Coasteering and sea level traversing or river gorge walking

These various descriptions are used to describe an activity which is a blend of rock climbing, caving and some water activities. It is climbing rock horizontally, either continuously or in sections.

Often, but not always, there is a higher risk level as it is not possible to escape from each section and some crossing between sections can require a swim.

The requirements for supervision are more like those for leading a group in a cave, the activity coaching is more like rock climbing and often the environment requires the knowledge and expertise associated with water activities, particularly when the activity takes place on the coast.

The Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) produce information which can be found on its website that recognises the difficulty in finding guidance on a single site elsewhere.

The requirements for leaders vary depending upon how demanding the location is and the environmental factors. A competent and experienced leader is required who holds a relevant governing body leadership award supported by local knowledge with a current first aid certificate.

Any school considering delivering this activity itself, which is popular with young people as one of its variations includes jumping into deep water, must first seek approval from the local authority.