VRELO IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST AND МОST BEAUTIFUL CAVES I HAVE EVER SEEN
Polish caving diver Krzysztof Starnavski who dived today into the cave Vrelo on the lake Matka on a depth of 230 meters thus braking the record of 212 meters set in 2010, shortly after leaving the cave, exclusively for “Glass Full” shared his impressions from Vrelo, according to him, one of the largest and most beautiful caves that he had seen. He sais, with great logistical support and accompanied by the members of the diving clubs “Vrelo” and “Akvatek” and after more than 5 hours diving he managed to reach the undiscovered parts of the underwater cave. About the challenges he faces, his motive, the preparations, health & safety measures, what he thinks when he is in the uterus of the earth and how he relaxes himself, find out the in the interview below ……
Why Matka and Vrelo, what was the challenge?
“Vrelo” is a beauty that only very people have the privilege to enjoy, one of its kind, very deep and still unexplored. This cave is one of the most beautiful and biggest caves I’ve ever seen, it was a true challenge to overcome its interior.
What psycho-physical preparation and training should have a caving diver to enter into a caves at big depths?
I have no special program, my whole life is dedicated to this. For 25 years I constantly go through trainings because my profession requires it. By profession I am a mountain rescuer and part of the alpine rescue team of Poland.
What kind of equipment is needed for serious cave diving?
Speleological diving requires special equipment. Apart from the standard diving equipment, in diving at big depths a special breathing apparatus – rebreather is needed. It is a closed breathing system which allows diving without switching oxygen tanks. Actually, it absorbs carbon dioxide and allows the diver to recycled an unused oxygen in each breath. This type, except under water is also used in space missions, submarines, parachuting at high altitudes, in the mining rescue, mountaineering.
Long absences from home, high professional risk with each new expedition … how do you balance between private life and profession? How do you relax?
I only think on nice things. 🙂
What are you thinking while you’re in the uterus of the earth when it is deep, dark and cold? What motivates you to go deeper and deeper?
When I go deep, I maximum concentrate myself so that I can do the diving safely and to perfection. But when I go through the decompression procedure, I think of a cold beer and the little pleasures that makes life.
You reached a depth of 230 meters. What does it means?
I’m ready to go and a lot more, but this was my first meeting with “Vrelo” which was preceded by a four-day training. Along with the Macedonian team we check whether it is possible to do something more. The expedition aimed to gather information of the undiscovered parts of the underwater cave, to discover how far it extends. According to my assumptions, the cave opens deeper and I believe there are parts that have not been stepped by any person. But we will leave it for some later expedition. You know, when I dive, I go step by step and I always do small steps, that’s how I’m still alive.
What kind of certifications / licenses are required for cave diving?
At first the diver must be certified for diving in open waters, and then must pass special programs and courses in order to be certified for diving in caves.
What skills should have a professional cave diver?
A professional cave diver must be very ready, to pass all the training and get ready for a lot of sacrifices, since speleologist diving is considered as one of the most dangerous professions in the world. But statistically safer compared to recreational diving because this profession imposes many training, experience and quality equipment.
Can we break down the record of 283 meters in the Red Sea?
I do not pressure myself with records, but if there is a record that’s okay. I am lead by the will for exploration.
What do you cheer with after a big success?
With a beer 🙂
Which is you next destination?
For now, my home.
