![]() Before restrictions were in place, a group of 13 divers died while exploring the caverns in the 1990s. The depths of this cave are notorious and exploring it has caused controversy. A gate has been placed there to stop anyone from going deeper into it. A handrail starts at the entrance of the cave for assistance, and the path goes all the way down to 310 feet. The mouth of the cave is about 58 feet from the surface, and only expert divers are allowed to go inside until reaching 115 feet. The Cave The cave at Vortex Spring, Florida. The dive store has apparel and gear for sale too. Daily entrance fees apply, and the park hours depend on the season. Tubes, snorkeling equipment, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards may all be rented on-site. Walking trails and picnic tables are throughout the land, ideal for having a picnic before or after splashing around in the spring water. Inner tubing down the spring run is often done and a lot of fun, especially on a hot summer day. A tree house with a slide to the water, toys, swings, and diving boards are set up in this space. The swimming and snorkeling areas are downstream from the diving section and are great for families. Diving training classes are offered for a cost but will give anyone the necessary skills for enjoying the park and the sport. There are some on-site instructors who can teach novices and two underwater training platforms that are utilized for Open Water certification dives.Ĭertification is required to go into the depths of the cave. Scuba diving is one of the top activities in the park, and it’s set up for all skill levels. Scuba Diving and Other Activities Scuba Diving at Vortex Spring, Florida. ![]() Many types of fish live in these waters, including eels and carp. The spring outflow runs into Otter Creek, which connects with Sandy Creek just upstream of Ponce de Leon Spring. Producing about 28 million gallons of clear water daily, the 68℉ spring fills a large 200-foot basin with a cave below. Since 1972, the establishment is still run by the same family but has been taken over by a new generation. The couple is responsible for designing the red and white “Diver Down” flag, one of the most recognized scuba diving symbols. Navy and took on the spring area as a retirement project after learning a new hobby, scuba diving. Denzel Dockery was newly retired from the U.S. Historyįormally known as “Blue Spring,” Vortex Spring was purchased and renamed by Denzel and Ruth Dockery in 1968. ![]() With 520 acres to explore and plenty of instruction available, this resort is also one of the safest and most family-friendly attractions for those who enjoy being in the water. Located in the town of Ponce de Leon, Vortex Spring is the largest diving facility in The Sunshine State. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |