Advanced Cave Diver

The highest level of IANTD cave diver training, this advanced program is built around four separate modules that can be completed one after another, in pairs, or as individual courses.

Side Mount Diver – This module develops the diver’s ability to use both side mount and no mount equipment setups in the cave environment, with a strong focus on proper configuration and safety procedures.

Multiple Stage Diving – Designed to expand cave penetration capabilities, this course teaches divers how to place multiple cylinders at planned points during the inward swim. The main emphasis is on gas management planning and emergency procedures.

Cave Surveying – Divers learn how to collect survey data during cave dives for later use in creating maps and surveys of cave passages. The course also includes an overview of survey tools and equipment, along with team-based projects focused on data collection and survey production.

DPV Diver – This module trains divers in the safe use of diver propulsion vehicles, beginning in open water to build core skills before applying them in the cave environment. Training includes emergency procedures such as DPV failure, diver tows, and gas sharing while using DPVs.

The IANTD DPV Diver course may also be offered as a module within the IANTD Advanced Cave program in the cave environment, or as a standalone course in open water.

Prerequisites: Must hold an IANTD Full Cave Diver qualification or equivalent; must be at least 18 years old; must have a minimum of 25 logged cave dives.

Equipment Requirements: Must meet the general equipment requirements for Cave Diver programs, plus any specialty equipment specified in the IANTD Cave Diver Specialty Student Workbook.

Side Mount Diver Requirements: Side mount harness and buoyancy device approved by the instructor before the course.

Multiple Stage Diver Requirements: Properly rigged stage cylinder and regulator with SPG for each cylinder/regulator combination.

Survey Diver Requirements: Appropriate survey slate and equipment required to record data.

DPV Diver Requirements: Suitable DPV for the planned dives.