Alexander Springs

[_Kurt_]

First, this is indeed a simple dive. But losing interest after 10 or 15 minutes is more a function of your attention level than the spring. I 've been to Alexander twice and thoroughly enjoyed it. I have about 175 minutes UW there, and I'm looking forward to returning. It all depends on why you dive.

During my dives I had several highlights. Exploring the crevices is pretty cool. If you take it slow you can get fairly much inside these holes and explore the interior. This isn't a cave dive, but there are some beautiful formations if you slow down and look. I also spent the better part of an hour watching turtles from UW. Counted at least 6 different types of turtles, and you can actually see how they spread their toes when they swim - but only if you look. On another dive, I was playing in the weedlines and just stopped and slowed my breathing. Within minutes there were hoards of crappie & bluegills coming to explore me. Got so close to look into my mask that I could see the red marking inside their throats, as well as the 3 mini teeth tucked just inside their lips. Back in the "deep" areas there also a fair amount of digging thru the rubble to find treasures that the boil kicks out.

Hey I like Alexander, but you have to be ready to do some slow exploration, and to look at things twice. This is a lovely example of a FL ecosystem that most folks here never see.

Excellent insight, MB. Thanks for the reminder to slow down and notice the less obvious things.
Kurt

 

[scubafool]

The dive shop in Deland has closed down. I noticed a "For Lease" sign out front last week. The mural on the front wall is still quite interesting, though. I've been using Deltona Professional Dive Center on the corner of 17-92 & Enterprise Rd for fills & small stuff for a while, & that would be the next closest place I have any personal knowledge of. Post back if anyone needs directions or phone #.

On a midsummer morning I've seen it fill up at about 10 AM. at the earliest, and yes they do stop the incoming line when the parking lot gets full. If I were you & were on vacation etc, I would try gto show up by 9 at the latest, as it would really blow to miss a preplanned dive. There is more diving to the west, but it is a decent drive. The next closest dive sight I can think of is Blue Springs in Orange City. Blue Spring would probably hold most diver's interest longer than Alexander, but as MB said, it is a matter of how you approach the dive. I find Blue Springs gets REALLY crowded at times, as all the OW divers end up in one large "shaft" that turns into a cavern zone past 60'. Post back to this thread when it gets close to the date, maybe I'll be able to join you.

 

[scubafool]

Sorry that I forgot to answer the second part of your question, NachoDaddy. My best estimate would be a 200 yard hike if you managed to get a good spot, no more than 300 yards if you parked on the far end of the lot.

 

[MB]

Thanks for the reminder to slow down and notice the less obvious things.
Kurt

I'm here to serve!

 

[ams511]

One thing to remember is that you need to register at the office for scuba and you must have a buddy. At least you did when I was there last in 1999.

 

[scubafool]

A buddy is not required when diving @ Alexander. One IS required @ Blue Springs. I don't know what the rules were like in '99, but I am certain that these rules apply now.