Ultimate Guide to Scuba Diving in Andaman Islands 2025: Best Locations, Packages, Prices, Tips & Booking

Introduction

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are one of the most breathtaking tourist destinations in India, located in the Bay of Bengal. With pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and exotic marine life, the islands are often called the “tropical paradise” of India. Among the countless experiences these islands offer, scuba diving in Andaman stands out as the most adventurous and soul-stirring activity.

Unlike many other diving destinations, Andaman offers crystal-clear waters, world-class diving infrastructure, and trained professionals, making it a perfect choice for beginners, non-swimmers, and expert divers alike. This article provides complete information about scuba diving in Andaman—from locations, packages, pricing, timings, and safety tips to booking options—so you can plan your underwater adventure with confidence.

🌊 Why Choose Scuba Diving in Andaman?

Andaman Islands have become India’s top scuba diving destination due to several unique factors:

• Exceptional Marine Biodiversity: Over 200+ species of corals, reef fish, turtles, and rare creatures like manta rays.

• Unpolluted Waters: Visibility up to 40 meters, perfect for photography and exploration.

• Professional Guidance: PADI/SSI certified instructors ensuring global safety standards.

• Suitable for All Levels: From beginner-friendly shore dives to advanced wreck dives and night diving.

• Unique Diving Spots: Havelock and Neil Islands are ranked among the best diving sites in Asia.

📍 Best Places for Scuba Diving in Andaman

1. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

• Known as the scuba diving hub of India.

• Popular diving spots: Elephant Beach, Lighthouse, Aquarium, Dixon’s Pinnacle.

• Best for vibrant coral gardens and large schools of fish.

• Offers both shore dives for beginners and deep dives for pros.

2. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

• Quieter alternative to Havelock.

• Best sites: Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Reef.

• Ideal for travelers looking for serene underwater experiences.

3. Port Blair

• Easy access for short-term travelers.

• Famous for North Bay Island, Carbyn’s Cove Beach.

• Affordable scuba diving packages available.

4. North Bay Island

• Perfect for first-time divers.

• Colorful corals and shallow waters make it beginner-friendly.

5. Cinque Island (For Experienced Divers)

• Located 26 km from Port Blair.

• Considered one of the best diving spots in Asia.

• Untouched reefs, huge coral gardens, and rare marine life.

6. Barren Island (Advanced Diving)

• India’s only active volcano site.

• Offers rare diving opportunities with manta rays and reef sharks.

• Accessible only to experienced, certified divers.

💰 Scuba Diving Prices & Packages in Andaman (2025)

Scuba diving in Andaman is available at different price ranges depending on location, time, and level of dive.

👉 Note: Prices vary by season (peak season: October–April).

🕒 Best Timings for Scuba Diving in Andaman

• Morning dives (7 AM – 11 AM): Best for beginners with maximum visibility.

• Afternoon dives (12 PM – 2 PM): Good for short introductory dives.

• Night dives: Available for advanced divers only.

👨‍👩‍👧 Who Can Try Scuba Diving in Andaman?

• ✅ Beginners (with 30-minutes training session)

• ✅ Non-swimmers (assisted diving packages)

• ✅ Children (10+ years with parental consent)

• ✅ Experienced divers (advanced dives, night dives, wreck dives)

⚠️ Safety Measures & Tips

1. Always dive with certified instructors (PADI/SSI).

2. Do not scuba dive within 24 hours of flying.

3. Avoid alcohol or heavy meals before diving.

4. Pay attention to breathing techniques.

5. People with asthma, heart, or ear problems must consult doctors before diving.

📞 Popular Scuba Diving Centers in Andaman (With Contact Details)

Here are some reputed diving centers to book your underwater adventure:

1. Dive India, Havelock Island

   • Phone: +91-9932088599

   • Website: www.diveindia.com

2. Barefoot Scuba, Havelock

   • Phone: +91-9531913000

   • Website: www.barefootindia.com

3. Ocean Tribe, Neil Island

   • Phone: +91-9474262000

4. Lacadives, Chidiyatapu, Port Blair

   • Phone: +91-7710033466

5. Scubalov, Havelock

   • Phone: +91-8011177100

💡 Advance booking is recommended to avoid peak-season rush.

🌦️ Best Season for Scuba Diving in Andaman

• October to April → Ideal season with calm seas and excellent visibility.

• May to September → Monsoon season, strong currents, limited diving.

🎒 What to Expect During Your Dive

1. Short training session on breathing techniques & hand signals.

2. Gear-up with oxygen tanks, masks, fins, and wetsuit.

3. Dive into shallow waters with instructor support.

4. Explore coral reefs, colorful fish, and marine creatures.

5. Get underwater photos & videos as a memory.

🏄 Other Adventure Activities in Andaman

If you want to add more excitement, try:

• Snorkeling

• Sea Walking

• Parasailing

• Kayaking in Mangroves

• Banana Boat Rides

• Glass Bottom Boat Rides

✅ Final Thoughts

Scuba diving in Andaman is more than just an adventure—it is an unforgettable journey into an entirely different world beneath the sea. From the popular reefs of Havelock to the serene beauty of Neil Island and the rare diving experiences of Cinque and Barren Island, the Andamans offer something for everyone.

Whether you are a first-timer, non-swimmer, or advanced diver, you will find safe, professional, and exciting scuba diving packages tailored to your needs. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Andaman Islands in 2025, make sure scuba diving is at the top of your bucket list.

List of FAQs about Scuba Diving in Andaman Islands – Complete Underwater Adventure Guide

Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is one of the most sought-after adventure activities in India. The Andaman archipelago, surrounded by the Bay of Bengal, offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life that make it a diver’s paradise. Whether you’re a beginner or a certified diver, Andaman provides unforgettable underwater experiences at its world-class diving sites. To help you plan your perfect underwater journey, here’s a comprehensive and SEO-optimized list of FAQs about scuba diving in the Andaman Islands, covering everything from best locations and costs to safety, timing, and booking tips.

1. Why are the Andaman Islands famous for scuba diving?

The Andaman Islands are known for their unspoiled coral reefs, clear turquoise waters, and rich biodiversity. The visibility underwater can reach up to 30 meters, allowing divers to explore colorful corals, sea turtles, clownfish, reef sharks, and even manta rays. The Andaman Sea’s calm currents and ideal temperatures make it perfect for scuba diving all year round.

2. Where is the best place for scuba diving in Andaman?

The top scuba diving destinations in the Andaman Islands include:

• Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep): Famous sites like Elephant Beach, Lighthouse, Aquarium, and Seduction Point.

• Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Known for Junction, Margherita’s Mischief, and K Rock.

• North Bay Island: Ideal for beginners due to shallow, clear waters.

• Port Blair: Offers convenient dive centers like Corbyn’s Cove and North Bay Reef.

• Cinque and Barren Islands: For experienced divers, these sites offer advanced dives with rare marine life and volcanic formations.

3. Is scuba diving safe in the Andaman Islands?

Yes, scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is completely safe when conducted under certified instructors. Reputable dive centers follow PADI and SSI safety standards, and beginners receive full briefings before entering the water. All equipment is regularly maintained, and emergency protocols are in place at every dive site.

4. Do I need to know swimming for scuba diving in Andaman?

Not necessarily. Non-swimmers can try introductory dives like Discover Scuba Diving (DSD), which take place in shallow waters under expert supervision. However, for certification courses or deeper dives, basic swimming skills are required.

5. What is the minimum age for scuba diving in Andaman?

The minimum age for scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is 10 years for beginner programs. Children under 18 need parental consent. Certified junior diving programs are available for young enthusiasts.

6. What is the best time for scuba diving in Andaman?

The best time for scuba diving is from October to May, when the weather is calm, visibility is clear, and the sea is tranquil. The monsoon season (June to September) is less favorable due to rough sea conditions, though diving may still be possible on some days.

7. How much does scuba diving cost in Andaman?

The cost of scuba diving varies by location and dive type:

• Introductory Dive (for beginners): ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per person.

• Certified Dive: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 per dive.

• PADI Open Water Course: ₹25,000 – ₹35,000 for certification.
  Prices include diving gear, instructor guidance, and underwater photography (in some packages).

8. Which island is best for beginners in scuba diving?

Havelock Island is the best for beginners due to its calm waters and excellent dive schools. Sites like Lighthouse and Nemo Reef offer shallow depths, ideal for first-time divers to experience marine beauty safely.

9. How deep do scuba divers go in Andaman?

For beginners, dives usually range from 6 to 12 meters deep, while certified divers can explore depths of 18 to 30 meters. Advanced divers can go beyond 30 meters in selected sites under expert guidance.

10. Do I need certification for scuba diving in Andaman?

No certification is required for introductory or fun dives. However, if you wish to become a certified diver, you can enroll in PADI or SSI courses offered by professional dive schools in Havelock, Neil, and Port Blair.

11. What are the best scuba diving schools in the Andaman Islands?

Some of the most reputed PADI-certified dive centers include:

• Dive India (Havelock & Neil Island)

• Barefoot Scuba (Havelock Island)

• Ocean Tribe (Havelock Island)

• Lacadives (Chidiyatapu & Havelock)

• Eco Diver India (Port Blair)
  These schools offer training, fun dives, and advanced certification courses for divers of all levels.

12. What marine life can I see while diving in Andaman?

Underwater in the Andamans, you can spot vibrant coral gardens, clownfish, parrotfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and turtles. Experienced divers may encounter reef sharks, manta rays, barracudas, and octopuses. Every dive offers a new surprise in this colorful ecosystem.

13. Are underwater photos or videos included in the dive package?

Many dive centers offer underwater photography or video packages, either included in the dive cost or for an extra fee. It’s a great way to capture your first dive and cherish the memory forever.

14. Can non-swimmers try scuba diving safely?

Yes. For non-swimmers, Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) sessions allow a guided underwater experience up to 6–8 meters deep with an instructor holding on throughout. No swimming or prior experience is needed.

15. How long does a scuba diving session last?

A complete scuba diving session usually takes 1.5 to 3 hours, including briefing, gear fitting, and underwater exploration. The actual dive time underwater is typically 30 to 45 minutes.

16. What should I wear for scuba diving?

Dive centers provide wetsuits, masks, fins, and tanks. You only need to wear comfortable swimwear underneath. Avoid applying sunscreen just before diving, as it may harm coral reefs.

17. Is scuba diving allowed during monsoon season?

Scuba diving is possible during monsoon months but depends on weather and sea conditions. Dive centers monitor forecasts and prioritize safety. Visibility may be slightly reduced during this season.

18. Can I dive if I have medical conditions?

If you have health issues like asthma, heart problems, ear infections, or sinus issues, consult your doctor before diving. A medical fitness declaration is mandatory for all divers.

19. Can couples or honeymooners enjoy scuba diving together?

Absolutely! Scuba diving is a popular honeymoon activity in the Andamans. Couples can dive together, often accompanied by professional photographers to capture romantic underwater moments.

20. Which beaches in Andaman offer walk-in scuba diving?

North Bay Island (near Port Blair) and Elephant Beach (Havelock Island) offer walk-in scuba diving, where you can dive directly from the shore without needing a boat. These spots are ideal for first-time divers.

21. Can I book scuba diving in advance online?

Yes, online booking is highly recommended during the tourist season. Most reputed dive centers allow online reservations, ensuring your preferred slot and instructor availability.

22. What is the visibility like underwater in the Andaman Sea?

Visibility in the Andaman Sea ranges from 15 to 30 meters, depending on weather conditions. During the dry season, visibility is exceptionally clear, making it ideal for underwater photography and deep dives.

23. Are there night dives in the Andaman Islands?

Yes, night diving is available for certified divers on Havelock Island and Neil Island. It offers a unique experience to see nocturnal marine life like lobsters, crabs, and glowing plankton.

24. Can I do multiple dives in a day?

Yes, certified divers can enjoy two or more dives per day, with sufficient surface intervals for rest. Dive schools organize full-day dive packages for enthusiasts.

25. Is scuba diving worth it in Andaman compared to other destinations?

Definitely. The Andaman Islands are considered one of Asia’s top diving destinations due to their untouched coral reefs, rich biodiversity, and excellent safety standards. It offers an unmatched underwater experience that rivals popular global diving spots like Bali or the Maldives.

Conclusion: Dive into the Magic of the Andaman Islands

Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is not just an adventure—it’s a transformative experience. Whether you’re exploring coral reefs for the first time or diving deep into volcanic formations, Andaman’s underwater world will leave you mesmerized. From Havelock’s shimmering reefs to Neil’s calm dive sites, every location tells a different story of marine beauty.