“ There is no better feeling than being underwater. It’ s the closest you can get to going to outer space.”
In addition to travel and training, Southern Ocean Sports offers a wide range of specialty courses. Students can learn spearfishing, underwater photography, deep diving, and even how to find megalodon teeth— massive fossilized shark teeth.
Stone, an avid underwater photographer, takes pride in capturing unforgettable images on every trip and has built a massive collection of jaw-dropping photos from around the world.
Community is at the core of the operation at Southern Ocean Sports. Students become friends, friends become travel partners, and everyone is invited to events like post-dive dinners and local fish fries. Stone has built a place where people are encouraged to connect and see the world from a new perspective, all while learning a skill that can last a lifetime.
“ It’ s not set for a certain gender, race, or sexual orientation,” said Stone.“ It is everybody’ s sport. And the fact that anybody can do it is what makes it special to me.”
Southern Ocean Sports offers something for everyone: a first breath underwater, a pathway to adventure, and a family that does not stop at a shoreline. With expert staff and life-changing travel opportunities, this dive shop is making a big splash.
More information can be found by visiting Southern Ocean Sports at 1607 N Ashley St. or on their website at southernoceansports. com.
June 2025 | Valdosta Scene 13