Vortex Springs, Ponce De Leon, FL
Dive into Crystal-Clear Adventure at Vortex Springs!
Are you ready to have a fun diving weekend with John Mowrey, King of the Springs? This month John will be showing the group the wonders of Vortex Springs!!
Discover one of Florida’s most popular freshwater dive spots—Vortex Springs in Ponce de Leon. With 68-degree crystal-clear water year-round, stunning underwater caverns, and abundant aquatic life, it's the perfect place for beginners and pros alike. Whether you're earning your certification or just exploring, adventure awaits beneath the surface!
Availability: Contact us for booking information
Weekend Dive Adventure at Vortex Springs
Looking for the perfect weekend escape filled with adventure, exploration, and underwater magic? Join us at Vortex Springs, Florida’s largest diving facility and one of the most beautiful freshwater dive locations in the Southeast.
Just a 7-hour drive from St. Pete, this 520-acre natural paradise produces 28 million gallons of crystal-clear spring water daily, staying a refreshing 68°F year-round. The spring basin opens to a cavern that drops to 50 feet. Surface lit during the day and inhabited by Koi, Gar, Catfish, American Eels, Redhorse Suckers, Blue Gill, and Bass to name a few. These will surely be your constant companions, and are tame enough to eat right out of your hand, an underwater photographers dream.
We’ll all arrive on Friday, September 5th, giving everyone time to settle into their accommodations and prep for a full weekend of diving. The group will meet at 8 a.m. CST on Saturday, ready to dive into 2–3 dives throughout the day—or more if you're up for it! As the sun sets, gear up for a night dive at 6:30 p.m., an unforgettable experience under the stars. Sunday’s schedule mirrors Saturday’s, with the option of another night dive for those staying over. John plans to head back Monday morning, but you're welcome to extend your adventure!
Accommodations range from primitive tent sites and camper setups with electric to rustic cabins, lodges, and even a four-bedroom house called the Treasure Chest. For those seeking a bit more comfort, nearby hotels in Ponce de Leon start at just $69/night.
Daily dive passes are $25 per person, available at the on-site dive shop. For those who qualify, they offer a 10% military discount as well. While tanks and air fills are available at Vortex ($20 for a tank, $6 per air fill), we recommend picking up at least two tanks and any rental gear from Letts Dive before the trip.
Thinking about doing some training while you’re there?
This is a prime location for courses like Advanced Open Water, Deep, Wreck, Night, Navigation, and more. Just let us know what you’re interested in ahead of time, so we can make sure you have time to finish the eLearning and so we can bring the right gear.
Whether you’re working on a certification, expanding your skills, or just enjoying some quality underwater time with friends, this trip has something for everyone. Mark your calendars, pack your gear, and let’s make it a weekend to remember at Vortex Springs.
