🤿 Scuba Diving in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Scuba Diving in Andaman

Scuba diving is one of the most popular adventure activities in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The islands are surrounded by clear tropical waters, coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity, making them an attractive destination for both first-time divers and experienced scuba divers.

The Andaman & Nicobar Tourism Department lists scuba diving among the major adventure experiences available to visitors. Popular diving areas include Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island), Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island) and North Bay. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Scuba Diving at a Glance

Best Places for Scuba Diving in Andaman

Types of Scuba Diving Available

1. Discover Scuba Diving

Discover Scuba Diving is designed for people who want to experience scuba diving without immediately undertaking a full certification course. The activity normally includes an instructor briefing, equipment orientation and a supervised underwater experience.

2. Certified Fun Dives

Certified divers can join guided fun dives to explore underwater reefs and marine habitats. The appropriate dive site depends on certification, experience, weather and local operating conditions.

3. Open Water Certification

Travellers interested in becoming certified divers can undertake recognised scuba certification courses such as PADI or SSI programmes through appropriate diving centres.

4. Advanced Diving

Experienced certified divers can explore more advanced dive sites depending on their qualification, logged experience, weather and operator assessment.

5. Live-aboard Diving

The Andaman Tourism Department also lists live-aboard diving among the available diving options. These trips allow divers to spend several days on a diving vessel and reach more remote areas.

Live-aboard diving is generally more appropriate for experienced divers and must be planned with a qualified operator.

Is Scuba Diving Suitable for Beginners?

Yes. Beginners can participate in introductory scuba experiences under the supervision of qualified diving professionals.

However, every person should follow the operator's medical and safety requirements. Being comfortable in the water, following instructions and maintaining calm breathing are important for a positive diving experience.

Can Non-Swimmers Go Scuba Diving?

Some introductory scuba programmes are designed for non-swimmers or people with limited swimming ability, depending on the operator and programme.

However, swimming ability may be required for formal certification courses and specific diving activities. Requirements can also differ between operators.

Therefore, tell the dive centre honestly about your swimming ability before booking.

Best Time for Scuba Diving in Andaman

The official Andaman & Nicobar Tourism information lists October to May as a favourable tourism period, while specific diving conditions depend on weather, sea state, visibility and local operating conditions. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Scuba Diving Safety Guidelines

Scuba diving is an adventure activity and should always be undertaken through an authorised and professionally operated diving centre.

• Follow the complete briefing provided by your instructor.
• Use properly maintained scuba equipment.
• Never dive alone.
• Do not dive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Inform the instructor about medical conditions or medications before diving.
• Never hold your breath while scuba diving.
• Follow the dive plan and depth limitations.
• Follow the instructor's instructions regarding currents, weather and sea conditions.
• Do not touch, stand on or damage coral reefs.
• Maintain appropriate distance from marine animals.

Important Diving Rules

The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has published guidelines for scuba diving centres and diving activities. The guidelines include requirements relating to dive planning, weather conditions, diver qualification, equipment and prohibited diving conditions. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

The published guidelines also state that dives should not be undertaken less than 24 hours before flying in a pressurised aircraft. Divers should therefore plan their final dive and flight carefully. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Scuba Diving Equipment

A typical scuba diving setup can include a mask, fins, wetsuit or exposure protection, buoyancy control device, regulator, cylinder, weights and other safety equipment.

Most recreational visitors do not need to purchase their own equipment. Diving centres generally provide the required equipment as part of the activity or course.

Marine Life You May See

The waters around the Andaman Islands contain diverse marine habitats and coral ecosystems. Depending on the location and conditions, divers may encounter colourful reef fish, corals, sea turtles and other marine life.

Marine sightings are never guaranteed. Divers should observe animals responsibly and avoid touching coral, feeding wildlife or disturbing marine organisms.

Scuba Diving Cost in Andaman

Scuba diving prices vary depending on the type of dive, location, duration, equipment, certification programme, boat transfer and the individual operator.

Always confirm the current price directly with the authorised diving centre before booking.

How to Book Scuba Diving in Andaman

1. Choose the island where you will stay.
2. Select a registered/authorised diving centre.
3. Tell the operator whether you are a beginner, non-swimmer or certified diver.
4. Check the activity type and duration.
5. Confirm what equipment is included.
6. Ask about weather and cancellation policies.
7. Confirm reporting time and transfer arrangements.
8. Follow the complete safety briefing before entering the water.

Choose an Authorised Scuba Diving Centre

The Directorate of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration publishes information about permitted scuba diving operators. Before booking, visitors should verify that the centre is currently authorised and that its permission is valid for the intended activity and location.

The official tourism scuba-diving information includes separate operator information for Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Responsible Scuba Diving

The underwater environment is one of the most valuable natural assets of the Andaman Islands. Responsible tourism helps protect coral reefs and marine life for future generations.

• Do not touch coral.
• Do not collect shells, corals or marine organisms.
• Do not feed fish unless specifically permitted under approved activity guidelines.
• Maintain neutral buoyancy and avoid kicking coral.
• Do not throw plastic or waste into the sea.
• Follow marine park and local environmental rules.

Frequently Asked Questions