How much of a risk does snorkelling in sea caves represent, and how can we mitigate those risks? Andy Torbet has some answers
TORBET ON THE TUBE
The dark side
Andy takes a breather on a tiny, rock‘ shore’ at the back of a small cave.
How much of a risk does snorkelling in sea caves represent, and how can we mitigate those risks? Andy Torbet has some answers
Always keep the exit light in view – Georgina Miller knows the way out
PHOTO: DAAN VERHOEVEN
There is a risk my knuckles will be rapped for appearing to encourage dangerous practices. But I have never been accused of being risk-adverse so I want to highlight the attractions, and safety, of cave snorkelling.
In most diving terms, caves are classed as sites with higher than normal risk factors and the remit of only those appropriately trained and equipped for the technical and unforgiving overhead environment. And clearly if one was to attempt to enter an overhead environment on only a single breath, the risk would be severe.
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But this view restricts the term‘ cave’ to only those that are fully submerged. Many caves, especially sea caves, are created by the action of surface waves eroding weaknesses in the coastal cliffs and so, by the nature of their creation, are often at least partially open above the surface. This continuous access to fresh air can make them fantastic locations to explore with a snorkel.
However, despite the presence of an air space in such caves, there are still safety factors to consider before we venture into the semi-underworld.
A semi-submerged sea cave can be a spectacular snorkel site.
PHOTO: DAAN VERHOEVEN
Go large: Swimming into a tight cave that you may not be able to turn around in, forcing a fin-first exit can prove problematic. But we should also look for any narrowing above the waterline. As the waves move the surface on which we snorkel up and down we may find ourselves funnelled towards a cave roof which is rapidly lowering towards our unprotected heads. Big is beautiful when it comes to cave snorkelling.
Sea state: Moving up and down with the waves, aside from its ability to induce seasickness, is harmless in open water. However, being thrust against the ceiling or rolled down a wall can be dangerous regardless of how thick your wetsuit is.
The narrowing of even larger caves tends to heighten the action of waves, making any vertical movement much more pronounced. A wetsuit, even a 3mm( a bold move, even in a British summer) will provide some abrasion resistance should you find yourself at risk of scraping against a wall.
Beckoning darkness: It’ s a cave. It’ s dark. Take a torch. Sea caves tend to be much