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Must be Sidemount Diver Certified

TDI Cavern Diver Course

Cavern diving course with TDI certification for exploring overhead environments safely

This TDI Cavern Diver Course introduces divers to the overhead environment with structured training and guided cavern dives. Designed for certified Open Water divers, it builds core skills for safe cavern exploration and is the first step toward cave or technical diving certification.

This advanced-level program is perfect for certified divers ready to explore overhead environments with confidence. The TDI Cavern Diver Course teaches essential techniques for navigating safely inside caverns while staying within the daylight zone. It’s ideal for those looking to develop awareness, trim, and problem-solving skills in a new setting.

Phase 1: Academic Learning (Online or In-Person)

  • Learn key safety rules and cavern diving etiquette.
  • Understand guideline use, emergency procedures, and gas planning.
  • Study equipment configurations for overhead diving.

Phase 2: Practical Training (Cavern Dives)

  • Complete four cavern dives at two different sites.
  • Practice anti-silting techniques, line handling, and light communication.
  • Perform skills with and without visibility to build real-world confidence.

Students complete the course over two days, supported by an experienced instructor in small groups. The pace is flexible, with clear standards and personal guidance.

Dives take place in stunning natural caverns with permanent daylight access, offering an unforgettable experience and a strong foundation for technical or cave diving paths.

After completing the TDI Cavern Diver Course, graduates can continue with the TDI Intro to Cave course or apply their skills in similar overhead environments worldwide.

Before the Course:

  • Complete the TDI Cavern Diver eLearning modules.
  • Review required equipment and packing checklist.

Day 1:

  • Instructor briefing and equipment review.
  • Two cavern dives at the first location.
  • Practice guideline use, buoyancy, and anti-silting techniques.

Day 2:

  • Two cavern dives at a different site.
  • Emergency drills with limited visibility.
  • Receive your TDI Cavern Diver certification.

Master safe diving in overhead spaces.

Practice air sharing with no light.

Use guideline for safe navigation.

Try anti-silt kicks and trim skills.

  • Minimum age: 18 (or 15 with parental consent)
  • Provide proof of TDI Open Water Scuba Diver certification or equivalent
  • Demonstrate good buoyancy control and basic diving skills
  • Submit a completed medical questionnaire
  • Own or rent required cavern diving equipment (detailed checklist provided)
What’s the difference between cavern and cave diving?
Cavern diving takes place in areas with natural light and a direct exit to the surface. Cave diving goes deeper into overhead environments, where exits may be far and complete darkness is possible. Cavern diving is considered safer and is an essential first step toward cave training.
PADI also offers a cavern diver course, but the TDI Cavern Diver Course is more technical in scope and better aligned with continuing cave and technical diving. TDI sets the standard in overhead environment training and is preferred by many professionals planning to advance.
Cave diving is considered an advanced activity with strict safety protocols and risks. That’s why the TDI Cavern Diver Course exists—to build foundational skills step by step before entering true caves. Students train in daylight zones with direct exits and constant instructor supervision.
The TDI Cavern Diver Course includes two days of in-water training with four cavern dives. This is the standard schedule and usually enough to meet all course requirements. If you or your instructor feel that more time is needed, additional training days can be arranged separately. eLearning is completed online at your own pace before the practical sessions begin.
Divers need a full scuba setup plus two lights, a guideline reel, and other safety gear. A complete checklist is provided. Students may use their own equipment or rent from the dive center.
Yes. No previous cave experience is required. You only need an Open Water certification, solid buoyancy control, and readiness to learn. This is the first step in the overhead environment path.
Graduates receive the official TDI Cavern Diver certification, recognized internationally and accepted as a prerequisite for further cave or technical diving programs.
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This Course Includes:

  • All entrance fees and taxes
  • Full set of scuba equipment
  • Professional multilingual instructor
  • Snacks in the cenotes
  • Bottled water and non-alcoholic drinks
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  • Tips for the instructor and driver
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You’ll receive a full gear checklist after booking. Feel free to bring your own equipment or use our rentals.