipment specifications, safety protocols, etc.), as well as simulate potential incidents and their solutions.
Types of cave diving
Grotto diving. Dives in cavities not exceeding 70 metres in length or 30 metres in depth, with no decompression required and where the exit is always visible.
Cave diving (Speleodiving). Any dive in a cavity that exceeds the limits set for grotto diving or, due to the cave's unique characteristics, is unsuitable for divers without proper training (some caves have warning signs). This is an extremely technical discipline requiring extensive experience and specialised equipment, often used for exploration purposes (e.g., uncharted caves).
Precautions for underwater cave diving
- Have prior knowledge and training in underwater cave diving.
- Plan and prepare the dive in advance, gathering as much information as possible about the dive site.
- Do not exceed the 70-metre limit or enter decompression.
- Never dive in caves without a guideline, which must indicate distance covered and exit direction.
- Use two independent regulators and, ideally, two separate tanks (each with its own regulator and pressure gauge).
- Respect air consumption limits: follow the rule of thirds (1/3 for entry, 1/3 for exit, and 1/3 reserve).
- Keep both regulators close to your mouth.
- Carry sufficient lighting: three light sources per diver, each lasting longer than the dive time, with switches for alternating use.
- Avoid caves prone to silt disturbance (e.g., from fin kicks, ceiling collapses due to regulator bubbles, or touching the bottom).
- Maintain neutral buoyancy while diving mid-water.
- Avoid narrow passages.
- Abort the dive at the first sign of doubt or incident.
- While many caves in our country are accessible to most divers, the safety measures above must never be ignored, and no detail should be left to chance.
Main causes of accidents in cave diving
Inexperience, disregard for safety rules, and recklessness can lead to accidents with potentially fatal consequences in this type of diving. Most accidents are due to human error, with equipment failure being rare.
Most accidents stem from the following factors:
- Inadequate technical training for this type of diving.
- Incorrect use of the guideline: abandoning it during the dive or not using one at all.
- Poor air management (not following the rule of thirds).
- Insufficient lighting: following a guideline without light can be fatal for untrained divers. Avoid overconfidence, know your limits, and never underestimate risks—this ensures safe and enjoyable dives in these breathtaking locations.
