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Daniel,
What you are looking for is "Intro-To-Cave" certification. Both NACD
and NSS-CDS offer this. I took these courses just last April.
In addition to Open Water Certification (some instructors recommend
Advanced Open Water Certification) You'll need a Cavern Certification
prior to taking the intro to cave training. Many instructors teach
cavern and intro back to back. The training is usually two days long
for each course. Expect to pay around $150 per course.
You'll also need some additional equipment; a seven foot hose for a
back=up regulator, "Y" valve, two regulators (first and second
stages), a couple of reels, three lights, and some miscellaneous
stuff.
Personnaly, I like the Dive-Rite 12-VDC "Butt Brick" light with the 50
watt bulb for a main light and a few Pelican lights for back-up. I'm
also fond of the stainless steel reels for main use and the aluminum
for gap reels. But that's ME, not you. You have to determine what
you're comfortable with. Before you start collecting additional
equipment, talk with an instructor or shop that specializes in cave
diving. Cavers' are pretty "up-front" and the instuctors aren't
likely to "sell" or recommend something you don't need.
You don't mention where you're from or where you plan on training, but
if you can get to Florida, do it. I trained in Northern Florida
(Branford/Ginnie Springs area) and can recommend it highly. The water
is crystal clear and there are many instructors and dive sites. To
get more info call Dustin Clessi at the Steamboat Dive Inn in Branford
Florida. Phone (904) 935-2283/3483. He's got some training brochures
that will provide more information.
If you'd like to discuss further call me.
(708) 658-2693 or E mail to 'OBCRB@CW*.ce*.co*'
Good luck,
Rich B.
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