Scuba Diving in Andaman Overview
The Indian Ocean around the Andaman Islands is teeming with marine life and filled with healthy, natural coral reefs. The many islands and soft sandy beaches make it a perfect tropical destination for scuba diving beginners or those looking to upgrade their certification or do some Fun Dives. Diving in Port Blair and diving in Havelock Island are the most popular, but there are also other smaller islands where a dive is a wonderful experience. The extensive marine ecosystem makes this one of the best spots for scuba diving in India.
Aquatic life of the Andaman - What will I see while scuba diving in Andaman?
The Andaman Islands are renowned throughout the world because of their pristine forests and sandy shores. However, thanks to the diverse and exotic marine life, they've also become one of the world's top scuba diving destinations.
The water around the islands is home to a gorgeous variety of fish species including humphead parrotfish, white-banded shrimp, peacock mantis, manta ray, clownfish, etc. Additionally, there are also immense colonies of corals that flourish on the sea bed which include some rare corals such as black coral, fire corals, gorgonians, etc.
How deep can I go while scuba diving in the Andaman?
When you go scuba diving, you have around 40-50 min before your oxygen runs out. This is more than enough time to enjoy a long dive experience, but the maximum depth will depend on your certification level and experience. If you are doing a Try Dive/Discover Dive or PADI Scuba Diver course, then the deepest you'll go is up to 40 feet. For the PADI Open Water Diver, you get to dive as deep as 60 feet, and for the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, you can go as deep as 100 feet.
What are the packages available for scuba diving in Andaman?
The packages start with Try Dive/Discover Scuba Dive. These are for absolute beginners who aren't sure if they want to commit to a full-time scuba diving course yet. These are single day trips that will teach you the basics of scuba diving. Some packages also offer pool training sessions to instil confidence in the divers. These packages are the perfect way to experiment with the world of scuba diving.
Once you decide to do more scuba diving, you can start with the scuba diving courses in Andamans. This starts with the basic PADI/SSI Scuba Diver course. This is a 2 day scuba diving course that offers 2 open water dives, as deep as 40 feet. Upon successfully completing the course, you're awarded with the PADI Scuba Diver certification.
However, if you have an extra day, it is recommended that you go for the PADI Open Water Diver course. This is a 3 day course which offers 4 open water dives up to a depth of 60 feet. This course is more extensive than PADI Scuba Diver course and perfect for those who are serious about scuba diving.
The next course is the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course. This course takes you as deep as 100 feet with 5 open water dives, 2 of which are specialized navigation and deep dives, and the remaining three being electives of your choice. With this certification, you are eligible to dive without an instructor, although you always have to take a dive buddy.
And finally, there are Fun Dives for divers who are already certified and just want to explore the exotic waters of the Andaman islands.
Scuba diving in Andaman prices
For scuba diving in the Andamans, the prices range from INR 3500 to INR 6000 for Try Dives. For Discover Scuba Diving in Andaman, the price ranges from INR 5000 to INR 10,000. The price for these day trips depend on the location of the dive site, equipment provided, type of dive (shore or boat) and if meals are included or not.
For scuba diving courses in Andamans, the price starts from INR 19000 to INR 23000 for the PADI Scuba Diver course. For PADI Open Water Diver course, the cost ranges between INR 22,000 to INR 30,000 and the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 28,000.
Some of the factors that affect the scuba diving prices in Andamans are: insurance, meals that are provided, the number of dives and type of dives (shore or boat), and if pool training is provided.
What else can I do in the Andaman
When you’re not diving, there’s plenty of things to do in the Andaman. Explore beaches, go for ocean treks, go kayaking or snorkelling, or relax with a swim. Get detailed information about other adventure activities in Havelock Island here.
You can also check out glass bottom boats, sea walks, kayaking, and more in Port Blair. Find out information about adventures in Port Blair here.
Where should I stay in the Andaman
Whatever you’re doing in the Andaman, you should find a comfortable place to stay. Choose from a range of accommodation options, from budget huts to luxurious air-conditioned cottages. Look for accommodation that is located on the beaches, so you can stay close to the sea at all times.
What is the best time to go scuba diving in Andaman
The best time for diving in Andaman is from December/January to May/mid-June, when the sea is calm and the visibility is good. Towards April and May, the weather warms up, making your experience a tropical dream.
Avoid going during the monsoon months of late June, July and August, unless you’re an experienced diver who won’t be deterred by some rough water. You can also head out after the monsoons, but you’ll be risking a few showers and altered plans.
What should I carry for my diving trip
For your trip, all you need is comfortable swimwear and a bottle of sunscreen. The operator will provide all the equipment you need. Read our blog Scuba 101 to understand what equipment you’ll be given. Carry long sleeved clothing, a pair of sunglasses and a cap for the sunny boat rides out to your dive spot.
Scuba Diving in Andaman Summary
- State: Andaman Nicobar
- Total days:1-4 days
- Grade: Easy to Moderate
- Max depth:40-100 feet
- Season: Summer and winter
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