Women Who Tech Dive Marta Casellas -

Marta Casellas

Women beyond diving limits

Name
Marta Casellas

Country of origin
Spain

Place of residence
Tarragona

Dive club / dive center
Naturtek

Highest diving certifications
Full Cave Diver

How was your first dive?

I needed to buy a birthday gift and decided to go for a try-dive experience. It required a dive buddy, so of course, I went along. It was in Tossa de Mar, just the instructor, my friend and I. The experience felt so personal and special. I was completely amazed by the feeling of weightlessness and the absolute calmness of the underwater world. I loved it so much that the following summer, the first thing I did was get my diving certification to keep exploring this new world.

What made you transition from sport diving to technical diving?

One day, while browsing the internet, I randomly came across a video of Mexico’s Cenotes. I was completely mesmerized by the images of those submerged passages, the beams of light breaking through, and the mysterious atmosphere they had. Right then and there, I told myself, “I need to be there.” That moment sparked something in me, and I started researching technical diving. I knew I had to train for it if I ever wanted to explore places like that.

What type of technical diving do you enjoy the most, and what draws you to it?

Cave diving has my heart. There’s something about squeezing through a narrow passage, venturing into a space that might be unexplored, that absolutely fascinates me. The formations that took millions of years to form, the darkness surrounding everything, the feeling of adventure, and the complete disconnection from the surface world—it’s a mix of excitement and respect that keeps pulling me in.

What do you consider when looking for technical diving training?

Real-world experience is key. I don’t just look at an instructor’s credentials or the courses they teach. I want to know about their actual dives outside of training environments. Learning from someone with firsthand experience in a variety of situations makes all the difference. It’s not just about knowledge, but also about absorbing the mindset and decision-making skills that only come from real-life challenges.

Besides formal training, what other skills do you think are essential for technical diving?

Mental strength is everything. You need to have the right mindset—this isn’t about competition or ego. It’s about knowing your limits and making smart decisions based on safety, not pressure. Staying calm, managing stress, and being able to think rationally under difficult conditions are all crucial.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in technical diving?

Definitely dealing with the weight and bulk of the gear. Carrying and handling all the equipment, especially in tricky dive entry spots, can be tough. But with time and practice, you learn techniques that make it easier. I also think there’s sometimes an underestimation of what we can do just because we’re women, but at the end of the day, skill and training matter far more than gender.

Why do you think technical diving is still a male-dominated sport?

I think this happens in many extreme sports, not just diving. Society has historically associated adventure and high-risk activities with men, though that’s slowly changing. Another factor is that women have traditionally had more family responsibilities, which has made it harder to dedicate time to demanding sports like this. But more and more of us are breaking that mold every day.

What message or advice would you give to other women considering technical diving?

Underwater, there’s no real difference between men and women. It all comes down to preparation, knowledge and mindset. Don’t be intimidated by the initial challenges—get physically ready, trust your training and go for it. Tech diving can seem daunting at first, but with the right education and the right team, it’s an incredibly rewarding world to step into.

What has been your most memorable dive so far?

Without a doubt, the second sump of Pozo Azul (Spain cave). It’s one of those experiences that sticks with you—not just because of the technical challenge, but because of the sheer beauty and vastness of the place. Every meter you move forward is a mix of thrill and deep respect for your surroundings. It’s a dive that requires a lot of preparation and focus, but the feeling of being there, in such a remote and extraordinary place, is indescribable.

Have you faced any really difficult moments while technical diving? How did you overcome them?

Yes. I got lost and lost visibility inside a cave. It’s the kind of situation that can easily lead to panic if you’re not prepared. Thankfully, my training and the experience of my dive team helped me stay calm. I knew my gas calculations were solid and that gave me the confidence to work through the problem logically. Moments like that really show you how vital preparation and teamwork are.

What places in the world would you love to dive in, and why?

Mexico and Australia are at the top of my list. Mexico for its incredible cave systems, which are some of the most breathtaking in the world. Just the thought of exploring those submerged tunnels excites me. And Australia because I also love marine life and the ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef. Two completely different experiences, but both would be amazing.

What are your next goals in technical diving?

I don’t really like setting fixed goals in diving. It’s more about enjoying the journey rather than chasing a specific achievement. I just want to keep learning, exploring, and refining my skills without feeling pressured to check off a particular milestone. Every dive is an opportunity to grow and enjoy.

Do you have a dive buddy you trust completely?

Yes, I have a few. Trust is everything in technical diving and knowing you can rely on your dive team in any situation is crucial for both safety and peace of mind.

What qualities do you look for in a great tech diving buddy?

Awareness. A great dive buddy is always paying attention—to their surroundings, to their equipment and to what’s happening with the team. It’s not just about personal safety; it’s about looking out for each other and staying in tune with any changes in the dive environment.

What do you value the most about your dive buddy, both in and out of the water?

Someone who’s willing to call off a dive if they’re not feeling comfortable. It sounds simple, but not everyone has the self-awareness and confidence to make that call when needed. I really respect and appreciate a dive buddy who prioritizes safety over ego, both in and out of the water.