My son Forrest and I have both completed the pool dives and course work for our Open Water certification through Southern Maryland Divers, and we have both had extremely positive experiences! The staff at the dive shop, the equipment we were supplied with, and the online course work were all exemplary, and I highly recommend this shop to anyone seeking scuba certification. My son doesn't take immediately to activities or people, so when he said he loved scuba diving after the first day of class, I was honestly startled. I'm sure that had everything to do with our instructors, Ashley and Barrett Jackson. They kept the class moving, created an atmosphere of safety and were very patient, giving us ample time to learn. Personally, I was nervous about learning to dive, but Ashley and Barrett made me feel confident and secure. They were definitely mindful of providing positive and encouraging feedback, which gave me the courage to continue trying new skills. Barrett takes the time to make sure you have completely understanding of the skills before you try them, and both he and Ashley keep a careful eye on all of the students as they complete tasks. I could see by watching my son that he was comfortable asking questions and that he was having fun. I could also see his proficiency with the equipment and tasks improve between the first and second days. Scuba is something I said I'd never do, and now I can't wait to do it again! Ashley and Barrett's enthusiasm is infectious, and I can't wait to get my open water cert and plan some dives. We may even get some additional certifications. When we do we will definitely choose Southern Maryland Diving! read more

Don't let the location of the shop (southern Maryland) fool you. This is one of the best shops on the east coast. The wealth of knowledge and skill that Paul and his team have is hard to beat. These guys love to dive, and it shows with everything they do. They truly understand customer service and they pride themselves on supporting their customers. The shop can support everything you need from beginner diver, tech diver, and CCR diver. You won't find another shop that can cater to this broad type of diver and skill level. Tech / CCR divers will love this place. Paul and his team are serious deep/wreck/cave divers and they built a shop that is designed to support divers that have unique equipment/training requirements. Paul and his team of instructors provide excellent instruction and really focus on teaching you to dive, not just passing the class. If you are looking for a group of passionate divers who love teaching, you do not need to look any further. Overall, this is one of the best dive shops around. No matter what type of diver you are, Southern Maryland Divers can support you and your needs. read more

Our dive instructors Barrett and Ashley Jackson were EXCELLENT!! They took time to carefully explain each step of the way and were patient with me during my mini panic attacks in our pool sessions. As a new diver, I felt a bit of anxiety breathing under water for the first time. I never felt rushed or pushed beyond my limits. They always reassured me and gave me positive feedback when I did the right things. They gave the confidence I need to dive the Great Barrier Reef on my honeymoon this fall. If you go with Southern Maryland Divers then personally request the Jacksons as your instructors & I assure you that you're in good hands! Also, Barrett is sort of a tech type guy and a teacher by trade. They both seem to totally enjoy what they're doing so they make it fun for all and offer helpful tips along the way! read more

I called So MD Divers Sept 2014 when I got invited to go on a Jamaican vacation, scheduled for Feb 2015. My friends are avid divers & I was hoping to surprise them. I called & talked to the owner, Paul. He answered all of my questions & got me into the next class, which was Oct 2014. I was able to purchase everything I needed for the class (& future diving) at reasonable prices from the shop. Not only was Paul a knowledgable & patient instructor, he went out of his way to accommodate me. (I had a wedding to attend the same weekend as our class). Needless to say, my first diving vacation was wonderful & I'm hooked! If you're considering becoming a diver or advancing your skills, So MD Divers is the way to go! read more

I had another great experience with Southern Maryland Divers last weekend. I completed my Drysuit and Rec Sidemount specialty courses and had a fantastic time! Jon Vieley and Jacob Hill provided excellent instruction that will allow me to greatly expand my future diving opportunities. The courses were well organized, concepts clearly explained, dives well briefed and executed. I used the shop's rental drysuits and sidemount regulators, saving me from a significant gear expense to complete the courses. Paul Lenharr also made me a great deal on a Nomad XT BC. These courses will help build me a solid foundation for taking the Tec 40 class soon. Can't wait! read more

These guys are great. Customer service is excellent, all instructors are professionals, kind, and always willing to help. Special thanks to Gary. He is a fantastic instructor, very patient and always full of good tips. He's all about safety and technique helped us a lot with our training. If your are looking to get certified I cannot think of a better place. Also, I already got all my equipment from SOMD and they had the best brands and excellent prices. Paul (the owner), Marcus, and Erin, went an extra mile helping in selecting the best equipment. I recommend Southern Maryland Divers 100%. You are in good hands. Buy local, support local business. read more

Southern Maryland Divers is an amazing scuba training company and a shop with all the gear you need. I have taken my Advanced Open Water certification and Nitrox certification through Southern Maryland Divers and cannot wait to continue my scuba education with this company. I have been on a dive trip with Southern Maryland Divers and I already have my next trip planned with them. I have had nothing but excellent experiences in the classroom and under the water with Southern Maryland Divers. read more

I received my open water certification from Paul. He and his staff are very patient and professional. They can answer any scuba related questions and have a full shop of gear. I just dropped 4 tanks off to get VIPs and got them back the next day. I will be taking my daughter to Florida next month with Paul to get her open water cert. I wouldn't trust her with anyone else. Southern Maryland Divers ROCK... read more

This is the best shop around hands down great instructors the best gear for a nice price and awesome service. You can't go wrong

Excellent, expedient service. Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Super quick turn around on my annual regulator service.

Great organization with top notch customer service.

Great place for dive training and gear

Easily the best shop in the area.