Submitted by Dave on September 11, 2012 – 1:00am

by Chris Langehaug
Master Instructor & Director of Technical Dive Training for Dive Utah Holladay

On a recent trip to the Bay Islands of Honduras, I was able to make that dive a reality. Dive Utah has added technical diving to their scuba training options.

A 300′ dive requires training at the highest level of technical diving, Trimix. Trimix introduces an inert gas (Helium) into your breathing mix. By offsetting the Nitrogen you breath at depth with Helium, you lessen the Narcotic (narc’d) effects which allows you to dive deeper with a clearer mind.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=LKPZ_nmf99k

This dive in particular required that I carry 5 scuba cylinders. In PADI TecRec training you work your way through various courses by building up the skills and experience necessary. The warm waters of the Caribbean allowed me to conduct this dive wearing a rash guard and board shorts! There was a minor temperature change of less than 3 degrees at depth.

People have asked “why dive so deep?” Personally, I love wrecks and deep reefs and walls. Generally, I have observed larger marine life and I enjoy the planning involved in technical diving. Additionally, you can extend bottom times on dives even within recreational limits. On a 110′ wreck you have a max bottom time of 16 minutes. That doesn’t give you a lot of time to explore. Technical diving expands your options. I also believe that you are a safer diver as a technical diver as you understand the consequences and dangers much better than a standard diver and plan accordingly. That being said, it’s certainly not for everyone.

If you are interested in technical diving, Dive Utah offers all of PADI’s technical diving programs. Additionally, Sidemount diving and Rebreather training options are available. If you are looking for a little more adventure or want to expand your scuba training, do not hesitate to stop in or email the shop for more information.

Let’s go diving!
Chris
Summer 2012