deepdiving

Deepdiving refers to underwater diving conducted at depths beyond the standard limits of recreational scuba, typically defined as deeper than 40 meters (130 feet). Within recreational settings, most dives are planned to a maximum depth of 30 to 40 meters; deeper operations are usually classified as technical diving and require specialized training, gas management, and procedures.

To manage the physiological challenges of greater depth, deepdiving practitioners often use mixed-gas mixtures such as nitrox, trimix, or heliox. Decompression stops are commonly required to allow inert gas elimination and reduce decompression sickness risk. Equipment commonly includes a redundant gas supply, a reliable dive computer, extended buoyancy control methods, and, in many cases, a staged decompression or deep decompression plan. Some practitioners also use closed-circuit or semi-closed rebreathers to improve gas efficiency for long or deep dives.

Historically, deepdiving progressed with the introduction of mixed-gas breathing and formal decompression theory in the mid- to late 20th century, followed by increasingly structured training standards from professional diving organizations. The distinction between recreational deepdiving and technical diving reflects the shift toward longer bottom times, higher pressures, and more complex gas management.

Certification and training pathways vary by organization but typically cover dive planning, gas management, decompression theory, emergency procedures, and the use of redundant systems. Prerequisites usually include prior experience in open-water diving, a medical clearance, and completion of an advanced or equivalent course. Specialized programs may cover cave, wreck, or overhead environments.

Risks associated with deepdiving include nitrogen narcosis, oxygen toxicity, decompression sickness, barotrauma, and equipment failure. Risk is mitigated through conservative planning, adherence to ascent profiles, redundant gas strategies, buddy procedures, thorough pre-dive checks, and ongoing training.