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Business Details
49 Years
experience
Your Trusted PADI Dive Center in Morton, IL
Aqua Diving School has been a trusted name in scuba diving instruction since 1977. As a PADI Five Star Training Center, we provide comprehensive scuba education at all levels, from beginner certifications to professional divemaster training. Our services extend beyond the classroom, offering guided dive trips to local and exotic destinations, including partnerships with the Aggressor Fleet for Pacific expeditions. We maintain one of the largest inventories of diving equipment in Central Illinois, featuring high-quality gear for sale and rental, supported by on-site repairs from certified technicians.

Located in Morton, Illinois, our facility is easily accessible from Peoria, Bloomington, and Springfield, with flexible scheduling to accommodate students from distant locations. Our team of experienced instructors, including owner John VanDerVoorn, combines technical expertise with personalized instruction, ensuring a safe and engaging learning environment. Customer testimonials highlight our commitment to excellence, with feedback praising our patient teaching methods, equipment quality, and the unforgettable experiences we create through our diving adventures.
Services
Scuba Diving Instruction Equipment Rentals Dive Trips Equipment Repairs Air Fills
Details
  • Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
  • We have over 45 years of experience in scuba diving instruction.
  • Our team includes certified instructors with extensive expertise.
  • We offer high-quality equipment rentals and repairs on-site.
  • Flexible class schedules available for distant students.
  • We provide guided dive trips to both local and exotic destinations.
Associations and certifications
  • PADI Five Star Training Center
What people say
Passionate and wonderful teachers Fantastic instructor Staff is friendly and helpful Unforgettable diving experiences Patient and capable leadership
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Services
Scuba Diving Instruction
We offer PADI-certified scuba diving courses for all skill levels, from beginner certifications to professional divemaster training. Our programs emphasize safety, technical proficiency, and environmental stewardship. Students receive personalized instruction in indoor pools and real-world diving environments.
Equipment Rentals
High-quality diving gear rentals include BCDs, regulators, wetsuits, and dive computers. Our inventory features top brands to ensure reliability and comfort. All equipment undergoes regular maintenance by certified technicians for optimal performance.
Dive Trips
We organize local and international dive trips to premier destinations like Roatan, Socorro, and Mermet Springs. Trips cater to individuals, couples, and families, with options for both certified divers and beginners. Partnerships with the Aggressor Fleet enhance our global offerings.
Equipment Repairs
On-site repairs for all diving equipment performed by licensed technicians. Services include regulator servicing, BCD repairs, and computer diagnostics. We use genuine parts to maintain manufacturer warranties and ensure equipment longevity.
Air Fills
High-pressure air fills for DIN and Yoke tanks up to 3600 PSI. Our compressors meet industry standards for purity and safety. Available for both customers and walk-in divers needing quick refills for local dives.
People
John VanDerVoorn
Owner
John founded Aqua Diving School in 1977 and has trained thousands of divers. A former chemistry teacher, he brings analytical rigor to diving instruction, emphasizing safety and technical understanding. His leadership fosters a community-focused approach to underwater exploration.
Jeff
Instructor
Jeff is a certified PADI instructor known for his patient, personalized teaching style. He specializes in certification courses and has led numerous trips to Mermet Springs. Students praise his ability to create a supportive learning environment.
Questions
What scuba certification levels do you offer?
We offer PADI certifications from beginner (Open Water Diver) to professional (Divemaster) levels, including specialty courses like Rescue Diver and Dry Suit Diving.
Can I rent diving equipment without certification?
Yes, we rent gear to all customers. Our staff helps select appropriate equipment, and rentals include basic usage instructions for safety.
Are dive trips available for non-divers?
Yes, non-divers are welcome on our trips. We provide snorkeling options and surface support for companions joining diving expeditions.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, cash, and checks for equipment purchases, rentals, and trip deposits.
Do you offer equipment repair warranties?
Repairs include a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. Regular maintenance extends equipment lifespan and ensures diving safety.
How far in advance should I book a dive trip?
Book at least 6 months ahead for international trips. Local expeditions require 2-3 months' notice to secure preferred dates.
Reviews (5)
Nick Fleshman
Aug 07, 2021 Report
Very helpful for a new diver! They took their time to make sure I had what I needed to work well for what I was doing!
Dana Pace
Jun 27, 2021 Report
After getting open water certified in Key Largo in 2015, I wanted to find a local dive shop to get involved with. After asking around and visiting, I decided on John and Aqua Diving School. He and his team are exactly what I was looking for. He knows the local/regional dive sites really well, but he can guide you around Roatan or Raja Ampat just as easily. Ive been able to train and certify at a rhythm that suits me perfectly, and John is always willing to answer a question and quick to respond to my emails. If youre a diver in central Illinois, this is where you want to be.
Manjusha D.
Sep 12, 2019 Report
Very overpriced. The diving instructor was very condescending and not helpful at all. Service was poor and poor quality diving equipment. Do not buy the diving certification from here or any of the store items it's a complete waste of money. So upset I lost 500$ for the verification!
Glenna Yarnot
Dec 16, 2016 Report
I have enjoy all my trainings and dives, John is simply the best. His staff is friendly and helping! If you want to find somebody to help you feel comfortable and help you find the equipment that fits your needs and wants, call John!
Frieda Herron
Jun 23, 2016 Report
I have been diving around the world with John and his dive shop following. You could not ask for a nicer group of people to dive with. The dive packages John puts together always insures you get special treatment, safety in numbers and great people to dive with that all look out for one another. We always have a great experience no matter where we go.