News
That’s wrong: misconceptions about overhead diving
By: John Bentley & Brian Shreve
The interwebs are a great place to pick up some great, and some not so great, information. Internet cave divers seem to enjoy spouting off opinions based loosely on nothing. This is particularly scary considering the fragility of the cave community and the necessity for standardization in cave diving. Spend a little time on the various scuba related websites, and it’s amazing some of the just plain wrong things you can read!
Here are just a few of them we’ve recently found:
The Rule of 1/6th isn’t appropriate for gaining real experience
This is, unfortunately, a popular one in the North Florida area: The idea that 1/6th doesn’t give the Intro Cave diver enough distance to utilize their newfound awareness, conservation and buddy skills. That’s just not the case. 1/6th gives adequate gas, even for the biggest gas guzzler, to get acquainted to a cave system in a way that exposes them to overhead stress with emphasis on line awareness, buddy procedures, communication, and gas management. It essentially eliminates navigation stress through mainline navigation only, reduces time/distance stress and eliminates most decompression obligation stress.
If 1/6th diver’s gas consumption rates aren’t adequate for getting a few hundred feet into the cave that shows that their comfort level, fitness, and streamlining are not to the level needed to be that far into a cave anyway. While all divers breathe at different rates, and that’s a physiological issue, even the best trained divers double their gas consumption rate under stress. Putting a high volume breather further into a cave without mastery of stress management is asking for trouble.
Visual Jumps are OK
It’s only 3 feet!
This cave never silts out!
I’m familiar with this passage…
Holy moley, no! This one defines all logic. The time it takes to install a jump or gap, a matter of seconds, nullifies all reasons that this would be ok. All overhead dives should be planned for a total loss of visibility, whether through siltation, total light failure or mask loss. If viz is gone finding the gap will be difficult, objectively more difficult than following a line.
Primary lines are optional in tourist caves
This system will spit me out if I’m lost!
Close to open water is close enough!
This one goes back to the previous point. Just no! Tourist caves, like Ginnie and Peacock, that don’t have a line that goes to open water, are no safer than a virgin system. A cavern full of students can quickly make Peacock impossible to navigate. Plenty of individuals have perished in the forward section of a system because they couldn’t clearly find an exit. Just to clarify – If you’re in trouble, running low on gas after a reg failure in low vizibility, do you really want to hit the end of the line, let go, and hope for Mama Ginnie to spit you out? If the answer to that is yes: please, please, take up racquetball instead of cave diving.
It annoys everyone when caverns are a mess of lines, and yes, sometimes that makes it more dangerous. The only solution for a clear exit, where the line runs to the open water, is for cave divers to speak up and have lines extended to open water. This is an issue with land owners not properly restricting access to non-overhead divers. If the site is not open water appropriate (Ginnie for example) then it needs to be restricted to overhead divers only and the guideline should be extended to open water to prevent too many lines. Issues like this are very isolated to certain sites in North Florida and, despite the ease of fix, have spawned an alternate pattern of thinking towards continuous guidelines in cave diving. While every cave is unique and beautiful no cave merits entry without the ability to very easily navigate to the surface with visibility loss.
The Rule of 1/3rds is always appropriate
This is normalization of deviance at its best. The rule of thirds is not always appropriate. When exerted you will use substantially more gas. Long strenuous swims using substantially more gas, or possibly gas sharing, will not work with the rule of thirds. Stages do cause drag and aren’t always appropriate but with long swims in low flow systems they’re a necessary parachute. The “Grand Traverse” in Peacock is often done on thirds and while that seems appropriate to some the margin for error is little with only the gas in a couple sets of mains. A setup dive for longer swims or scooters should include a stage cylinder(s) drop for use as a safety cylinder. This goes back to the basics of dive planning and gas management. We’ve seemed to have forgotten that there are reasons behind the 1/3 rule.
These are just a sample of researched and proven techniques being put to the wayside for stories being shared between divers. The data pools aren’t huge in cave diving, but they’re large enough to set our safety standards. Ignoring these basic guidelines puts us all at risk.
To find out more about International Training, visit www.tdisdi.com.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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