Vortex Spas™ Review (Prices, pros, cons and more)

Wondering if Vortex Spas™ are any good? In this article, we take an in-depth look at Vortex Spas™ products, prices, features reviews, pros, cons, and more.

Vortex Spas^® is owned by the same Australian company that owns Spa World™, the largest spa retailer in Australasia.

In this detailed article, we take an in-depth look at Vortex Spas™ to help you decide if this brand is right for you.

This article covers:

Who is Vortex Spas™?
Who owns Vortex Spas™?
Where are Vortex Spas™ made?
Vortex Spas™ Review – Running costs
Are Vortex Spas™ Spas worth it?

In this article, we’ve used brand names not affiliated with Spa World™ or Vortex Leisure Pty Ltd, the parent company of Spa World™. You can see the list of the brand owners at the bottom of this article. All information, including pricing and product details, was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.

Who is Vortex Spas™?

Vortex Spas™ manufactures a wide range of spas, swim spas, pergolas and saunas that are sold in over 20 countries worldwide.

On its website, Vortex Spas™ says it strives to match the quality of the premium US brands but at lower prices to offer better value. Vortex Spas™ is recognised for its innovative technologies, including pioneering UV sterilisation in spas and swim spas.

Vortex Spas™ has been a pioneer in the spa industry by being the first to introduce the Clearlift™, an innovative fully retractable automatic spa cover, to the Australian and New Zealand markets.

The company also designed and manufactured the Vortex™ IKON™ spa, which has won several international design awards, including the Good Design™ Australia award.

View Vortex Spas Range

Who owns Vortex Spas™?

Vortex Spas™ is ultimately owned by US-based Jacuzzi Group – the same company that owns Jacuzzi^® Spas, the inventors of spa pools as we know them today.

Vortex Spas™ was acquired by Jacuzzi Group^® in 2021. The company first established a relationship with Jacuzzi^® in 2019 as a supply partner.

Who sells Vortex Spas™ in New Zealand?

Vortex Spas™, Swim Spas, Saunas and Pergolas are available from Spa World™ – the largest spa retailer in Australasia.

Soon, you'll also find Vortex™ Saunas and Pergolas at our dealers.

You can buy Vortex Spas™ online via the Spa World™ website or by visiting Spa World™ showrooms in Australia.

Find Spa World™ Showrooms

Where are Vortex Spas™ made?

Vortex Spas™ are designed in Australia and New Zealand, and their products are manufactured in China.

Unlike other businesses that may rely on third-party manufacturers in China, Vortex Spas™ has an onsite quality assurance team that closely monitors every stage of the manufacturing process resulting in better control of quality and design decisions.

"Where a spa is made is far less important than how a spa is made."

Andrew Pullen

Chief Executive Officer

Vortex Spas™ stands out due to its commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and unique designs. Unlike some spa manufacturers that use generic, off-the-shelf parts, Vortex Spas™ designs bespoke components exclusively for their range of spas.

Read our detailed article to learn more about spas made in China and if they are any good.

Spas made in China

What products does Vortex™ sell?

Vortex Spas™ manufactures a range of home lifestyle products, including spa pools, plunge pools, swim spas, infrared saunas, and pergolas.

These products are available for sale in Australia and New Zealand at Spa World™, the exclusive distributor for Vortex™ Spas, swim spas, pergolas and saunas.

View All Vortex™ Products

How much is a Vortex™ Spa Pool in New Zealand?

Vortex Spas™ is a mid-market spa brand that offers a wide range of spa pools. In New Zealand, the prices for these spas range from $7,890 to $29,990.

At the time of writing, Vortex™ Spa Pools prices are:

Model	Dimensions	Price
Gemini™ Spa	2.10 x 1.1 x .74m	Starts at $6,990 (AUD)
Eon™ Spa	2.00 x 2.00 x .82m	Starts at $8,990 (AUD)
Neon™ Spa	2.06 x 1.69 x .82m	Starts at $9,990 (AUD)
Mercury™ Spa	2.00 x 2.00 x .82m	Starts at $10,490 (AUD)
Cobalt™ Spa	2.15 x 2.15 x.92m	Starts at $11,490(AUD)
Xenon™ Spa	2.30 x 2.30 x .92m	Starts at $11,990 (AUD)
Nitro™ Spa	2.30 x 2.30 x .92m	Starts at $12,990 (AUD)
Titanium™ Spa	3.00 x 2.30 x .90m	Starts at $13,490 (AUD)
Spectrum™ Spa	2.30 x 2.30 x .92m	Starts at $13,790 (AUD)
Palladium™ Spa	3.52 x 2.29 x .90m	Starts at $17,990 (AUD)
IKON™ Spa	3.64 x 2.25 x .90 m	Starts at $29, 990 (AUD)

Gemini™ Spa

The compact Gemini™ spa fits two and is great for tight spaces, providing a strong massage with its many jets. It comes with lights and water features for a relaxing spa experience, with special jets for soothing back pain.

Open Bench Seat for Four

Eon™ Spa

The Eon Spa™ is roomy yet affordable, with top-notch systems like those in the Vortex™ range. It comfortably seats 6 adults in its open design, featuring two bucket seats and a bench. It's built for warm, relaxing soaks, enhanced by a back-lit water cascade.

Seats three adults

Neon™ Spa

The Vortex™ Neon™ spa is a small but strong hydromassage pool with many jets, perfect for up to three people. It has advanced features like good filtration, water effects, and lights, making it ideal for small spaces.

Seating for five adults

Mercury™ Spa

Experience the Mercury™ Spa Pool, combining luxury and compact design at great value. This 5-person spa features two loungers and 46 jets for complete body relaxation. Perfect for families, it offers space-efficient luxury and fun, adding a touch of daily indulgence to your home.

Cobolt | Key Feature carousel 1.a

Cobalt™ Spa

The Cobalt™ spa provides ultimate relaxation with 66 jets, two loungers, and unique neck and shoulder therapy features, along with a central volcano jet. Roomy for five adults, it's spacious yet unobtrusive.

Seating for five adults and two toddlers

Xenon™ Spa

The Vortex Nitro™ spa seats six, featuring 71 jets, dual loungers, and neck therapy. It boasts extras like a waterfall, volcano jet, adjustable controls, and a wine cooler, perfect for families or entertaining.

2024 Vortex Nitro spa pool seating for five

Nitro™ Spa

The Vortex Nitro™ spa, featuring 71 jets and twin loungers, is ideal for socializing, offering neck and shoulder massages. It comes with a waterfall, volcano jet, adjustable settings, and a wine cooler, accommodating six including a toddler seat or an extra adult.

Open seating for 10 adults

Titanium™ Spa

The Vortex Titanium™ Spa is an entertainer's dream, offering nine seats, 54 jets, three pumps, multiple seating options including a therapy seat with the Vortex™ neck and shoulder collar, two cool-down seats, and various water features and lighting. It's a luxurious hydrotherapy sanctuary for many guests.

Seating for six adults and two toddlers

Spectrum™ Spa

The Vortex Titanium™ is the ultimate spa for hosting, unmatched in size and features, with nine seats, 54 jets, and three pumps, including a therapy seat with a Vortex™ neck and shoulder collar, bench and back massage seats, cool-down areas, plus various water effects and lights for group hydrotherapy luxury.

Seating for nine adults

Palladium™ Spa

The Vortex Palladium™ stands out with room for ten adults, step-in entry, up to 93 jets, twin loungers, a massage seat, and many water and lighting features. It's perfect for parties or family fun, with kids having ample room to splash. The step-down access is a safe and convenient entry, also serving as extra seating for children. Go grand with the Vortex Palladium™ for unforgettable gatherings.

IKON video thumbnail

IKON™ Spa

IKON™ is the ultimate in sleek, innovative spa design.

Created with precision, IKON™ blends advanced spa tech with modern needs for higher-level relaxation. Experience the allure of IKON™'s modern design, leading-edge amenities, and exceptional comfort. Each soak is transformed into a delightful escape.

How much is a Vortex™ Swim Spa?

The prices for a Vortex™ Swim Spa can range from $21,490 to $34,990. The prices can vary depending on the specific model, features included, and customisation options chosen.

At the time of writing, Vortex™ Swim Spa prices are:

Model	Dimensions	Price
Aqualounge™ Swim Spa	3.98 x 2.31 x 1.20m	Starts at $21,490 (AUD)
Aquagym™ Swim Spa	3.98 x 2.31 x 1.30m	Starts at $21,490 (AUD)
Aquagym Max™ Swim Spa	4.49 x 2.31 x 1.30/1.50m	Starts at $24,990 (AUD)
Aqualap™ Swim Spa	5.90 x 2.30 x 1.30/1.50m	Starts $30,990 (AUD)
Hydrozone™ Swim Spa	5.90 x 2.30 x 1.30/1.50m	Starts $34,990 (AUD)

Aqualounge™ Swim Spa

Aqualounge™ Swim Spa

The Aqualounge™ is a versatile swim spa providing relaxation with a Vortex™ hydromassage, family fun seating four, and fitness options in a plunge pool with optional powerful swim jets for exercise and swimming.

2024 Aquagym Max One Child / Cool-Down Seat

Aquagym™ Swim Spa

The Aquagym™ is Vortex™ Spa's compact swim spa with full features and hydrotherapy for three adults, providing swimming and relaxation without requiring pool-sized space. It's an ideal blend for health and wellness benefits.

2024 Vortex Aquagym Max Ergonomic Lounger with Foot Massage

Aquagym Max™ Swim Spa

The Aquagym Max™ is a larger, more luxurious version of the smaller Aquagym™ swim spa. It gives you extra room for swimming and exercise, plus a comfortable hydrotherapy lounger for relaxation, all in one stylish package.

2024 Aqualap One Child / Cool-Down Seat

Aqualap™ Swim Spa

The Vortex™ Aqualap™ is a roomy swim spa great for intense fitness swimming, fun, and relaxation. It features a Vortex™ hydromassage lounger, neck therapy seat, and a shiatsu back massage seat for stress relief. With four jet settings for various swim resistances, the Aqualap™ is perfect for workout sessions, family play, or soothing unwinding.

Hydrozone™ Swim Spa

Hydrozone™ Swim Spa

The Vortex Hydrozone™ blends a hydrotherapy spa with a large swim space for both relaxation and activity. Enjoy soothing hydrotherapy, exercise, or family time in separate water zones with adjustable jet pressures and temperatures. With specialised jets, a hydrotherapy lounger, neck therapy collar, and easy access, the Hydrozone™ provides a full Vortex™ experience, from entry to exit.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Running costs

The level of insulation in spa pools is the key factor that affects the heating cost. When the insulation is poor, spas lose heat more quickly, causing the heater to run for extended durations and higher power bills.

Let’s look at how Vortex Spas™ are insulated.

Foam insulation on the shell

Vortex Spas™ is equipped with high-density insulation foam around its shell that provides insulation by creating a barrier that helps to retain heat within the spa.

Watch: Spa insulation - Why is it a big deal?

Perimeter insulation

The Vortex™ circuit thermal insulation system has two key benefits that make it superior to traditional foam-on-basin systems. It recirculates lost heat from pumps and equipment while insulating the plumbing, reducing heat loss and lowering operating costs. It provides insulation between the spa pumps for a quieter and more peaceful spa experience.

Base and cabinet insulation

Unlike many spa companies, Vortex Spas™ has insulation inside the cabinet. This means that the warm air created by the running pumps gets trapped between the cabinet's inside and the spa shell's outside. It's like double-glazing the interior of the spa.

The base of the spa is also insulated, and there's a special foam layer up under the lip of the spa that stops any heat from escaping over the top of the frame. This means it locks warm air around the spa and prevents heat loss through the shell and the cabinet.

High-density Insulation cover

Vortex Spas™ has a specially designed lid that fits tightly to enhance insulation. The lid securely locks in place, ensuring heat retention and providing additional safety measures.

These insulation covers are designed to withstand a weight of up to 80 kg, while the UV-resistant vinyl cover helps protect it from harsh UV rays.

Insulation upgrade

Vortex Spas™ offers an insulation upgrade ー, the Arctic Pack. This upgrade increases the perimeter insulation to 50mm, providing a better level of insulation. It is commonly used on Vortex Spas™ that are sold in regions with extreme climates like Scandinavia, Canada and New Zealand.

Dynamic thermal tuning

Every Vortex Spa is equipped with the innovative SpaNet^® SV Series controls. These advanced controls an adjustable thermostat that automatically regulates heating based on your spa's heat retention qualities. This smart feature reduces the frequent turning on and off of the filter pump and heater, leading to considerable energy savings while keeping the water at the desired temperature.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Construction and Quality

Shell Construction

The most crucial element of a spa is its shell. Unlike other spa components, the spa shell cannot be replaced.

There are various materials used for spa shells. The most commonly used materials are vinyl, rotomolded plastic, and acrylic. US-made acrylic sheets are believed to be the best quality for spas.

2024 Nitro Backlit Jets and Topside Controls

US-made acrylic is a durable, easiest to care for, and energy-efficient material that looks great. It holds heat very well when insulated with high-density foam.

Although spas with acrylic shells may cost more upfront, they have lower running costs because they retain heat better.

Vortex Spas™ uses US-made acrylic shells manufactured by Aristech^®, one of the world's largest producers of acrylic sheets.

These shells are reinforced with multiple layers of fibreglass strengthening to ensure they can hold up to 10 tons of water.

Vortex Spas™ uses a 4-layer, 8-step Thermobond™ lamination process. This process involves curing the spa shell in a controlled oven, ensuring its long-lasting durability for the lifetime of ownership.

Leading brands such as HotSpring^® and Jacuzzi^® use acrylic shells in their spa designs.

Framing

The spa structure is the underlying framework that provides support for the shell. The stronger the frame, the longer the spa is likely to last.

Timber-free Permaframe™ construction (Avanté)

Vortex™ spa pools are made with a tough Permaframe™, and their swim spas have hot dipped galvanised steel frames. Both come with a lifetime warranty.

Regarding spa framing, the best options available are heavy-duty treated wood, hard-wearing plastic, injection-moulded plastic or a galvanised steel frame.

We believe that injection-moulded plastic is superior due to its exceptional qualities. This material is specifically designed to have an indefinite lifespan. It is immune to rot, mildew, and vermin damage and is highly resistant to cracking.

Base pan

The base is another significant aspect to consider when constructing a spa.

The base must be well-built to support the weight of the spa, water, and users.

A well-designed base pan also prevents water from entering the spa during rough weather conditions, protecting the pumps and equipment from potential damage.

ThermoLock™ Toughened ABS Base

Vortex™ Spas uses Thermolock™ Toughened ABS base, reinforced with fibreglass— the same durable material used in car bumpers. This base is built to be strong and keep the spa safe.

Importantly, the base has a raised border that is 75mm high, which is meant to keep water out. This helps to keep the inside parts of the spa dry and safe, even when it rains heavily.

The Thermolock™ Toughened ABS also functions as an insulation that works with the Thermolock™ Perimeter insulation to ensure the cold is kept out, resulting in reduced running costs.

Pumps and Heater

Spa pumps circulate the water through your plumbing system for filtration, heating and sanitisation. The pump also provides water flow to run the jets in your spa.

Vortex™ Spas uses SpaNet^® jet pumps, programmable circulation pumps, and heaters.

SpaNet^® is one of the most reliable spa equipment manufacturers and is used in many popular spa brands in Australia and New Zealand, including Sapphire^®, Monarch^®, Fisher Spas™ and many others.

Control system

Vortex Spas™ uses SpaNet^® controllers. Depending on the spa model, the controller can be SV Mini 1™, SV Mini 2™, SV 1, SV2, SV3, and SV4.

Covers

The Vortex Spas™ comes with a custom-fitted locking cover. These spa covers are designed to withstand a weight of 80 kg and are made from ultra UV-resistant vinyl and high-density foam. With proper care and maintenance, it guarantees years of outstanding performance.

Automated swim spa cover

ClearLift™ is an innovative motorised system exclusively designed for swim spas.

ClearLift™ Automatic Spa Cover | FAQs

It effortlessly lifts heavy covers on and off the spa. Unlike other cover lifters, ClearLift™ is fully retractable, folding the cover to the side without obstructing the view. Controlled by a key and connected to the spa's control system, it provides a seamless experience.

Please note: ClearLift™ is currently compatible with select Vortex Swim Spas™ manufactured after November 2023.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Appearance and Design

Vortex Spas™ markets itself as a “design-led” company focusing on “superior comfort and style”.

Vortex Spas Design

The design of Vortex Spas™ prioritises user comfort, with a focus on enhancing overall relaxation, including comfortable seating for multiple body heights and sizes.

Vortex Spas™ include Hydroglow™ LED lights. These lights come in various colours, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Automatic water maintenance

Automated sanitising systems can make owning a spa much easier and more enjoyable. These systems do most of the water care and sterilisation for you, so you can sit back and relax.

All Vortex Spas™ are equipped with Purezone™ Automatic Ozone water clarifier. This automatic water clarifier uses ozone technology to oxidise and remove micro-organisms, producing the clearest water available.

Vortex Spas™ provides an additional sterilisation system to enhance water maintenance – the Purezone™ UV sterilisation system.

The Purezone™ UV sterilisation system in Vortex Spas™ uses UV-C technology, which is commonly used to purify drinking water and public swimming pools globally.

As mentioned above, Vortex Spas™ pioneered UV sterilisation in spas and swim spas.

The Purezone™ UV sterilisation system eliminates 99.9% of viruses and bacteria in the water, including tough ones like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. This ensures safe and pure water for spa users.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Jets and hydrotherapy

Jets are what make a spa, so it's crucial to have suitable ones.

Although more jets may seem visually appealing, it’s important to understand that more isn't always better when it comes to jets. What’s essential is the jet design and placement.

Jacuzzi^®, Hot Spring^®, and Bullfrog^® are renowned brands that provide excellent hydrotherapy experiences, even with fewer jets.

Vortex Spas Jets

Vortex Spas™ use high-grade stainless steel faces that are guaranteed not to rust. These bearingless jets are designed to spin for extended periods without any problems.

From what we can tell, Vortex Spas™ offer greater hydrotherapy than most spa brands at a similar price point. Vortex Spas™ is popular for its superior massage experience.

Having a variety of jets with different strengths and massage styles is essential to meet your therapy needs on a day-to-day basis.

Here are some of the hydrotherapy seats you’ll find in Vortex Spas™.

Ergonomic lounger with foot massage
Shiatsu Massage Seat
Neck and Shoulder Therapy Seat
High-Pressure Volcano Jet

To learn more about the different hydrotherapy jets you can find in Vortex Spas, please click the button below.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Control Systems

Besides the physical components of a spa, the control system is another important feature you need to consider.

Most reputable spa brands use control systems manufactured by Balboa^®, Gecko^® and SpaNet^®.

Spanet Control System

Vortex Spas™ uses SpaNet^® for its control system and other spa components. SpaNet^® is one of the most reliable control systems for spas in Australia and New Zealand. Because SpaNet^® is used by most spa brands, finding replacement parts or a compatible unit in case of damage shouldn’t be a problem.

SpaNet^® also supports wireless technology to connect devices and remotely control spa settings.

With the SmartLink™ WiFi module and SpaLink App™, you can use an Apple^® or Android™ smartphone or tablet as a wireless remote control for your SpaNet^® SV controller equipped Vortex Spa™.

SpaNet^® controllers can also be connected to Amazon Alexa™ and Google^® Assistant and use voice commands. It’s like having a personal attendant!

Vortex Spas™ Review – Safety Features

Vortex™ Spas is committed to ensuring safety in all its spa designs. Vortex™ Spas come with important safety features that other brands overlook, like the bypass suction cap.

This safety feature is important for preventing hair from getting caught in the spa's bottom suction, a danger that's especially serious for kids.

Every Vortex™ spa comes with this protective feature to either meet or exceed the strict safety standards set in Australia and New Zealand.

Vortex™ Spas also features an intuitive health indicator light that shows the spa's status without the need to remove the cover. When blue, the light signifies the water is perfectly tempered for use.

If it turns red, it alerts you to significant water temperature shifts exceeding 5°C or signals the presence of a malfunction, ensuring you are always informed about your spa's condition for optimal safety and enjoyment.

Pros and cons of Vortex Spas™

After gaining knowledge about Vortex Spas™, let's briefly review its pros and cons.

Pros of Vortex Spas™

High quality
Very highly featured

Cons of Vortex Spas™

Higher running costs than some premium brands

What’s the Hydroplus™ Upgrade?

The Hydroplus™ is an optional upgrade for those wanting a better hydrotherapy experience. The upgrade includes additional and upgraded Hydroflow™ jets and an extra SmartFlow™ jet pump engineered to create a powerful and focused water stream, allowing for a more targeted and effective massage.

Look at the image below to see the difference between the standard model and the Hydroplus™ model.

Hydroplus Jets

Image caption: This image features the Vortex Nitro™ Spa

Note: The blue jets in the Hydroplus™ model are upgraded, and the orange jets are additional.

Not all Vortex Spa™ ranges offer the Hydroplus™ upgrade. Make sure to ask the salesperson if the model you’re interested in offers the Hydroplus™ upgrade.

Watch: Vortex Nitro™ Customer Review

Are Vortex Spas™ worth it?

Vortex Spas™ can be a perfect fit for an affordable, thoughtfully designed spa with many features.

To help with your decision-making, ask yourself these questions:

First, who will use the spa, and how will you plan to use it? How many people will be using the spa at once, and what will be its primary purpose - hydrotherapy, entertainment, or personal relaxation?

When it comes to seating capacity, Vortex Spas™ come in a range of sizes from small 1 to 2-person models to large entertainers spas that can fit up to 10 people or more.

Vortex Spas™, in our own opinion, offers great hydrotherapy, especially with the Avante™ Upgrade. But if you’re after absolute hydrotherapy experience, premium brands like Jacuzzi^®, Hotspring^®, and Bullfrog^® might be worth the investment.

Secondly, what’s your budget? As mentioned above, Vortex Spas™ price ranges from $6,990 to $17,990.

Are you willing to spend more for a premium brand, or do you want to keep it low and settle for an entry-level spa?

If budget allows, we recommend considering premium brands such as Jacuzzi^®, Hotspring^®, and Bullfrog^®.

When working with a limited budget, consider choosing well-built spas without the extra features you might not need from trusted budget-friendly brands like Fisher™ and Sun & Soul™.

Remember to consider the running costs, which can significantly impact your long-term savings. You might save money upfront but spend more on operating expenses over time.

Lastly, what features are you looking for? With the advancements in spa technology, there are many options available. However, investing in some of these technologies may only be necessary. For instance, built-in televisions in spas, like those found in Master Spas^®, can be a deal breaker for some spa buyers.

But, if your goal is to use the spa to reconnect and build more prosperous relationships, somewhere to engage with and focus on each other, this feature may be optional.

These questions are just the beginning to help narrow down your choices. We recommend consulting a spa expert to assess and help you find the perfect spa.

Watch: Vortex Mercury™ Customer Review

Buying a spa is a personal experience; you’ll never honestly know what feels best until you try it.

Most Spa World™ stores have dark rooms away from the main area where you can ‘wet test’ the spa you're interested in.

Book a wet test

In summary

We hope this article helped you get one step closer to finding your dream spa. If you have any questions or need further information, we’re here to help!

We also encourage you to download our Spa Buyer's Guide below.

Spa Buyers Guide

Disclaimer: In this article, we’ve used brand names not affiliated with Spa World™, Sun & Soul™ or Vortex Leisure Pty Ltd, the parent company of Spa World™ All information, including pricing and product details, was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.

*The following registered trademarks are owned by companies not affiliated in any way with Spa World™ or Vortex Leisure Pty Ltd: *

*Bullfrog Spas^® trademark is owned by Bullfrog International. HotSpring^® Spas trademark is owned by Watkins Manufacturing Corporation (Watkins). Balboa trademark is owned by Balboa Water Group. Gecko^® trademark is owned by Gecko Alliance Group. Amazon Alexa™ trademark is owned by Amazon Technologies, Inc. SpaNet™ trademark is owned by Alder IP Pty Ltd. Google Assistant™ trademark is owned by Google LLC. Sapphire Spas^® trademark is owned by T&G Enterprises (VIC) Pty Limited. Monarch^® *

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