Guardians of the Deep: Marco Cosentino on Freediving Safety, Risk, and Responsibility
Inside the mind, methods, and mission of one of the most respected safety divers in freediving history.
This interview originally appeared in Pillar One of The Depth Collector Book Two, the section dedicated to Safety and Rescue. I am republishing it here as part of Depth Talks, a series of conversations with freedivers, coaches, and ocean people whose experience shaped the way I think about training, performance, and depth.
Safety divers selflessly commit themselves to aiding others in realizing their dreams, often taking risks to make those dreams possible. Certain names emerge as paragons of excellence among these guardian angels, and Marco Cosentino stands tall among them. To call him a living legend is, frankly, an understatement; I am, without a doubt, a huge fan and could not believe I was going to meet him in the Bahamas.
Marco has inscribed his legacy onto the pages of freediving history. He was there at the first Vertical Blue (VB) competition, has served as the chief of safety for numerous world championships, and is the founder and director of the Professional Safety Freediver® program within the Vertical Blue freediving educational program. Beyond his safety achievements, Marco is a skilled freediver, spearfisher, sailor, and an excellent coffee maker.
It's a true honor to have him in this book.
Ladies and gentlemen, attach your lanyard and get ready. Let's dive into the incredible world of the best safety diver in the sea.
In This Interview |
From the Sea to Vertical Blue
Can you share your journey into the world of freediving and what inspired you to become one of the best chief safety officers in the world?
Marco: From a young age, my connection with the sea was an inherent part of my being. Growing up with the passion for underwater exploration transferred to me by my father and uncle, the ocean's embrace became a source of solace, unveiling the liberating world beneath the surface. As my affinity for the underwater realm deepened, so did my fascination with the art and science of freediving. I attended my first freediving course in 1996 in Italy, and I was already a good spearfisher and a professional water polo player. I became a freediving instructor in 2004. From that moment, I started teaching freediving, competing in both pure freediving and spearfishing competitions, and training all year round with the freediving school I founded in Rome.
In 2004, during a freediving stage in Santa Teresa di Gallura (Sardinia), I first met William Trubridge. At that time, he was starting his journey in creating his legendary Constant Weight with No Fins career in the discipline he invented, and we became friends.
Later, in 2008, I met him again during a freediving workshop in Italy, where we were both teaching. He invited me—together with other instructor friends—to join the Vertical Blue Safety Team in the competition he was going to organize in the Bahamas in 2009. The competition would take place in the Dean's Blue Hole on a remote island named Long Island. It's a pure and uncontaminated paradise and, above all, a fantastic natural place for freediving.
VB2009 was my first VB event, and in that event, I completely fell in love with Dean's Blue Hole, with the island, and with all that is around competitive freediving and safety management. The event was attended by some of the greatest legends of the sport: William Trubridge, Herbert Nitsch, Sara Campbell, William Winram, Leo Muraoka, Davide Carrera, Walid Boudhiaf, Eric Fattah… If you want to compare it with soccer, it was like meeting and supporting Maradona, Pelè, Baggio, Ronaldo (the Brazilian), Messi… Simply amazing! That was the beginning of my total and full commitment to freediving safety, and after 15 years, in 2023, I attended my 14th VB event.
At that time (2009)he safety team was composed of very good freedivers capable of easily diving and rescuing people from 40m but with very poor knowledge of emergency management techniques, airways management, and pathologies related to freediving incidents.
From 2018 on, when I held the positions of VB Chief of Safety and AIDA Safety Officer, my quest for excellence in safety wasn't just a professional pursuit; it evolved into a deeply personal mission fueled by an enduring passion for preserving the beauty and integrity of freediving. Thus, I dedicated myself to creating the Professional Safety Freediver® program and promoting a new, more professional freediving safety culture.
What drives your passion for ensuring safety in freediving, and how do you maintain your enthusiasm and commitment in this challenging field?
Marco: The inspiration to assume the role of a chief safety officer emanates from my unwavering commitment to elevate safety protocols within the freediving community. It's a calling rooted in a profound respect for the ocean's mysteries and a genuine concern for the well-being of those who venture into its depths. Throughout the years, my skills were honed through rigorous training and collaboration with leading experts in the field, both medics and experienced freedivers. My journey involved mastering the safety procedures, staying abreast of cutting-edge technologies, and cultivating a deep understanding of human physiology in freediving.
The Moments That Changed Freediving Safety
What was a defining moment in your career that shaped your approach to freediving safety? Have you had a personal experience with a diving incident that significantly influenced your approach?
Marco: A pivotal moment in my journey arrived in VB2013 when Nicholas Mevoli lost his life after a CNF National Record attempt. A new generation of freedivers was approaching, and we were all unprepared to manage such a kind of performances, annexed risks, and potential injuries and incidents that came with it.
The loss of N. Mevoli has been like a punch in the face for the freediving community, and from that event, something started changing in the rules and regulations. However, the safety management was still at the amateur level, and all of us–safeties and medics–were still working without specific standards and procedures. After 2013, improvement in the safety domain became an obsession and a kind of mission, but what gave me the motivation to deepen my knowledge in Safety Management–and so to create the Professional Safety Freediver® program, nowadays adopted by AIDA and CMAS in both educational and competitive freediving–has been the loss of Stephen Keenan back on July 22, 2017.
I worked and shared my room with Stephen during VB2016 and VB2017. In 2016, Stephen was Platform Coordinator, and I was in the water as senior safety, while in 2017, Steve was Chief of Safety, and I worked under his coordination.
VB event took place in April 2017, and in July 2017–as you all probably know–Steve lost his life in a heroic attempt to save another life while freediving the Arch in the Dahab's Blue Hole. I remember precisely the moment when I saw the news appearing on Facebook, I remember exactly where I was, and I recall that I immediately tried to call Jono Sunnex–former competitive freediver and safety freediver who contributed to the definition of some of the actual in-water safety procedures defined in the Professional Safety Diver® program–to understand what happened. It has been a massive loss for the freediving community and the most shocking event for me since 2013.
It took months to metabolize the loss of Steve for me and the VB Safety Team. For VB2018, after a long discussion with William–we agreed that I was going to take his role as Chief of Safety. That was a huge responsibility on my shoulders in the competition, which would have seen the Diveye debut. For the first time, the whole freediving world could see what was happening in the water and how the safety team operated while rescuing athletes.
To honor his memory and his sacrifice, I recognized the imperative need to enhance safety measures within the freediving community and recognize the professional role of the safety freedivers. Motivated by a profound desire to contribute to the sport I cherish positively, I embarked on a transformative path in freediving safety management, aspiring to create state-of-the-art procedures and, above all, to elevate the role of the safeties to the place they deserve.
In addition, I always thought that the global image of an extreme sport was highly dependent on the level of professionalism that safety management could provide. To approach the general public, freediving had to be seen as an extreme sport in which athletes push human underwater limits but with very professional and organized safety management, in a sentence, an extreme but secure sport.
Training the Safety Diver
How has your training and experience as a freediver influenced your perspective on safety?
Marco: I'm a freediver and spearfisher, and I know precisely which risks we are exposed to while practicing the sport we love. The following factors have driven my approach to safety:
Reducing risks by assessing and analyzing all the potential sources of risks
Putting in place all the mitigation measures to accept, reduce, or eliminate risks
Studying human physiology to try to understand how to manage events and incidents happening in the water
Training myself always to be ready to perform optimally knowing my limits and potential
Do you undertake specific mental or physical preparations before a major freediving competition?
Marco: I train all year round, both in the gym and in the water, and therefore, my average state of shape is always quite good. I love training and believe that physical and mental training are the keys to expressing your full potential.
Before a competitions, I'm fully committed to coordinating the team's activities, performing drills, and having meetings to optimize the synchronization of all the actors involved in safety management. Mental and physical preparation are very well defined and achieved weeks before the beginning of the event.
How do you stay updated with the latest safety techniques, medical protocols, and equipment in freediving?
Marco: Being the chief of safety of the Vertical Blue competition and the AIDA Safety Officer puts me in the position of defining the standards, procedures, and protocols adopted in competitions. For example, I've been pushing in the past (when Carla Hanson was AIDA President) for splitting between the in-water safety domain and the out-of-water safety domain and finally–initially adopting this splitting within the Professional Safety Freediver® program and also in the VB event–I managed to have these two domains separated and this new concept adopted in AIDA and CMAS.
Building the Safety System
What crucial points do you consider when organizing safety for a freediving event? Do you study the athletes? Do you assess water conditions like thermoclines and currents?
Marco: Competition location, logistics analysis, and involvement of all the stakeholders in risk assessment are the key driving factors in defining the emergency management plan and optimizing safety procedures. In addition to this analysis, a detailed study of the athletes is performed and it is based on:
Quantitative analysis: Collection of historical data on the athlete's performance (I have my file with more than 7,000 dives from almost all the athletes who have been competing in major competitions worldwide since 2008. I have statistics with % of blackouts, % of surface protocol failure due to LMC or 'samba,' and other vital parameters supporting the 'profiling' of the athlete.
Qualitative analysis: During the two weeks of official training before the beginning of the competition, I collect all the information on athletes' performance, which gives me an indication of the athletes' actual statuses in the specific competition.
Mixing the data coming from qualitative and quantitative analysis, I assign a risk profile to each athlete for each dive announcement. This risk profile is reflected in the safety measures that we put in place during the competition: depending on the risk profile (High-Medium-Low), I can decide to treat the identified risk in a proper way (accepting risk, removing risk, or mitigating risk) by applying different safety measures (additional safety countermeasures, standard safety procedures). All the VB and world championship events since 2018 have applied this methodology. It is also included in the Professional Safety Freediver® program, which is now adopted in AIDA Safety Courses.
How do you train and prepare your team to ensure safety during high-stakes competitions?
Marco: Before the competition, we have remote training sessions in which I provide all the theoretical aspects and the documented safety procedures. At the diving location, we refresh all the documented safety procedures and emergency management activities with the medical team and all the stakeholders involved (theory sessions and meetings). We perform daily specific safety drills regarding realistic scenarios. The most important aspect of emergency management is the coordination of the involved actors and the particular preparation of each member for each role.
What essential qualities do you look for when choosing members for your safety team?
Marco: The prerequisites are physical preparation, the ability to dive to 50m in CWT easily, and the ability to perform a solo rescue from 40m. But the most important aspect for me is the attitude of the safety and his\her ability to work in a team–a team which becomes a kind of family in the 2-3 weeks of the event–respecting roles and responsibilities, and working, while having in mind the main goal of provisioning of a top-level service to the sport while controlling ego.
Reading the Diver
Are there common mistakes freedivers make when executing a rescue? What details should we all be careful about?
Marco: Usually, a lack of experience, specific training on reference scenarios, and coordination in the emergency management procedures can generate mistakes while executing a rescue.
Specific mistakes that should be considered:
Closure of airways at depth
Transportation techniques from depth, solo and in team rescue
Airway management immediately after surfacing (proper application of surface protocols and rescue breaths)
When you meet the diver at depth, what is the first thing you pay attention at? The lips? The eyes? Something else?
Marco: Some specific signs that are giving the safety visual evidence that the dive is going well include:
Good streamlining
Coordinated finning/strokes
Movements look effortless
Good body position relative to the dive line; the diver moves in a vertical direction
Clear, focused eyes
Face looks relaxed
Some specific signs that give the safety visual evidence that the dive is not going well include:
Changes in the rhythm of the stroke/finning
Irregular finning/strokes
Labored movements/lack of coordination
Small distance covered with each stroke
Freediver stops
Freediver goes 'limp'
I often tell my students that we have a sixth sense, and we feel when something is not right, when this happens, we should act. Is this something that becomes even sharper when doing safety at your level?
Marco: The sixth sense, as you called it, is always there: the inner voice–or instinct–in the back of your mind that gives you the perception that something is not going well. The only issue when listening to this voice (BUT when you do not have specific experience on the field) is that this inner voice can lead to overreaction and so provide support when the athlete is still working on his/her performance. Experience on the field, periodic training, and the ability to read specific signs coming from visual observation of the athlete/diver while ascending can support the inner voice in adequately managing the timing of your intervention.
I am always ready for the worst-case scenario when doing safety. Is it a mindset you agree with? Can you elaborate on your mindset?
Marco: You always have to prepare yourself considering the worst-case scenario. I fully agree with this approach.
Inside a Day of Competition Safety
Could you describe a typical day in your role as Chief of Safety during a freediving competition?
Marco: As a chief safety officer during a freediving competition, each day is characterized by a meticulous blend of preparation, vigilance, and swift response to ensure the safety of participants. Here's a glimpse into a typical day in this crucial role:
Early Morning Preparation:
Review Safety Protocols and Provide Briefing Session: Conduct a briefing session with the safety team to discuss the day's schedule, weather conditions, potential risks, and any specific instructions or changes to safety procedures.
Equipment Check: Verify the readiness and functionality of all safety equipment, including first aid kits, oxygen tanks, communication devices, and rescue gear.
During the Competition:
Deployment of Safety Divers and Monitoring Conditions: Continuously monitor weather conditions, sea state, and any environmental factors that could impact the safety of the competition.
Medical Support: Ensure that medical personnel are on standby and equipped to provide immediate assistance in case of health issues or emergencies.
Post-Competition Analysis:
Debriefing Session: Conduct a debriefing session with the safety team to discuss the day's events, evaluate the effectiveness of safety procedures, and address any challenges encountered.
Incident Documentation: If there were any incidents or emergencies, thoroughly detail the response and outcomes for future analysis.
Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for improvement in safety procedures, equipment, or communication strategies and implement necessary adjustments.
Evening Preparation for the Next Day:
Weather Forecast Review and Equipment Maintenance: Conduct any necessary maintenance on safety equipment and ensure that everything is in optimal condition for the next day.
How do you prepare for unexpected situations or emergencies during a competition?
Marco: Intense training and drills on reference realistic operational scenarios will increase preparation and drastically reduce risks.
How do you calculate the perfect timing to start the dive to safety deep divers?
Marco: Parameters to be taken into account are the speed of the athlete, announced dive time, the speed of the safety in reaching the target depth, and the bottom plate turn (this is a crucial moment). The safety shall make all these calculations and can be supported by the platform safety (who can tell an inexperienced safety when starting his/her dive to meet the athlete at the target depth time).
Teaching a New Safety Culture
Are you involved in any educational initiatives or campaigns to promote safety in freediving outside of competitions?
Marco: In 2020, I signed a contract with AIDA (on behalf of Vertical Blue Ltd company in which I'm a shareholder). I decided to provide all the Professional Safety Freediver® material (more than 250 slides and techniques) to AIDA for free. Now, after two years, the new AIDA Safety Courses by Vertical Blue Professional Safety Freedivers will see the light, and the entire freediving community will be able to access this knowledge. I've been collaborating with CMAS in the past, and the actual head of CMAS safety is one of my students who attended the Professional Safety Freediver® course. I've also contributed to the definition of Molchanovs Lap/Wave 4 - Competitive Freediving course guidelines.
What advice would you offer to organizers of new freediving competitions to prioritize safety from the outset?
Marco: Organizing a freediving competition requires meticulous planning and a steadfast commitment to safety. Here are vital advice for organizers of new freediving competitions to prioritize safety from the outset:
Safety team expertise
Risk assessment
Clear safety protocols
Participant screening
Medical support
Safety equipment
Communication plan
Weather monitoring
Training and briefings
Continuous evaluation
Emergency response drills
Legal and insurance considerations
Prioritizing safety from the outset is not only a moral responsibility but also essential for the success and credibility of a freediving competition. By establishing a strong safety framework and cultivating a safety-conscious culture, organizers can create an environment where participants can push their limits while knowing that their well-being is paramount.
How Freediving Safety Is Evolving
How has freediving safety evolved over the years, and where do you see it heading in the future?
Marco: With the creation of the Professional Safety Freediver® program in 2019, I tried to harmonize safety standards at the international level, and it has been the first step towards global standardization of safety protocols and educational programs. Today, AIDA adopted the program in its academic curriculum and competition, and CMAS also uses the Professional Safety Freediver® standards. It will ensure a consistent approach to safety across different regions and competitions while continuously keeping the focus on research and education. In fact, further research into the physiological aspects of freediving and continued education on safety practices will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the sport and its risks.
What innovations or advancements in technology could significantly improve safety in freediving competitions in the future?
Marco: Improving diving equipment, safety gear, underwater communication systems, and monitoring devices will enhance safety measures. Continued integration of advanced technology, such as improved dive computers, real-time monitoring systems, and artificial intelligence, may provide enhanced safety measures. We are constantly working and researching new supporting technologies, but the human factor is and will always be crucial in safety management.
Why the Work Matters
What's the most rewarding aspect of your work in freediving competition safety?
Marco: I've been providing safety in the last 15+ years in the most important competitions worldwide, and for me, it has become a kind of mission and source of motivation. Witnessing the growth and success of freediving events, with participants pushing their limits in a safe and controlled manner, brought a sense of accomplishment and pride. In addition, receiving positive feedback from participants, event organizers, or the freediving community is definitely rewarding and validating.
Lastly, what is one message you would like to share with the freediving community about the importance of safety in this sport?
Marco: Freediving is a sport that demands both respect and responsibility. The vastness of the ocean and the depths we explore require a commitment to safety that transcends individual pursuits. Every descent is an encounter with the unknown, and every ascent is a triumph over the challenges of the deep. Let safety be our guiding light in this remarkable journey. It is not a restriction but a liberation, a safeguard that allows us to revel in the beauty of the underwater world while mitigating the inherent risks.
The Way Home
Marco represents everything a safety diver should be. He combines experience, precision, calm, physical ability, technical knowledge, and a level of responsibility that has helped redefine what professional freediving safety should look like. His work allows freedivers to chase depth and push the limits of what we think is possible.
Even before I met him, Marco inspired me to treat safety as the most important part of my own freediving journey. I have never seen it as something you practise once during a course and then quietly forget. After every training session, I rehearse rescues, and I push my students to do the same. We need to be ready for the worst-case scenario before it happens, because when someone’s life depends on us, improvisation is not a plan.
Everyone reading these lines should do the same. Practise rescues during every session. They do not need to be deep. The goal is to build a response so familiar that, when the moment comes, your body already knows what to do. And even though I would love to say otherwise, sooner or later, that moment usually comes.
Becoming a solid safety diver has also taken me places I never expected. It allowed me to train alongside some of the deepest freedivers in the world, watch them closely, support them, and learn an extraordinary amount from athletes I might never otherwise have shared a line with.
Big respect to Marco, and to all the angels in the ocean. You are the heroes the freediving world needs.
The athlete may be the one chasing depth.
The safety diver makes sure that journey has a way home.
Connect with Marco
Marco has spent years helping raise the standard of freediving safety worldwide. To learn more about his courses, projects, safety programs, and current work, follow the links below.
linkedin profike: Marco Cosentino - Freediver https://it.linkedin.com/in/marco-cosentino-freediver
Instagram: freediversitalia
Further Reading
Safety is not a chapter you read once and then move past. It is a skill that must be trained, repeated, and kept sharp until the right response becomes automatic.
In Safety Manual for Freediving, I break down the risks, rescue procedures, emergency response, and practical habits every freediver should understand before pushing deeper.
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