Cave Diving - International Differences

International Differences

The cave diving community is a global one, partly due to the highly specialised nature with the resulting small numbers of practitioners at a local level.

However, cave diving practice can differ markedly by locality. One such difference is the use of a floating polypropylene guide line. Most cave divers in the U.S. balk at the use of any sort of floating guide line, 6 mm polypropylene line is the norm in UK precisely because it does float - the line is regularly anchored to stones, lead weights, or whatever is needed and the floating keeps it clear of mud and silt. In Europe, thinner yet slightly buoyant line is typical. Cave diving practices in some localities may be different than those in other parts of the world because those caves require specialized techniques. It is always recommended that individuals contact someone familiar with a cave before venturing inside a cave.

Regularity in signs and warnings may also differ around the world. For example, warnings signs are rare in the UK.