Scuba diving in the Andamans isn’t just an activity—it’s a full underwater experience. With crystal-clear water, rich coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, islands like Havelock Island (now officially Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) are among the best diving destinations in India.
Whether you’re a beginner or a certified diver, this guide covers everything you need—safety, diving protocols, and top dive sites.
Why Scuba Dive in the Andaman?
- Visibility up to 20–40 meters
- Warm water (26–30°C) all year
- Rich biodiversity: reef sharks, turtles, manta rays, clownfish
- Ideal for both beginners and advanced divers
Scuba Diving Safety Guidelines
Safety is the most important part of diving. Reputed dive centers in Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil follow international standards like PADI.
Before the Dive
- Fill out a medical questionnaire
- Avoid alcohol 24 hours before diving
- Stay hydrated and well-rested
- Listen carefully to the instructor briefing
During the Dive
- Always dive with a certified instructor or buddy
- Equalize your ears frequently
- Never hold your breath (prevents lung injury)
- Maintain controlled breathing
- Stay within your depth limit
After the Dive
- Drink plenty of water
- Rest and avoid heavy activity
Important Safety Risks to Know
1. Decompression Sickness (DCS)
Occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body due to rapid ascent.
– Prevent it by ascending slowly and doing a safety stop.
2. Ear Barotrauma
Pressure imbalance can cause ear pain.
– Equalize early and often.
3. Marine Life Hazards
- Don’t touch corals or marine animals
- Some species can sting or bite
Scuba Diving Protocols (Step-by-Step)
1. Registration & Briefing
- Choose your dive package
- Instructor explains equipment and underwater signals
2. Gear Setup
Includes:
- Mask & snorkel
- Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
- Regulator
- Oxygen tank
- Fins
3. Shallow Water Training
- Practice breathing underwater
- Learn basic skills like mask clearing
4. Open Water Dive
- Descend gradually (usually 6–12 meters for beginners)
- Explore reef under supervision
5. Surface & Debrief
- Discuss your dive experience
- Get photos/videos (optional)
Around Havelock Island
This area is the heart of scuba diving in the Andamans. The underwater environment here is known for its exceptional visibility, calm conditions, and vibrant coral ecosystems. Divers can expect to glide over expansive coral gardens filled with tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasionally larger pelagic species.
The waters are beginner-friendly, with gentle currents and shallow reefs that gradually deepen—making it ideal for both first-time divers and experienced enthusiasts.
Around Neil Island
Diving here offers a more peaceful and untouched underwater experience. The reefs are relatively less disturbed, which means healthier coral formations and diverse marine life.
Expect unique underwater landscapes with interesting rock formations, soft corals, and schools of reef fish moving in harmony. It’s perfect for those who want a slower, more immersive dive away from crowds.
Around Port Blair
If you’re short on time, the waters around Port Blair provide a convenient introduction to scuba diving. The underwater scenery includes coral patches, sandy seabeds, and a variety of small marine species.
It’s a great option for beginners looking to experience diving without traveling far while still enjoying the beauty of the Andaman’s marine life.