Diving atVoodoo Jets (United States)
Currently, the Voodoo Jets site features two decommissioned F-101 fighter jets, deliberately sunk as artificial reefs off Panama City Beach, Florida. Deployed in July 2014, these aircraft now form part of the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail. This project transformed former static displays into accessible underwater structures, enhancing the local diving and fishing scene, making a notable addition to the Gulf of Mexico's artificial reef system.
As evening covers Voodoo Jets, the local air temperature is measured at 24.1°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.66m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
30.1432, -85.8636
Dive Site Overview
Originally destined for the scrapyard, two F-101 Voodoo fighter jets found a new purpose as artificial reefs in the Gulf of Mexico. Decommissioned after serving the U.S. Air Force from 1954 to 1982, these 21 m (68 ft) long supersonic aircraft had been on land display in Panama City, Florida, for many years.
Construction projects necessitated their removal, prompting a collaborative effort to repurpose them rather than scrap them. Former Bay County Commissioners, Rick Seltzer and Carleton “Sonny” Vail, had even piloted these specific Voodoos, connecting the site to local history.
A local tourism agency, the Bay County Tourist Development Council, provided $30,000, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) contributed $60,000 for the undertaking, covering the jets' preparation and the deployment of additional concrete reef modules. Volunteers from Tyndall Dive Club and Aircraft Maintenance Instructors contributed over 600 hours to meticulously clean and secure the aircraft, ensuring all components or materials that might pose environmental threats were removed.
Sunk in June and July 2014, the jets now rest about three nautical miles south of the M.B. Miller County Pier, becoming a planned addition to the region's artificial reef program.
This initiative transformed military relics into a sustainable dive attraction, enhancing marine habitats for divers and fishermen alike.
Best Time to Dive
Optimizing a dive to the Voodoo Jets primarily involves considering prevailing weather patterns, which are favorable for most of the year. Diving conditions are rated 'Good' from February through November, becoming 'Moderate' in January. Air temperatures generally range from 11°C (52°F) in January to 28.8°C (84°F) in August. Driest months, April and October, see average rainfall around 2.7 mm (0.11 inches) and 1.3 mm (0.05 inches) respectively, potentially offering clearer surface conditions. Conversely, September often records the highest rainfall at 7.3 mm (0.29 inches). Wind speeds also tend to be lower during summer months, typically ranging from 17 to 21 km/h (10-13 mph) from July to September, which can translate to calmer seas and easier boat travel to the site. Planning a trip between late spring and early fall provides generally warmer air temperatures and often reduced wave heights, which are favorable for offshore dives.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Navigating the Voodoo Jets offers a relatively straightforward dive experience, specifically designed for accessibility across a broad range of diver skill levels. Two F-101 fighter jets are deliberately placed at a maximum depth of approximately 23 m (76 ft). Their shallow placement ensures that both recreational divers and visitors can comfortably explore these unique artificial reefs. Visibility can fluctuate, but generally allows for clear views of the aircraft structures. Water temperatures are not consistently reported but generally align with regional Gulf of Mexico norms, suggesting warmer conditions in summer and cooler periods in winter. Currents are typically mild, though conditions can vary depending on local weather systems, particularly during stronger wind periods. These aircraft are secured with concrete anchors, intended to maintain their position even during significant weather events, providing a stable environment for marine growth and exploration. Structures offer numerous points of interest for photography and close inspection, creating an engaging underwater landscape.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the Voodoo Jets site requires standard open water certification due to its accessible depth range. While the jets were thoroughly cleaned before deployment, divers should maintain situational awareness and avoid penetration into any confined spaces within the aircraft, as snag hazards could still exist. Being three miles offshore, divers should plan for boat access and be comfortable with boat diving procedures. It's advisable to carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) for visibility to boat traffic, especially given its popularity as both a dive and fishing site. Monitoring weather forecasts for sea state and wind conditions is crucial, as offshore sites can be affected by stronger currents and waves. Always dive within your training limits and consider the experience level of your buddy.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Individual comfort in the water can vary significantly from diver to diver, even under the same conditions.
For most recreational dives, 3-5mm wetsuit should provide comfortable protection. Forecast conditions over the next few days suggest temperatures will remain relatively stable.
Divers heading to Voodoo Jets today should expect water temperatures around 23°C (73°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 24°C (75°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at Voodoo Jets
Voodoo Jets have quickly evolved into thriving artificial reefs, attracting a variety of marine inhabitants. Observations have included numerous amberjack and snapper populating the structures. These submerged aircraft provide essential habitat, drawing in different fish species and invertebrate communities, contributing to the Gulf's biodiversity. A site serves as a vital aggregation point for schooling fish and can host smaller macro life within its crevices and on its surfaces, offering opportunities for close-up viewing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the depth of the Voodoo Jets dive site?
Voodoo Jets were deliberately placed at a depth of approximately 23 m (76 ft). This relatively shallow depth makes the site accessible to most certified recreational divers.
Where is the Voodoo Jets dive site located?
Lying about three nautical miles off the coast of Panama City Beach, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico, the dive site is south of the M.B. Miller County Pier.
What kind of structures are at the Voodoo Jets site?
Two decommissioned F-101 Voodoo fighter jets feature at the site, sunk as part of an artificial reef program. Additional concrete reef modules were also deployed nearby to further enhance the habitat.
When were the Voodoo Jets sunk?
Two F-101 Voodoo fighter jets were deployed and sunk in June and July of 2014. They quickly became part of the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail.
Is the Voodoo Jets site suitable for beginner divers?
Considered an easy dive, the site is suitable for divers with standard open water certification. Its shallow maximum depth and generally mild conditions make it approachable for various skill levels.
What kind of marine life can be seen there?
Voodoo Jets attract numerous species, including amberjack and snapper, which have been observed congregating around the artificial reef structures. It acts as a vital aggregation point for various fish and invertebrate communities.
Were the jets prepared before being sunk?
Yes, jets underwent extensive preparation, with over 600 volunteer hours spent gutting them of all components and materials that could pose an environmental threat. They were also secured with concrete anchors.
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