Scuba Diving in Andaman and Havelock Island: A Complete Guide
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, are a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Among the many islands, Havelock Island (now officially called Swaraj Dweep) is the crown jewel, offering some of the best dive sites in India. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, exploring the vibrant marine life in these waters is an unforgettable experience.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about scuba diving in Andaman and Havelock Island, including the best dive sites, costs, safety tips, and more.
Why Choose Andaman for Scuba Diving?
Andaman’s waters are home to stunning coral reefs, diverse marine species, and excellent underwater visibility. The warm tropical climate and calm seas make it an ideal diving destination year-round. Some key reasons to dive here include:
✅ Rich Marine Biodiversity – Expect to see colorful corals, manta rays, sea turtles, barracudas, and even reef sharks.
✅ Variety of Dive Sites – From shallow beginner-friendly sites to deep-sea wreck diving spots.
✅ Crystal-Clear Water – Visibility ranges from 10 to 40 meters, perfect for underwater photography.
✅ Affordability – Compared to international dive destinations, Andaman offers world-class experiences at reasonable prices.
Best Scuba Diving Spots in Andaman and Havelock
1. Elephant Beach (Havelock Island)
- Best for: Beginners and snorkelers
- Depth: 6-12 meters
- Highlights: Coral gardens, small reef sharks, clownfish, and butterflyfish
Elephant Beach is one of the most famous dive spots, perfect for first-time divers. The shallow waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a fantastic introduction to the underwater world.
2. Nemo Reef (Havelock Island)
- Best for: Beginners and fun dives
- Depth: 6-16 meters
- Highlights: Clownfish (Nemo), parrotfish, angelfish, and moray eels
Named after the famous Pixar fish, Nemo Reef is an ideal training ground for scuba diving. The waters are calm, and the site is teeming with marine life, making it an excellent spot for novice divers.
3. The Wall (Havelock Island)
- Best for: Advanced divers
- Depth: 10-55 meters
- Highlights: Barracudas, reef sharks, stingrays, and macro marine life
This site features a stunning vertical reef drop, where you can witness large schools of fish, octopuses, and even the occasional manta ray. It’s a must-visit for experienced divers looking for a thrilling dive.
4. Barracuda City (Havelock Island)
- Best for: Intermediate and advanced divers
- Depth: 12-25 meters
- Highlights: Sea turtles, barracudas, fusiliers, and soft corals
Barracuda City is famous for its large schools of barracudas and the presence of majestic sea turtles. The dive is a mix of deep reefs and sandy bottoms, making it perfect for spotting larger marine species.
5. Johnny’s Gorge (Neil Island)
- Best for: Advanced divers
- Depth: 15-30 meters
- Highlights: Sharks, rays, and vibrant soft corals
This is one of the best places to spot sharks in the Andaman Sea. It’s a deep dive site, and you’ll encounter reef sharks, eagle rays, and mesmerizing coral formations.
Best Time to Visit for Scuba Diving
The best time to dive in Andaman is from October to May when the sea is calm and visibility is at its best. The monsoon season (June to September) brings rough seas and reduced visibility, so diving is not recommended during this period.
Types of Scuba Diving Available
1. Discover Scuba Diving (DSD)
- For beginners with no certification
- Includes a short training session and a guided dive
- Depth: 6-12 meters
2. Open Water Diver Course (PADI/SSI Certification)
- For those who want to become certified divers
- 3-4 day course covering theory, confined water practice, and open-water dives
- Depth: Up to 18 meters
3. Advanced Open Water Diver Course
- For certified divers who want to explore deeper waters and specialized dives
- Includes night dives, deep dives, and wreck diving
- Depth: Up to 30 meters
4. Fun Dives for Certified Divers
- Single or multiple dives for already certified divers
- Ideal for exploring deeper and more challenging sites
Scuba Diving Cost in Andaman
Prices may vary based on the dive center and location. It’s always recommended to book with PADI or SSI-certified dive centers to ensure safety and quality.
Top Scuba Diving Operators in Andaman
Here are some of the most trusted dive centers in Havelock and Andaman:
✅ Dive India (Havelock & Neil Island) – One of the oldest and most reputable dive centers.
✅ Barefoot Scuba (Havelock Island) – Known for professional instructors and excellent service.
✅ Andaman Bubbles (Havelock Island) – Great for beginners and fun dives.
✅ Lacadives (Chidiya Tapu, Port Blair) – Offers deep-sea diving experiences.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Scuba Diving Experience
✔️ Choose a certified dive center – Ensure they follow safety protocols and have experienced instructors.
✔️ Don’t dive right after a flight – Wait at least 12-18 hours before and after your dive to avoid decompression sickness.
✔️ Listen to your instructor – Follow all safety briefings and signals during your dive.
✔️ Stay calm and breathe normally – Avoid holding your breath underwater.
✔️ Respect marine life – Do not touch corals or disturb marine creatures.
✔️ Check equipment before diving – Ensure your mask, regulator, and buoyancy control device (BCD) are working properly.
Conclusion
Scuba diving in Andaman, especially at Havelock Island, is a dream experience for adventure seekers and marine life lovers. Whether you’re taking your first dive or exploring deep waters as a pro, the stunning underwater world of Andaman will leave you mesmerized.
So, pack your gear (or rent one), book your dive, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves!
Have you experienced scuba diving in Andaman? Share your thoughts in the comments below!