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.

Location Duration Price Range (₹) Includes
Havelock Island 30–45 mins ₹3,500 – ₹6,000 Equipment, instructor, underwater photography
Neil Island 30–45 mins ₹3,000 – ₹5,500 Training, safety gear, guide
Port Blair 20–30 mins ₹2,500 – ₹4,500 Beginner-friendly dive
North Bay Island 20–25 mins ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 Short intro dive
Night Diving (Pro) 45–60 mins ₹6,000 – ₹9,000 Torch, instructor, safety equipment
PADI Certification 3–5 days ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 Full diving course & license

👉 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

  2. Barefoot Scuba, Havelock

  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.