A sixth diver was reportedly spared from the Maldives cave-diving tragedy after a last-minute decision kept her on the expedition boat while five Italian divers entered a deep underwater cave and never returned. The survivor, said to be a University of Genoa student, had planned to join the group but stayed aboard the Duke of York, making her a key witness as investigators reconstruct the final moments of the dive.
Five Italian Divers Lost During Cave Expedition
The incident happened in Vaavu Atoll, where the group was exploring underwater caves at around 50 meters, or about 165 feet. Italian officials confirmed the five victims were Monica Montefalcone, Giorgia Sommacal, Muriel Oddenino, Gianluca Benedetti, and Federico Gualtieri.
The divers were part of a larger Italian expedition aboard the Duke of York, a live-aboard vessel used for diving trips in the Maldives. Around 20 other Italian participants on the same expedition were reported safe.
How Did the Sixth Diver Survive?
The sixth diver survived because she reportedly changed her mind shortly before the dive and remained on the yacht. Reports say she had planned to join the underwater cave expedition but did not enter the water with the others.
That decision has been described as a twist of fate. She is now returning to Italy and may help investigators understand the planning, timing, and conditions before the group entered the cave.
Recovery Efforts Face Dangerous Conditions
Search and recovery teams have faced rough seas, difficult cave conditions, and serious safety risks. One body, identified as diving instructor Gianluca Benedetti, was recovered near the cave entrance, while teams continued efforts to reach others believed to be trapped inside.
AP reported that recovery work was suspended at one point because of bad weather. Two Italian diving experts were also expected to join the operation as teams mapped the cave and prepared to search deeper chambers.
Why Is Cave Diving So Risky?
Cave diving is one of the most dangerous forms of scuba activity because divers cannot simply rise straight to the surface if something goes wrong. Narrow passages, low visibility, deep water pressure, air-management problems, and panic can all turn a difficult dive into an emergency.
Experts cited in reports said possible causes under review include technical problems, human error, oxygen-related complications, or panic at depth. Investigators have not confirmed a final cause.
Maldives Authorities Open Investigation
Maldivian officials have suspended the Duke of York’s license while the investigation continues. Authorities are reviewing the dive plan, safety procedures, vessel operations, weather, equipment, and whether local diving rules were followed.
The Maldives has a recommended recreational diving limit of 30 meters, while this cave expedition reportedly went much deeper, around 50 meters. That detail is expected to be central to the inquiry.
Key Takeaways
- A sixth diver reportedly survived after staying on the boat at the last minute.
- Five Italian divers were lost during a deep cave dive in Vaavu Atoll.
- One body has been recovered, while recovery efforts continue for others.
- Rough weather and cave conditions have slowed the operation.
- Authorities have suspended the dive vessel’s license during the investigation.
The survivor’s last-minute decision may now become one of the most important details in understanding how the Maldives cave-diving tragedy unfolded.