Customer Reviews

Darkness Beckons: The History and Development of Cave Diving

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Martin Farr's book is by far the best book on the subject of history and development of cave diving. It is really exciting as you follow the development of the sport over the years from before the war to the latest trimix dives, scooter etc... Geographically it concentrates on the UK (about 1/3 of the book) and then Europe, USA and the rest of the world. Mandatory for anyone involved in cave diving and recommended for all interested in adventure stories.

Farr tells the complete story of cave diving in England's caves (often sumps), and then describes all major explorations worldwide (up until the beginning of the nineties). The book is not centered on Florida's caves so american cave divers might be somewhat disappointed. There are many pictures and drawings, the account is always accurate and detailed. It is a very interesting lecture and reference for any cave diver, not very much so for an open water diver. Cave divers are explorers that always pursue the extreme: deeper or longer into a cave; this will probably fascinate most adventure seeking people.

Nice description of cave diving history, 2 thirds of the books related to Great Britain cave systems.