<p>The application of an actual stratified geoacoustic model for sound propagation is quantitatively assessed using joint geoacoustic and hydroacoustic survey experimental data from the South China Sea. Three sound propagation models, namely, the ray model BELLHOP, the parabolic equation model RAM, and the normal mode model KRAKENC, are applied individually to characterize an actual complex, stratified geoacoustic model and subsequently calculate the sound transmission loss along the survey line. The simulated transmission losses from the three sound propagation models are compared with the measured results to assess their capabilities, particularly computational accuracy and efficiency, in handling complex geoacoustic environments. The influence of the seabed’s stratified structure and its diverse geoacoustic parameters on sound propagation is also analyzed by calculating the root mean square error between the theoretical and measured sound propagation losses. The compatibility of the actual stratified geoacoustic model with sound field predictions is enhanced through a sensitivity analysis of the above parameters, ultimately leading to the development of a finely calibrated geoacoustic model.</p>