At what depth should divers be particularly cautious about narcosis when diving on a wreck?

Narcosis, often referred to as "martini effect," is a potential hazard for divers that occurs at greater depths due to the effects of increased pressure on nitrogen in the body. The effects of narcosis can impair judgment, coordination, and decision-making, making it particularly important for divers to be aware of their depth and the associated risks.

When diving to around 27 meters (90 feet), divers typically encounter narcosis that can begin to affect cognitive function, especially if they are not acclimatized to deeper dives. At this depth, the increase in nitrogen pressure can start to elicit noticeable symptoms in many divers, leading to decreased awareness and impaired cognitive abilities. This is crucial when exploring wrecks, where maintaining clarity of thought is essential for safety, navigation, and responding to potential emergencies.

The consideration of depth here is particularly relevant because diving at this zone often coincides with various wreck sites, which may also pose additional challenges, such as complex environments and limited visibility. Understanding the threshold for narcosis allows divers to prepare better and take necessary precautions, such as diving with a buddy or using specific dive plans that involve less depth for safety in challenging situations.