Stalactites, stalagmites, massive columns, and soda straws decorate massive cavern and cave systems all over the world. Some of these caves still have remnants of fire pits, pottery, and even prehistoric human remains. Cave diving is one of the most challenging and demanding activities you can undertake, but if you have the determination to meet these challenges and the discipline and dedication to continually practice and perfect your skills, then cave diving can also be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences you will ever have.

 

The UTD Cave Diver 1 course is designed to be the first step in refining the students’ skills within the cave environment to to become a certified Cave Diver. This is achieved through an intense diver education program that begins with an understanding of established cave conservation procedures and an appreciation for the subtle dangers often associated with this overhead diving. This course covers the basic principles of cave diving, introducing the skills and knowledge required to penetrate and navigate the main line of an underwater cave environment. Training includes an emphasis on awareness, cave dive planning, cave environments, stress management, conservation, standard procedures, emergency procedures, techniques, problem solving, and the hazards of cave diving.

Upon completion of the UTD Cave Diver 1 program, divers will be able to safely practice for up to 24 months,  penetrating the cave, following, and exploring the mainline.

The UTD Cave Diver 1 certification does expire after 24 months (2 years) from completion of your class unless you continue your experience and education by completing the second part, Cave Diver 2. The Cave Diver program is your way to become a fully certified Cave Diver  - which has no expiration. To qualify for this type of instruction participants must be proficient divers with advanced buoyancy control skills and foundation in the protocols. UTD does not assume that cave training is for everyone. In fact, only very capable divers, who are quite comfortable in the water, should consider this form of diving.

Course fee: $850

Minimum age: 21

Prerequisites: UTD Overhead Protocols

 

 

 

Course fee: $850

Minimum age: 21

Prerequisites: UTD Cave 1

 

 

Cave Diver is a combined program consisting of Cave 1 and Cave 2. Divers will be considered to be a fully qualified Cave Divers, their certification will not expire (if they complete Cave 2), and they will be able to safely penetrate and navigate the cave, not only following and exploring the mainline but many of the side passageways and tunnels that make up this underwater labyrinth. UTD does not assume that cave training is for everyone. In fact, only very capable divers, who are quite comfortable in the water, should consider this form of diving.

Course Fee: $1500

 

If you are a fully trained and experienced cave diver looking to expand your cave diving skills, take a specialty cave course. Specialty courses include advanced decompression theory, exploration/survey techniques, stage diving, side mount diving, diver propulsion vehicle (DPV) techniques, cave photography, and videography. In such a demanding environment that allows little room for mistakes, it is best to learn these advanced skills under the supervision of a qualified specialty cave diving instructor.

 

Course fee: Varies by specialty

Minimum age: 21

Prerequisites: UTD Cave Diver plus experience