caverns?

[jon m]

hey all-
going back to pdc area again this year, it was our trip last year that made us get cert'd, the water was great!
wondering if there are any "beginer" cavern (not cave) dives? we did the snorkle trip at hidden worlds and it was beautiful! would like to spend some time diving caverns, but we're not cave cert'd. do we have any options?
thanks!
-me

 

[Augustus]

steve gerrards book give a good summary of the various cenotes on the mainland
http://www.cenotesoftherivieramaya.com/

dos ojos is a very popular site. you will need to go on a guided tour. many operators do these.

 

[Gaviota]

You do not need to be cave certified to do caverns. However, there is a certification for caverns. Cavern diving is staying within the light zone and no more than 130 feet from the surface.

Several different agencies offer certification for cavern - would recommend NACD. Even if you do not plan to do much cavern diving - well worth the training.

Most dive ops offer a "guided tour" for OW cert divers. (Not a fan of the OW tours - can really silt and damage the caverns by bumping into decorations)But, before you go - your bouyancy needs to be excellent. No muck diving or floating to the ceiling.

 

[Spratman]

Check out www.diablodivers.com. Dennis is certified PADI Cavern trainer. He's also a great guide! You cannot go wrong with him.