Deep Diving: The Ultimate Guide for Recreational Divers
So, you’ve mastered the basics, explored the reefs, and maybe even dived through a few wrecks. But now, you’re eyeing those deeper waters with curiosity.
What lies beyond the “18-meter” mark? A lost city? A hidden shipwreck? The meaning of life? 😬
Deep diving is where things get fascinating.
At greater depths, you’ll find new marine life, eerie shipwrecks, and dramatic underwater landscapes that few people get to see.
But with great depth comes great responsibility…
In this guide, we’re diving into everything you need to know about deep diving as a recreational diver:
- What counts as deep diving?
How to get certified for deeper dives. - The risks (and how to avoid them).
- Essential equipment for deep dives.
- The best deep diving destinations in the Canaries.
- What counts as deep diving?
So, if you’re ready to go beyond the basics, let’s dive deep.
What is Deep Diving?
Alright, first things first—what exactly is deep diving?
In recreational diving, deep diving refers to any dive beyond 18 meters (60 feet), with a maximum depth of 40 meters (130 feet). That’s the legal limit for recreational divers.
Anything deeper? That’s technical diving, and that’s a whole different beast (we’ll get to that later).
At this depth, things change. Colors fade, air consumption skyrockets, and the pressure on your body increases significantly. But the rewards? Absolutely worth it.
Why Go Deeper?
Let’s be honest—some of the best things underwater aren’t hanging out in the shallows. Here’s why divers crave depth:
- Wrecks that lie beyond Open Water limits – Think of WWII ships, pirate vessels, and the kind of sites that make you feel like Indiana Jones in a wetsuit.
- Marine life that prefers the dark – Some creatures only show up in deeper waters, like thresher sharks, deep-sea corals, and massive schools of pelagic fish.
- Incredible underwater formations – Caves, drop-offs, and canyons that look like something out of a sci-fi movie.
Of course, going deeper means taking on more responsibility.
More depth requires better planning, more air, and a solid understanding of how your body reacts to pressure. But don’t worry—we’ll walk you through all of that.
Certifications You Need for Deep Diving
Unfortunately, you can’t just strap on a tank and drop into the abyss like an underwater superhero. Deep diving requires training, and that means getting the right certifications before venturing past the 18-meter mark.
Here’s how your deep diving progression should look:
1. Open Water Diver (OWD) – Max Depth: 18m (60ft)
This is where everyone starts. You’ll learn the basics of buoyancy, dive planning, and safety procedures. But if you want to explore deeper sites, this certification won’t cut it—you’ll need to go further.
2. Advanced Adventure Diver – Max Depth: 30m (100ft)
This course is your ticket to deeper dives. It includes a deep dive training session where you get a taste of what it’s like to go beyond the usual limits.
You’ll learn how to manage your air better, control your buoyancy at depth, and deal with minor effects of nitrogen narcosis.
3. Deep Diver Specialty – Max Depth: 40m (130ft)
If you’re serious about deep diving, this is the certification you need.
In this course, you’ll practice:
- Planning and executing deep dives safely.
- Understanding gas management (because air disappears faster the deeper you go).
- Recognizing and managing nitrogen narcosis.
- Mastering ascent and decompression procedures.
At this point, you’ve reached the recreational diving limit. If you’re itching to go deeper, technical diving is your next step—but that’s a whole different level of training and gear.
Challenges and Risks of Deep Diving
Alright, let’s get serious because this is important.
Deep diving isn’t just about the thrill—it also comes with real physiological and logistical challenges.
More depth means more pressure, faster air consumption, and increased risks. But don’t worry! With proper training and awareness, these risks are manageable.
Let’s break down the two biggest concerns:
1. Nitrogen Narcosis: The “Martini Effect”
Imagine having one martini for every 10 meters of depth—sounds fun, right? Well, that’s more or less what nitrogen narcosis feels like.
As you descend, the increased pressure amplifies the narcotic effect of nitrogen, which can make you feel euphoric, confused, or just plain weird.
Common Symptoms:
- Feeling unusually happy or fearful for no reason.
- Slow reaction time or trouble concentrating.
- Tingling in your fingers or face.
- Thinking that you’re totally fine when, in reality, you’re not (this one’s dangerous).
How to Handle It:
- Recognize the signs in yourself and your buddy.
- If you start feeling “off,” signal your buddy and ascend a few meters—the symptoms usually disappear fast.
- Stay calm and breathe slowly—panicking makes it worse.
The best way to deal with nitrogen narcosis? Respect your limits and avoid pushing yourself deeper than you’re trained for.
2. Decompression and the Risk of “The Bends”
You’ve probably heard of “The Bends”—it’s the boogeyman of deep diving. But what exactly is it?
As you dive, nitrogen dissolves into your body’s tissues. If you ascend too quickly, that nitrogen forms bubbles, which can cause pain, dizziness, paralysis, or worse.
Think of it like shaking a soda bottle and then opening it too fast—except the bubbles are inside your body.
How to Prevent Decompression Sickness:
- Control your ascent speed—no faster than 9 meters (30 feet) per minute.
- Make safety stops (especially after deep dives).
- Monitor your dive computer or use decompression tables.
- Stay hydrated —dehydration increases your risk.
- Never push no-decompression limits — your body needs time to adjust.
Bottom line? Take your time on the way up. Deep diving is amazing, but rushing to the surface isn’t worth the risk.
Planning a Deep Dive
If there’s one thing you don’t want to do in deep diving, it’s winging it. Unlike shallower dives, where you can surface quickly if something goes wrong, deep diving requires careful planning.
Run out of air at 10 meters? Annoying, but manageable. Run out of air at 35 meters? That’s a whole different story.
Let’s go through the key factors that should be part of every deep dive plan.
Key Considerations Before a Deep Dive
1. Bottom Time – How Long Can You Stay Down?
Time flies when you’re exploring a shipwreck, but at depth, your no-decompression limits shrink fast. The deeper you go, the shorter your safe dive time.
- At 30 meters (100 feet), you have around 20 minutes before hitting no-deco limits.
- At 40 meters (130 feet), that time can drop to 10 minutes or less.
- Exceed those limits? You’ll need to make mandatory decompression stops to avoid the bends.
2. Air Consumption – Your Tank Won’t Last Long
Ever noticed how your air disappears faster the deeper you go? That’s because the increased pressure makes each breath denser, meaning you use up more gas per breath.
- A tank that lasts 60 minutes at 10 meters might give you just 20 minutes at 40 meters.
- Monitor your Surface Air Consumption (SAC) rate and plan your gas accordingly.
3. Environmental Conditions – What’s the Site Like?
Before heading deep, check:
- Water temperature – Deeper = Colder. A thermocline at 30 meters can turn a warm dive into an ice bath.
- Current strength – Deep sites can have unpredictable currents.
- Visibility – Things get darker fast. Even if it’s clear at 10 meters, deeper levels might be a pitch-black void.
4. Local Regulations and Dive Site Rules
Some dive sites have specific deep diving rules. Always check:
- Required certifications (some places won’t take you past 30 meters without a Deep Diver cert).
- Time limits imposed by dive centers.
- Local hazards like strong currents, fragile marine life, or restricted areas.
How to Plan a Safe Deep Dive
So, how do you actually plan a deep dive the right way? Follow these steps:
1. Use a Dive Computer or Decompression Tables
Your dive computer is your best friend. It tracks:
- Your bottom time.
- Your ascent rate.
- Your no-decompression limits (or when you’ll need a deco stop).
2. Plan Your Air Supply (And a Backup!)
- Follow the “Rule of Thirds” – Use one-third of your air for the descent and bottom time, one-third for the ascent, and keep one-third as a reserve.
- Carry an emergency air source if possible (like a pony bottle).
3. Stick to a Controlled Ascent and Make Safety Stops
- Ascend no faster than 9 meters (30 feet) per minute.
- Make a safety stop at 5 meters (15 feet) for at least 3 minutes—longer if you’ve been near your no-deco limit.
4. Discuss the Dive Plan with Your Buddy
- Who leads the dive?
- What signals will you use?
- What’s the emergency plan?
- What depth is the “turnaround point” (when you start heading back)?
Deep diving isn’t the place for improvisation. The more prepared you are, the smoother and safer your dive will be.
Essential Equipment for Deep Diving
You wouldn’t go on a road trip without checking your gas tank, right? The same logic applies to deep diving — except instead of running out of fuel on the highway, you could run out of air at 35 meters. Not ideal.
Deep diving requires specialized gear to handle the increased pressure, colder temperatures, and faster air consumption. Let’s go over the must-haves.
1. Regulators Designed for Depth
Not all regulators are created equal. At deep depths, standard regulators can struggle to deliver air smoothly, which means breathing can feel restricted—a situation no diver wants to be in.
What to look for in a deep-diving regulator:
- Balanced or overbalanced first stage – Ensures consistent airflow, even at depth.
- Environmentally sealed – Prevents freezing in cold water conditions.
- High-performance second stage – Delivers air effortlessly, reducing breathing effort.
If your regulator feels like it’s making you work for every breath, it’s not made for deep diving. Time to upgrade.
2. Dive Computers: Your Underwater Brain
If you’re diving deep without a dive computer, you might as well be flying a plane blindfolded.
A dive computer helps you track:
- Bottom time and no-decompression limits (so you don’t accidentally overstay your welcome at depth).
- Ascent rate (to prevent decompression sickness).
- Emergency decompression stops (in case you push your limits a little too far).
Modern dive computers adjust dynamically based on your dive profile, giving you real-time data to keep you safe.
If you’re serious about deep diving, this is non-negotiable.
3. Exposure Protection: Stay Warm, Stay Safe
Here’s the deal: deep water is cold. Even in warm climates, thermoclines can make a 30-meter dive feel like you’ve suddenly stepped into a fridge.
Hypothermia affects judgment and air consumption, so proper exposure protection is crucial.
Options for deep diving:
- Wetsuit (5mm-7mm) – Good for warm water, but may not be enough for prolonged deep dives.
- Semi-dry suit – Provides better insulation without going full dry suit.
- Dry suit – Best for cold water deep dives, keeps you completely dry, and allows layering of thermal clothing underneath.
If you’ve ever surfaced from a dive shivering and regretting all your life choices, it’s time to rethink your exposure protection.
4. Redundant Air Supply: Because “Just in Case” is a Good Plan
Deep diving means you can’t just shoot to the surface if something goes wrong. That’s why having a backup air source is a smart move.
Options for redundancy:
- Pony bottle – A small separate tank with a regulator, in case of an emergency.
- Twin cylinders – Used in technical diving, but some deep divers prefer them for extra security.
Running out of air at depth isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s an emergency. A little extra gas could make all the difference.
5. Dive Lights: Because It Gets Dark Down There
The deeper you go, the less light penetrates the water. By the time you hit 30 meters, colors start fading, and at 40 meters, things can look pretty gloomy.
Why carry a dive light?
- Helps restore color at depth.
- Allows you to see details in wrecks or caves.
- Essential for low-visibility conditions.
- Acts as a signal tool for your buddy.
Even in broad daylight, a good dive torch can make your deep dive way more enjoyable.
6. Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): Your Lifeline to the Surface
If you surface far from the boat after a deep dive, you want to be seen — not mistaken for a floating log. A Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) makes sure boats and dive staff can spot you easily.
Why every deep diver needs an SMB:
- Allows for safe ascent in open water.
- Helps alert boats that divers are surfacing.
- Essential in strong current areas.
Don’t be the diver who surfaces in the wrong place and spends the next hour getting a sunburn while waiting for the boat.
7. A Properly Trained Buddy: The Most Important “Gear” You Have
No matter how good your equipment is, nothing replaces a solid dive buddy. Deep diving requires teamwork — you want someone who:
- Knows how to handle deep diving scenarios.
- Understands emergency procedures.
- Isn’t going to panic at the first sign of trouble.
Choose your buddy wisely — because at 35 meters, you don’t want to be diving with someone whose idea of a deep dive plan is “we’ll figure it out when we get there.”
Where to Go Deep Diving in the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands are one of the top deep diving destinations in Europe, thanks to their volcanic underwater landscapes, rich marine biodiversity, and excellent visibility.
With dive sites ranging from dramatic basalt cliffs to shipwrecks and coral gardens, the archipelago offers some of the most exciting deep dives for advanced recreational divers.
Here are some of the best deep diving spots in the Canary Islands, based on real dive sites and their unique features.
1. The Arona Wreck – A Deep Dive for Experts (Gran Canaria) | Depth: 20-36m
If you’re looking for a wreck with history, marine life, and a bit of mystery, the Arona in Gran Canaria is a must-dive.
Is 100-meter-long merchant ship sank in 1972 after a devastating fire, coming to rest at 36 meters beneath the surface.
Over the years, it has transformed into an artificial reef, attracting an incredible variety of marine life.
Why dive here?
- A massive wreck with plenty to explore — at 100 meters in length, this is one of the largest recreational wreck dives in the Canary Islands.
- Depth variation — the shallowest point starts at 20 meters, allowing for gradual exploration.
- Thriving marine ecosystem — schools of barracudas, snappers, and red seabream patrol the wreck, while scorpionfish and soldierfish hide in the corridors.
- A hauntingly beautiful sight — covered in anemones and vegetation, the wreck’s twisted structure makes for an unforgettable dive.
2. El Calamareo & El Fafo (Fuerteventura) | Depth: 20-40m
A deep dive along an impressive vertical wall, El Calamareo stretches for kilometers along the seabed of Fuerteventura, offering dramatic basalt formations, canyons, caves, and swim-throughs.
This area includes multiple dive sites, but Las Anclas and El Fafo (the “secret cave”) stand out.
Why dive here?
- Stunning drop-offs and rock formations.
- Plenty of overhangs and tunnels, making it an exciting deep dive.
- Ideal for exploring different routes along the wall.
3. Playa Chica (Lanzarote) | Depth: 12-45m
One of the most popular deep diving sites in Lanzarote, Playa Chica is known for calm waters, abundant marine life, and an easy beach entry.
While beginners can enjoy the shallow areas, advanced divers can descend to 45 meters to explore deeper rocky formations and encounter larger species.
Why dive here?
- Accessible from shore, making it an easy deep dive entry.
- Great variety of marine life, including seahorses, golden bream, and crabs.
- Ideal for divers looking for a mix of depth and marine biodiversity.
4. Las Gerardias (La Graciosa) | Depth: 27-40m
This is a must-do deep dive for those fascinated by unique underwater ecosystems.
Located at a depth of 27-40 meters, this site features the largest known aggregation of Gerardia savaglia corals in the world. These deep-sea corals form an underwater forest, creating a breathtaking habitat for pelagic species.
Why dive here?
- A one-of-a-kind coral garden, home to centuries-old corals.
- Frequent encounters with schools of barracudas, striped tunas, and red seabream.
- Considered one of the most ecologically valuable dive sites in Spain.
5. La Rapadura (Tenerife) | Depth: 40m
One of the most visually spectacular dive sites in the Canary Islands, La Rapadura is famous for its gigantic hexagonal basalt columns, resembling an underwater Giant’s Causeway.
This unique geological formation is recognized worldwide and makes for an unforgettable deep dive.
Why dive here?
- A massive volcanic rock formation, completely unique to Tenerife.
- Stunning light effects created by the cracks between the hexagonal basalt blocks.
- Advanced-level dive due to depth and potential currents.
6. El Bajón (El Hierro) | Depth: 40m+
Located in the Marine Reserve of La Restinga, El Bajón is one of the top-rated deep dive sites in Europe.
This dive features a sharp underwater mountain with vertical walls, where nutrient-rich currents attract large pelagic species.
Why dive here?
- Frequent encounters with devil rays, tunas, and amberjacks.
- Strong currents make it an exciting and challenging dive.
- A dive site famous for big fish action and stunning underwater landscapes.
Why Deep Dive in the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands offer some of the best deep diving conditions in Europe, thanks to:
- Exceptional visibility: Often 30 meters or more.
- Comfortable water temperatures: Ranging from 18-24°C year-round.
- A mix of volcanic landscapes, wrecks, and rich biodiversity.
- Varied dive sites, catering to advanced recreational divers and those looking to push their limits.
Whether you’re drawn to dramatic drop-offs, volcanic rock formations, or thriving marine life, the Canary Islands have some of the most unique deep dive spots in the Atlantic.
So, which site is calling your name?
A Brief Introduction to Technical Diving
Alright, let’s talk about the deep beyond deep: the world of technical diving.
So far, we’ve covered deep diving within recreational limits (max 40 meters/130 feet), but what happens when 40 meters isn’t enough? That’s where tech diving comes in.
This isn’t just a “go deeper” certification. It’s a whole different approach to diving.
Technical diving requires specialized gas mixes, different equipment setups, and advanced training to manage the risks of extreme depths.
How is Technical Diving Different from Recreational Deep Diving?
The biggest differences between recreational and technical diving are:
Depth Limits – Tech divers can go well beyond 40 meters. Some advanced dives reach 100 meters or more.
Gas Mixtures – Instead of relying solely on compressed air, tech divers use specialized gas blends like Nitrox, Trimix, and Heliox to minimize the risk of decompression sickness, oxygen toxicity, and nitrogen narcosis at greater depths.
Decompression Obligations – No more simple safety stops. Tech dives require mandatory decompression stops, sometimes adding hours to a dive.
Redundant Equipment – Tech divers don’t just carry a single tank. They use twin sets, side-mount systems, or rebreathers to extend dive time and increase safety.
Increased Risk Management – The deeper you go, the higher the stakes. Tech divers train for emergency scenarios, from gas failures to lost visibility.
Is Technical Diving for You?
Not every deep diver needs to go tech. But if you find yourself always hitting the 40-meter limit and wanting more, it might be time to explore technical diving.
Here’s how to know if it’s right for you:
- You love the challenge of extended bottom times and deep exploration.
- You’re willing to invest in serious training and equipment.
- You’re fascinated by wreck penetration, cave diving, or extreme depths.
- You have excellent buoyancy control, air management, and situational awareness.
Technical diving isn’t for casual divers — it’s for those who want to push the limits safely.
What’s the Next Step?
If you’re interested in going beyond 40 meters, here’s your path:
- Enriched Air (Nitrox) Certification – First step toward using different gas mixes.
- Technical Foundations Course – Introduction to redundancy and gas planning.
- Technical Diving Certifications (SSI, TDI, PADI Tec, IANTD, etc.) – Allows you to train for depths up to 50 meters and beyond. For Cave, Wreck, or Deep Exploration Specialties – Focus on a specific type of advanced diving.
Final Thoughts on Tech Diving
Technical diving is a game-changer — but it’s not for everyone.
Some divers love the challenge of managing gas mixes and decompression, while others prefer to stay within recreational limits and just enjoy the dive.
Either way, deep diving — whether recreational or technical — offers some of the most incredible underwater experiences.
The key is to know your limits, get the right training, and always prioritize safety.
Would you ever consider taking the plunge into tech diving, or are you happy at 40 meters?
Final Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Deep Dive
Deep diving is an incredible experience, but it’s also an environment where small mistakes can have big consequences. That’s why preparation, awareness, and good habits are key to making every deep dive safe and unforgettable.
Here are some final tips to keep in mind before you take the plunge:
1. Never Dive Beyond Your Training
Look, there’s no shame in staying within your limits.
If you’re certified for 30 meters, don’t push to 40 “just to see what’s down there.” Every extra meter increases risk — so get the right certification before going deeper.
2. Plan Your Dive, Dive Your Plan
Deep diving is not the time for improvisation. Before you even touch the water, you should know:
- Maximum depth and bottom time.
- Ascent strategy and safety stops.
- Emergency procedures with your buddy.
Stick to the plan. The ocean doesn’t care if you get distracted by a cool wreck and lose track of time.
3. Monitor Your Air Like Your Life Depends on It (Because It Does)
At 10 meters, running low on air is an inconvenience. At 35 meters, it’s an emergency. Keep an eye on your air consumption, and follow the Rule of Thirds:
- 1/3 of your air for the descent and bottom time.
- 1/3 for the ascent.
- 1/3 as a safety reserve.
If your gauge is running out sooner than expected, ascend immediately. There’s no prize for stretching your tank to the last breath.
4. Respect Decompression Limits and Ascent Rates
Never shoot to the surface like a torpedo. That’s how people get the bends.
- Follow the 9 meters (30 feet) per minute ascent rate.
- Always do a safety stop at 5 meters (15 feet) for at least 3 minutes.
- If your dive computer says you need a deco stop — DO IT.
The surface will still be there when you get up. Take your time.
5. Watch for Signs of Nitrogen Narcosis
We’ve covered this before, but let’s repeat it: if you feel too happy, too scared, too slow, or just “off”, it’s time to ascend a few meters.
Nitrogen narcosis can sneak up on you, and at 30+ meters, you need a clear head.
6. Choose a Buddy You Trust
Deep diving is not the time for bad dive buddies. You want someone who:
- Understands deep diving protocols.
- Communicates well underwater.
- Will actually help in an emergency (not just stare at you in panic).
And of courseb— be that kind of buddy yourself.
7. Stay Hydrated and Well-Rested
Did you know dehydration increases your risk of decompression sickness?
Avoid alcohol the night before, drink plenty of water, and make sure you get enough sleep.
A tired, dehydrated diver is a bad decision waiting to happen.
8. Carry an SMB (Surface Marker Buoy)
An SMB is not optional for deep diving, especially in open water.
If you surface far from the boat, you want to be visible. Deploy it before ascending to let boats and crew know where you are.
9. If Something Feels Wrong, Abort the Dive
There’s a simple rule in diving: anyone can call the dive, at any time, for any reason.
If you don’t feel right, if your equipment is off, if conditions change — call it. The dive will always be there for another day.
10. Enjoy the Dive, but Stay Focused
Deep diving is thrilling, beautiful, and rewarding, but it also demands your full attention.
- Take in the sights.
- Appreciate the silence.
- Respect the depth.
It’s an experience unlike any other — so enjoy it responsibly.
Final Thoughts about Deep Diving
Deep diving isn’t just about going deeper; it’s about mastering your skills, making smart decisions, and experiencing the underwater world in a whole new way.
With the right training, mindset, and preparation, it can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling types of diving out there.
Now, let’s hear from you. What’s the deepest dive you’ve done, and where was it?
