Deep wreck diving presents unique challenges and risks, necessitating careful consideration and preparation. Wrecks often lie below 18 meters, and diving within them can lead to disorientation, entrapment, or injury from collapsing structures. Divers must acknowledge the limitations of their certification levels and understand that direct ascent to the surface is not possible in overhead environments, increasing the risk of drowning.
Recreational diving certifications have specific depth limits and skills training. For example, PADI Open Water divers are restricted to 18 meters, while Advanced divers can go to 30 meters but cannot penetrate wrecks. Wreck and Deep Diver specialties offer training for wreck penetration and deep diving up to 40 meters. Technical diving certifications like Tec 40 and Tec 50 introduce decompression diving and the use of trimix, with a maximum depth of 50 meters.
It’s crucial to have proper training and experience for the type of diving being planned. Dive centers might sometimes push boundaries for commercial reasons, but divers should adhere to their training and comfort levels. When it comes to equipment, personal gear is preferable over rental, especially for challenging dives like deep wreck penetration. Divers should ensure their equipment is in good condition and that they have necessary items like a primary and backup torch.
Before diving, it’s essential to verify the dive center’s equipment maintenance, the certification and experience of guides, and the dive plan’s safety measures, including emergency procedures and equipment. Divers should also consider the experience and comfort of their buddy, avoiding pushing less experienced divers beyond their limits.
“People copy and adapt behavior and even-though dive guides should know better they are sometimes cornered for commercial purposes to exceed their own limits. Always think about what you have learned! Without getting any commission, I strongly advice you to get at least the proper training and guided experience that suits the diving you are planning to do!”
