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DIVING UNLIMITED INTERNATIONAL
side. Although each region’s caves
influence local training courses,
most of what you learn during your
training is transferable worldwide.
I have landed in Poland, Greece
and Australia, and after a couple
of check-out dives to make sure
we’re all using the same signals and
procedures, I’ve gone cave diving
with the locals. This is a great
way to learn even more, including
local techniques that might not be
taught in your area. No matter how
much experience I have, each time
I land somewhere new I start at
the bottom of the ladder again and
arrange for an experienced local
to show me the ropes. So far this
policy has reaped dividends, not
only because I’ve picked up some
valuable tips for diving local caves in
exotic places, but now I have really
good buddies in several countries.
Taking The Plunge
If this sounds like a path you would
like to follow, the best advice is
to locate a good instructor. Many
training agencies offer cavern- and
cave-diver certification, and the
main differences in quality often
come down to the instructor
(as is the case with most dive
courses). Post an inquiry on some
dive forums, visit websites for the
National Association for Cave
Diving (NACD), the Cave Diving
Section of the National Speleology
Society (NSS-CDS) or popular cave-
diving websites such as cavediver.
net. Before signing up for a course,
try to contact someone who was
trained by the instructor you’re
considering. The value of a patient
instructor when you’re heading into
a place beyond your wildest dreams
cannot be overestimated. Don’t be
afraid to let your instructor know if
something is beyond your comfort
zone. Progress cautiously, gradually
gaining experience, and above all,
remember: Anyone can call any dive
at any time.
AD