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Which Vortex™ Swim Spa is Best 2024? (Features, pros, cons and more)

Vortex™ Swim Spas are popular choices among Australians seeking high-quality relaxation and fitness. This article compares different Vortex™ swim spas to help you decide if this brand is right for you.

Which Vortex™ Swim Spa is Best

Swim spas have gained popularity for various reasons 一 they’re great for fun, fitness, and relaxation. They’re also portable, versatile and, unlike most pools, they’re heated and ready to use year-round.

If you've been considering swim spas, you might have come across the Vortex™ Spas brand and are wondering if it’s any good and which of their products is best for you.

Keep reading to learn more about this popular Australian swim spa brand and its range of products.

In this article, you'll learn:

Disclaimer: Spa World is the exclusive distributor of Vortex™ Swim Spas in Australia. All information, including store locations and product details, was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.

What is a swim spa?

Swim spas are a combination of a swimming pool and a therapeutic spa. They’re similar to spa pools but are much larger and deeper – generally 4m–8m in length and 1.3m-1.5m in depth.

Aqua fitness in a swim spa

Swim spas can have powerful swim jets that create a strong current or stream of moving water you can swim against. You could say they’re like a treadmill for swimming – you ‘swim in place’, without moving forward or doing laps.

Some swim spas do not have jets but instead use a tether system to swim against.

Click the button below to learn more about swim spas, including pros, cons and considerations.

What is a swim spa?

Who is Vortex Spas™?

Vortex Spas™ is an international company that manufactures and distributes home lifestyle products, including spa pools, swim spas, and saunas. Its products are designed in Australia and New Zealand and sold in over 20 countries worldwide.

What are the differences between the old and new 2024 Vortex Spa™ model?

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. It is recognised for its innovative technologies, including pioneering UV sterilisation in spas and swim spas.

They’re possibly best known in the industry for the Vortex™ IKON™ spa, which won several prestigious design awards, including the Good Design™ Australia award.

In 2023, Vortex Spas™ launched its ClearLift™ automatic swim spa cover, a patent-pending motorised system in Australia. As the first of its kind for swim spas, ClearLift™ effortlessly lifts and folds heavy covers, tucking them neatly to one side of the spa.

Learn more about Vortex Spas™.

Why choose ClearLift™ for your swim spa?

Who owns Vortex Spas™?

Vortex Spas™ is owned by Jacuzzi® Group.

Jacuzzi® Spas has been manufacturing hot tubs since the 1960s and is the inventor of spa pools.

Jacuzzi® Spas (or Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs as they are known in the US) is owned by Investindustrial™, an Italian private equity firm whose other brands have included Ducati® and Aston Martin® – giving them some pretty impressive design credentials.

What swim spa models does Vortex Spas™ offer?

Vortex Spas™ manufactures a range of swim spas and plunge pools in different sizes, depths and configurations.

Their models include the Aqualounge™, Aquagym™, Aquagym Max™, Aqualap™ and Hydrozone™ dual-zone swim spa.

See the table below for the different dimensions and prices for each model:

Model

Dimensions

Price

Aqualounge™ Swim Spa3.98 x 2.31 x 1.20mStart at $21,490(AUD)
Aquagym™ Swim Spa3.98 x 2.31 x 1.30mStart at $21,490(AUD)
Aquagym Max™ Swim Spa4.49 x 2.31 x 1.30/1.50mStart at $24,490(AUD)
Aqualap™ Swim Spa5.90 x 2.30 x 1.30/1.50mStart at $30,490(AUD)
Hydrozone™ Swim Spa5.90 x 2.30 x 1.30/1.50mStart at $34,990(AUD)

Prices are accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.

Click the button below to learn more about these products.

Vortex™ Swim Spas

What is the best Vortex™ swim spa?

As mentioned above, there are important factors to consider when choosing a swim spa.

In this section, we review the different Vortex™ swim spas to help you decide which one is best for you.

Vortex Aqualounge™ Swim Spa Review

The Vortex Aqualounge™ is a single zone 3.98 x 2.31 x 1.20m family swim spa with four hydrotherapy seats, including a lounger that combines an upper and lower back massage with a foot massage.

It has a spacious plunge pool where the kids will love to play and also offers ample room for you to keep fit with standing aqua fitness.

The Aqualounge™ comes in four variations; all models have exactly the same seating layout and features with a different number of swim jets to suit your fitness needs.

Aqualounge™ Swim Spa

Best Features

  • Purezone™ Automatic Water Care System for safe, clean and clear water.
  • Tranquil Water Feature for a soothing, relaxing ambience.
  • Spa Health Indicator Light allows you to monitor your spa's condition without lifting the cover.

Price

Starts at $21,490 AUD

Pros

  • Versatility. It has a cool-down/child seat, which is great for families with small children and can also be a great model for vertical aquatic fitness, such as jogging and walking.
  • Good hydrotherapy level. Has up to 81 jets for a great hydrotherapy experience.
  • Seat options. It comes with an ergonomic lounger with foot massage, neck and shoulder therapy set, a full back massage-focused seat, and a child/cool-down seat.
  • Size. Best for spaces with limited space.

Cons

  • There is no entry step for safe step-in and out of the spa.

It may not be the best option for advanced swimmers among the Vortex™ swim spa ranges.

Click the button below to learn more about this product.

View Vortex Aqualounge™

Vortex Aquagym™ Swim Spa Review

If you’re looking for the same size as the Aqualounge™ but deeper for more swimming techniques, the Aquagym™ might be a better choice.

The Vortex Aquagym™ is the most compact 1.3m deep swim spa model among the Vortex™ swim spa range.

It also has four hydrotherapy seats and four swim jet and pump options.

Aquagym | Key Feature carousel 1.b

Best Features

  • Purezone™ Automatic Water Care System for safe, clean and clear water.
  • Tranquil Water Feature for a soothing, relaxing ambience.
  • Spa Health Indicator Light allows you to monitor your spa's condition without lifting the cover.

Price

Starts at $21,490 AUD

Pros

  • Versatile. It includes a cool-down/child seat for young children to sit safely and comfortably, perfect for small families.
  • Effective hydrotherapy. Equipped with up to 81 jets for a great hydrotherapy experience.
  • Variety of seats. Comes with an ergonomic lounger, foot massage, neck and shoulder therapy seat, full back massage seat, and a child/cool down seat.
  • Great value. Deeper than the Aqualounge Max™ but priced the same.

Cons

  • This model may not be the best choice for advanced swimmers, as it doesn’t have a 1.5 deep option.
  • There is no entry step for safe step-in and out of the spa.

Click the button below to learn more about this product.

View Vortex Aquagym™ Swim Spa

Vortex Aquagym Max™ Swim Spa Review

The Aquagym Max™ is the ultimate 4.49 x 2.31m mid-sized, single-zone swim spa that can seat four adults. It features the famous Vortex™ hydrotherapy ergonomic lounger with foot massage.

The Aquagym Max™ also comes in four variations. All models have exactly the same seating layout and features, but they have a different number of swim jets to suit your fitness needs.

Compared with Aqualounge™, this model has a larger swim area and comes in a 1.3m and 1.5m deep option, making it ideal for swimmers who want to explore more complex swimming styles.

2024 Vortex Aquagym Max Ergonomic Lounger with Foot Massage

Best Features

  • Purezone AOS™ water care system delivers superior water clarity automatically with reduced sanitiser usage.
  • Tranquil Water Feature for a soothing, relaxing ambience.
  • Spa Health Indicator Light allows you to monitor your spa's condition without lifting the cover.

Price

Starts at $21,490 AUD

Pros

  • Clearlift™ compatible. Effortlessly lift heavy swim spa covers with a simple key turn.
  • Versatility. It features a cool-down/child seat for young children to safely and comfortably sit in, making it ideal for small families.
  • Good hydrotherapy level. Has up to 81 jets for an excellent hydrotherapy experience.
  • Seat options. It comes with an ergonomic lounger with foot massage, neck and shoulder therapy set, a full back massage-focused seat, and a child/cool-down seat.
  • Ideal for all swimmers. This is a great model for both starters and advanced swimmers.
  • Value for money. This model is larger than the Aqualounge™ but costs the same.

Cons

  • There is no entry step for safe step-in and out of the spa.

Click the button below to learn more about this product.

View Vortex Aquagym Max™

Vortex Aqualap™ Swim Spa Review

The Vortex™ Aqualap™ is a 5.90 x 2.30m swim spa suitable for high-intensity swimming, fitness activities, and family fun.

This model includes a Vortex™ hydromassage lounger, a neck and therapy seat, and a shiatsu back massage seat to help alleviate tension. The Aqualap™ offers four jet settings to adjust swim resistance, accommodating easy and intense workouts.

It also offers 1.3m and 1.5m depth options, perfect for swimmers exploring more advanced swimming styles.

2024 Vortex Aqulap Seats Four Adults

Best Features

  • Purezone AOS™ water care system delivers superior water clarity automatically with reduced sanitiser usage.
  • Tranquil Water Feature for a soothing, relaxing ambience.
  • Spa Health Indicator Light allows you to monitor your spa's condition without lifting the cover.
  • SpaNet™ SmartTouch™ Premium Controller, a 4.3-inch touchscreen control panel that's intuitive like a smartphone and easy to use even with wet fingers.

Price

Starts at $30,990 AUD

Pros

  • Clearlift™ compatible. Effortlessly lift heavy swim spa covers with a simple key turn.
  • Versatility. Includes a cool down/child seat for young children, making it great for small families.
  • Hydrotherapy. Offers up to 81 jets for excellent hydrotherapy.
  • Seat Options. Features an ergonomic lounger with foot massage, neck and shoulder therapy, a full back massage seat, and a child/cool down seat.
  • Ideal for all swimmers. Suitable for both beginner and advanced swimmers.

Cons

  • There is no entry step for safe step-in and out of the spa.

Click the button below to learn more about this product.

View Vortex Aqualap™

Vortex Hydrozone™ Swim Spa Review

The Vortex Hydrozone™ is a 5.90 x 2.30m dual-zone swim spa with five hydrotherapy seats, including the famous Vortex™ lounger and neck therapy collar. It also has a spacious swim area, easy step-down access for a safe entry and exit, and a 1.3m and 1.5m deep option.

The Hydrozone™ comes in four models, all with the same seating and features but varying numbers of swim jets to match your exercise needs, similar to the Aquagym Max™ and Aqualounge™.

If you’re looking for a model that offers the best of both worlds, the Vortex Hydrozone™ swim spa could be perfect for you. Combining two completely separate zones to create a multifunctional swim spa, this model is great for entertainment, relaxation, and fitness.

An internal wall separates the two zones, enabling you to customise jet pressure, water temperature, and other functions for each area.

2024 Hydrozone Hydrotherapy Seating For Five

Best Features

  • Purezone AOS™ water care system delivers superior water clarity automatically with reduced sanitiser usage.
  • Tranquil Water Feature for a soothing, relaxing ambience.
  • Spa Health Indicator Light allows you to monitor your spa's condition without lifting the cover.
  • Built-in beverage chiller to level up your entertainment experience.
  • SpaNet™ SmartTouch™ Premium Controller, a 4.3-inch touchscreen control panel that's intuitive like a smartphone and easy to use even with wet fingers.

Price

Starts at $33,990 (AUD)

Pros

  • Clearlift™ compatible. Effortlessly lift heavy swim spa covers with a simple key turn.
  • Highly Versatile. Great for relaxation, vertical and horizontal aquatic workouts, and fun time with the family.
  • Seat options. Features an ergonomic lounger with foot massage, neck and shoulder therapy set, two back massage-focused seats, and a child/cool down seat.
  • Ideal for all swimmers. Best model for both starters and advanced swimmers.
  • Value for money. This model is a spa pool and swim spa at the price of one.

Cons

  • It may not be the best model for spaces with limited space.
  • Large swim spas may require added maintenance, and since they hold more water than smaller ones, the running costs may also be higher.

Click the button below to read our in-depth review of the Vortex Hydrozone™.

Vortex Hydrozone™ Review
View Vortex Hydrozone™

What Vortex Swim Spa™ should I buy?

Vortex™ Swim Spas are well made, with quality features and materials. They also come with competitive warranties for peace of mind. No matter which models you choose, we think they are some of the best value-for-money swim spas today and compare well against much more expensive premium options.

That said, when deciding between the different Vortex™ Swim Spas and Plunge Pools, it’s important to consider what you want to use them for and who will use them.

Here’s a breakdown of some top choices based on different needs:

Best Vortex™ Family Swim Spa

Our Pick: Vortex™ Hydrozone™

If you are looking for a pool spa combo, the dual-zone Hydrozone™ combines both features. It includes separate areas for swimming and relaxation, allowing family members to enjoy different activities simultaneously. Adjustable water temperatures in each zone make it versatile for year-round use.

Best Vortex™ Aquafitness Swim Spa

Our Pick: Vortex™ Aqualap™

For those focused on swimming or aquafitness, the Aqualap™ offers a spacious pool area with powerful swim jets. This model mimics traditional swimming conditions without the laps, providing adjustable water resistance for various training needs. It’s suitable for building stamina and strength through rigorous aquafitness routines.

Best Vortex™ Swim Spa for Limited Space

Our Pick: Vortex™ Aquagym™

If space is a constraint and your primary goal is to enhance swimming techniques or engage in water exercises, the Aquagym™ is a compact yet efficient option. Despite its smaller size, it features strong swim jets and is designed to maximise your workout potential. It fits well in urban settings or homes with limited backyard space.

Best Vortex™ Swim Spa for Enhanced Fitness

Our Pick: Vortex™ Aquagym Max™

For those looking for an enhanced fitness experience, the Aquagym Max™ offers an upgraded version of the Aquagym™. It includes more powerful swim jets and a larger swimming area, providing more space and resistance for a comprehensive workout. It's ideal for those who want to take their swimming and aquatic exercises to the next level.

Best Vortex™ Swim Spa for Relaxation

Our Pick: Vortex™ Aqualounge™

If relaxation is your primary goal, the Aqualounge™ is designed to offer a luxurious lounging experience. With ergonomic seating and multiple massage jets, it focuses on providing maximum comfort and stress relief. It's a great option for unwinding after a long day or entertaining guests in a soothing environment.

At Spa World, we always say the best way to know if a swim spa or plunge pool is right for you is to try it out before you buy.

Contact your local Spa World showroom and book a ‘wet test’ to experience different models firsthand and form your own opinion.

Find a showroom

Where are Vortex Swim Spas™ made?

Vortex Swim Spas™ are made in China. In this detailed article, Vortex Leisure Managing Director Andrew Pullen discusses spas manufactured in China and what to know about them.

“What I have come to realise is that where a spa is made is far less important than how it is made, what materials are used in its construction, and the quality of the manufacturer’s quality control systems,” he says.

“For example, there have been some great spas made in Australia and some awful spas made in Australia. Likewise, some of the best spas in the world are made in China (including Vortex Spas), and some of the worst spas are made in China.”

Click the button below to read the full article.

Vortex Spas Made in China

Where to buy Vortex™ Swim Spas?

In Australia, Vortex™ Swim Spas are exclusively available at Spa World.

Spa World is the largest spa retailer in the Southern Hemisphere, with showrooms throughout Australia and New Zealand. It is the exclusive distributor of Vortex™ Spas, Swim Spas and Saunas.

The company also distributes Jacuzzi® Spas (the inventors of the modern spa) Fisher Spas™, among other home leisure and lifestyle brands.

Shop Vortex™ Swim Spas

In Summary

Vortex Spas™ could be a great option if you’re looking for a mid-market swim spa for swimming, fitness, relation and fun.

A key advantage of Vortex™ Swim Spas is their exclusive availability through Spa World, a reputable retailer with over 38 years of experience. This partnership ensures you can confidently purchase, benefiting from Spa World’s industry-leading warranties, 7-day customer care service, expert salespeople and more.

Learn more about Spa World.

Each Vortex™ swim spa has different features and specifications. The only way to find out is to try one for yourself.

Yes, that means getting wet! Most Spa World stores have dark rooms away from the main area where you can ‘wet test’ the spa you're interested in.

Find a showroom

Spa World’s product pages provide information on all of our spas, swim spas, and prices.

You can also download our Ultimate Spa Buyers Guide below.

Spa Buyers Guide

We’re always here to help! If you have further questions, contact us online or visit our nearest showroom.

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