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Scuba diving in Andaman is one of the most popular adventure activities in India. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for coral reefs, clear tropical waters and rich marine life, making them suitable for both first-time divers and certified divers.
The main diving locations are Cinque Island, Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island), Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island), North Bay and South Andaman reef systems. These locations offer beginner dives, boat dives, reef dives and certification courses.
This guide covers scuba diving in Andaman, including the best dive sites, diving prices, eligibility, non-swimmer options and the best time to dive.
Quick Answer
The best time for scuba diving in Andaman is October to May, when sea conditions are generally calmer and underwater visibility is better. Travellers planning a diving holiday can also compare Andaman tour packages that combine accommodation, ferry transfers, local transport and sightseeing. Scuba diving activities can be added to most itineraries based on the destination and duration of the trip.
The top dive sites are:
- Cinque Island
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island)
- North Bay
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
- Corruption Rock
Introductory scuba diving usually costs ₹3,500–₹8,000 per person, while PADI and SSI certification courses are available separately. Most beginners can participate through a Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) programme with a certified instructor.
Can Beginners Do Scuba Diving in Andaman?
Yes. Scuba diving in Andaman is suitable for beginners and non-swimmers through introductory diving programmes conducted under instructor supervision.
A typical beginner dive includes:
- Safety briefing
- Equipment training
- Basic underwater communication
- Instructor-assisted dive
- Shallow reef exploration
Most introductory dives are conducted at 6–12 metres, depending on the location and sea conditions.
Minimum Age and Eligibility
The general eligibility for scuba diving in Andaman includes:
- Minimum age: 10 years
- Basic physical fitness
- No serious respiratory or cardiac conditions
- Ability to follow instructor instructions
Most dive operators require a medical declaration form before diving.
Best Dive Sites for Scuba Diving in Andaman
The best locations for scuba diving in Andaman are spread across South Andaman, Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island). Each dive site offers different depths, coral formations and marine life, making the islands suitable for both beginner and experienced divers.
Cinque Island (South Andaman)
Cinque Island is one of the most renowned locations for scuba diving in Andaman. It is known for excellent underwater visibility, healthy coral reefs and diverse marine life. Divers frequently encounter reef sharks, rays, turtles and large schools of reef fish, while the coral formations remain among the most attractive in the region. The site is generally recommended for intermediate and experienced divers because sea conditions and dive depths can vary.
Corruption Rock (South Andaman)
Located between Chidiya Tapu and Rutland Island, Corruption Rock is known for its underwater boulders, ridges, gullies and reef structures. The site supports a variety of marine life, including reef sharks, eagle rays, snappers, fusiliers, butterflyfish and surgeonfish. Because of its underwater terrain and changing conditions, Corruption Rock is more suitable for divers with previous diving experience.
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (South Andaman)
The reef systems within Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park are among the most biodiverse diving areas in South Andaman. Divers commonly encounter clownfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, batfish, groupers and surgeonfish, along with healthy hard and soft coral formations. The park is particularly suitable for recreational diving and underwater photography due to its rich marine biodiversity and well-preserved reef ecosystems.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) is the most popular destination for scuba diving in Andaman and is suitable for beginners as well as certified divers. The island has several well-known dive sites, including Mac Point, Aquarium, Barracuda City and Lighthouse. Mac Point is known for coral reefs and occasional dugong sightings, while Aquarium is ideal for first-time divers because of its shallow depth and calm conditions. Barracuda City is recommended for intermediate and advanced divers, and Lighthouse is famous for night diving, colourful corals and diverse marine life.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island) is known for calm reef conditions and good underwater visibility, making it a preferred location for beginners and recreational divers. Popular dive sites include Junction, Margherita’s Mischief and K Rock. Junction is known for healthy coral formations and reef fish, Margherita’s Mischief is suitable for shallow reef dives and underwater photography, and K Rock is a deeper dive site recommended for certified divers.
Scuba Diving Price in Andaman
The scuba diving price in Andaman depends on the dive location, type of dive and certification level. Introductory dives are the most affordable option for beginners, while boat dives and certification courses cost more because they include additional training and equipment.
| Dive Type | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) | ₹3,500–₹6,000 |
| Shore Dive | ₹3,500–₹5,500 |
| Boat Dive | ₹4,500–₹7,500 |
| Advanced Recreational Dive | ₹5,000–₹8,000 |
| PADI Open Water Course | ₹22,000–₹35,000 |
Most dive packages include diving equipment, instructor supervision, boat charges and basic underwater photographs or videos, although inclusions may vary between dive centres.
Best Time for Scuba Diving in Andaman
The best time for scuba diving in Andaman is October to May, when sea conditions are generally calmer and underwater visibility is better. This period is ideal for both beginner and certified divers, with most dive sites operating regularly.
| Season | Months | Diving Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Peak diving season | October to May | Best visibility and calmer seas |
| Winter season | November to February | Excellent diving conditions |
| Summer season | March to May | Good visibility and warm water |
| Monsoon season | June to September | Reduced visibility and occasional sea disruptions |
Water temperatures generally remain between 26°C and 29°C, making scuba diving comfortable throughout most of the year. For the best visibility, November to April is usually considered the most favourable period for scuba diving in Andaman.
Scuba Diving in Andaman for Non-Swimmers
Yes, non-swimmers can do scuba diving in Andaman. Most introductory dives are conducted through Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) programmes, where a certified instructor accompanies the participant throughout the dive.
For non-swimmers, dives are usually conducted at shallow reef sites with calm water conditions and continuous instructor supervision. Popular beginner-friendly locations include Aquarium in Havelock Island, North Bay and selected reef sites around Neil Island. A basic safety briefing and equipment training are provided before the dive, making it suitable for most first-time participants.
Safety Tips for Scuba Diving in Andaman
Scuba diving in Andaman is generally safe when conducted with a certified dive centre and trained instructors. Following basic safety guidelines helps ensure a comfortable and enjoyable diving experience.
- Choose a PADI or SSI certified dive operator.
- Attend the safety briefing before the dive.
- Inform the instructor about any medical conditions or previous diving experience.
- Do not hold your breath underwater.
- Equalise ear pressure during descent.
- Avoid alcohol before diving.
- Wait 18–24 hours before flying after scuba diving.
Following these precautions is important for both first-time divers and certified divers and helps reduce the risk of diving-related complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best place for scuba diving in Andaman?
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is considered the best place for scuba diving in Andaman, followed by Cinque Island, Neil Island and North Bay.
What is the cost of scuba diving in Andaman?
Introductory scuba diving usually costs ₹3,500–₹8,000 per person, while certification courses cost more depending on the course level.
Can non-swimmers do scuba diving in Andaman?
Yes. Non-swimmers can participate in Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) programmes under the supervision of certified instructors.
What is the best time for scuba diving in Andaman?
The best time is October to May, when sea conditions are generally calmer and underwater visibility is better.
How deep is beginner scuba diving in Andaman?
Beginner dives are usually conducted at 6–12 metres, depending on the dive site and weather conditions.
Is scuba diving in Andaman safe?
Yes. Scuba diving is generally safe when conducted with PADI or SSI certified dive centres and trained instructors.
Do I need to know swimming for scuba diving in Andaman?
Swimming is not mandatory for most introductory scuba diving experiences in Andaman.
Which island is better for scuba diving: Havelock or Neil Island?
Havelock Island offers more dive sites and advanced diving options, while Neil Island is known for calmer conditions and beginner-friendly reef dives.
Are underwater photos included in scuba diving packages?
Many dive centres include basic underwater photographs or videos, but inclusions may vary depending on the package.
How many days should I plan for scuba diving in Andaman?
A 3–5 day trip is usually sufficient to complete beginner dives, explore multiple dive sites and take a certification course if required.
Conclusion
Scuba diving in Andaman offers some of the best underwater experiences in India, with coral reefs, tropical marine life and dive sites suitable for both beginners and certified divers. Whether you choose Cinque Island, Havelock Island, Neil Island or South Andaman, each location provides a different diving experience based on depth, visibility and marine biodiversity.
For the best experience, plan your trip between October and May, choose a certified dive centre and book in advance during the peak season. A well-planned diving trip allows you to explore multiple dive sites, enjoy better underwater visibility and experience the rich marine ecosystem of the Andaman Islands safely and comfortably.
