When it comes to diving, thoughts of exotic islands and deep, crystal waters are brought to mind. For Phil Hetherington, however, there is something to see and explore in any body of water. This led him to open Sugar Land Dive Center—to bring a scuba experience to land-locked residents who otherwise may have never thought twice about exploring the deep.

"People do not realize, but Texas has a lot of divers," Hetherington said. "I have had just as good a dive in 288 Lake [in Pearland] on a sunny day as in the Pacific. It's just a different environment."

Hetherington has taken dives in waters all around the world from Cozumel to Indonesia, and he has been teaching scuba in Houston since the mid-1980s. He opened Sugar Land Dive Center nearly three years ago to offer local scuba services and certifications in an under-served community.

Hetherington and his wife, Chris, have been diving together since their honeymoon and have resided in Sugar Land for nearly 20 years.

"We are tied into the community," Hetherington said. "This is home."

In addition to selling scuba equipment and accessories, Hetherington and his staff train and certify prospective divers to help them learn proper and safe procedures and show customers that scuba can be more than a hobby.

"We encourage and give direction," Hetherington said. "Everything in our classes is done at the student's pace. We encourage our students to take the advanced diver certification. Advanced classes give students a broader experience of diving. Once they are certified, our students can go to a fun location for a guided tour anytime."

Recently, Hetherington decided to install a 35,000-gallon pool next door to give students a place to practice diving in a controlled environment.

"Our operation is self-contained, and students can practice right here," he said.

Take the dive

Typically, Sugar Land Dive Center takes six–eight trips each year to allow students to put their knowledge to the test in unfamiliar waters. Destinations range from the Caymans to the Virgin Islands. Upcoming trips include:

Cozumel in June

Fiji in July

Bonair in December

Trips are open to the public, but travelers must be certified to participate in dives.

3362 Hwy. 6

Sugar Land 281-240-3483

www.sugarlandscuba.com

Hours: Mon.–Fri. 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sun. Noon–4 p.m.