The TDI Intro to Cave Diver course is the next step to take certified cavern divers deeper into the world of overhead diving by introducing the skills, knowledge, and procedures required to explore the cave environment beyond the daylight zone. This course emphasizes advanced guideline techniques, gas management, and emergency protocols while reinforcing safety and team awareness in a true overhead setting.

The course will be done in spectacular cenotes such as Tajma Ha, just south of Playa del Carmen, offering world-renowned cave systems with excellent conditions for structured cave diving training.

Course Topics Include:

• Cave dive planning, gas rules (e.g., rule of thirds and sixths), and bailout strategies

• Complex guideline handling, including jumps, gaps, and navigational markers

• Advanced propulsion techniques for low-impact cave movement

• Line following in zero visibility and simulated lost line drills

• Team roles, light protocols, and emergency communication methods

• Psychological aspects of overhead diving and stress management

• Problem-solving and self-rescue in true cave environments

Course Structure:

• Academic Sessions: Covering cave diving theory, advanced gas management, equipment configuration, and cave diving protocols

• Cave Dives: Typically 4–6 dives (depending on progression) focused on line drills, navigation, gas planning, and emergency procedures within the cave zone

Prerequisites:

• Minimum age: 18 years old

• Minimum certification: TDI Cavern Diver or equivalent

• Minimum of 75 logged dives recommended

Certification Outcome:
Upon successful completion, divers will earn the TDI Intro to Cave Diver certification, allowing them to penetrate into the cave zone beyond the daylight area, while following a continuous guideline and staying within the limits of no complex navigation. This course sets the stage for full cave certification. The next progression is the TDI Full Cave Diver Course.