Vortex Springs

[Digger54]

Going down to Vortex next weekend to dive on the 18th and 19th of Jan with my LDS - MTSS (Middle Tennessee Scuba and Swim). Anyone else going? We'll have a pretty good group. Some are working on OW cert, some on Rescue. I'm just going to get the last few dives I need for Master Scuba Diver. May play the "victim" for the Rescue trainees if needed. I'll try not to silt things up to much as I thrash around -- Vortex was pretty murky last time I was down thanks to some training going on.

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

Have fun out there, I'm not planning on being there but ya never know :/

 

[Reef]

We may end up there one day if the Destin Jetties are blown out.

 

[Tom Smedley]

Vortex was silty last Sunday because of training. I don't know how you can keep open water students from stirring up the bottom. I did feel some flow in the cave but it's not strong and the basin takes a while to clear.

If you look at it though - maybe training is best when it is not in pristine conditions. The grassy lawn and facilities at Vortex still make it the most comfortable training location as far as springs go.

 

[MikeFerrara]

Vortex was silty last Sunday because of training.

Classes maybe but training isn't what I'd call it.

I don't know how you can keep open water students from stirring up the bottom.

I do. Just teach a few things in confined water before taking them to open water.

I did feel some flow in the cave but it's not strong and the basin takes a while to clear.

Vortex can take quite a while to clear.

If you look at it though - maybe training is best when it is not in pristine conditions. The grassy lawn and facilities at Vortex still make it the most comfortable training location as far as springs go.

Maybe but who wants to pay $20 (or whatever they charge these days) to dive in someone elses muck?

Diving in "less than pristine conditions" is good experience but what did the student learn if they were the cause of the "less than pristine conditions"?

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

Maybe but who wants to pay $20 (or whatever they charge these days) to dive in someone elses muck?

Where will they dive for less, with as many amenities in the area? Morrison and Cypress are both closed off by land. They can keep going to the Gulf, but beach entry at St. Andrews or Destin Jetties requires a walk to get to water far colder than the spring temps at this point of the year.

Offshore temps are up there with spring temps, but require more $$$.

The quarries are about the same cost. The lakes in GA are uber cold.

For training, Vortex is the perfect place in the area.

 

[easyrider003]

I will be there on the 19th. What thickness wetsuit would you recommend this time of year. I currently have a 3mm full wet suit but thinking of trying to purchase a 5mm or 7mm hooded vest to add for the trip.

 

[PCBCaptChris]

It's the same temp year around. It's whatever you are comfortable with personally. I'd probably get a beenie to go with the 3 mil. The hooded vest would probably be nice though. However, it is going to be very cold on the surface interval. That is where I would really invest in the thermal protection. I'd get out of the wet stuff while your on the surface. I like those chemical heat pads they sell.

 

[moosicman]

I'll be at Vortex on the 19th. There is a group meeting at 9:30. Hey Digger, I lived in Nashville for a time. It will be cool to meet ya and get to know ya! Let me know how to find you. I'll be driving a 2005 white Ford Mustang and wearing a Neosport wetsuit that is black and grey. See ya there!

 

[easyrider003]

ill be driving a maroon colored tahoe. Should be there around 9:30 or just a little earlier