Why Havelock Is the Best Place for Scuba Diving in Andaman

The Andaman Islands are often pictured as a paradise of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and palm-lined shores. But for travelers who look beyond the surface, these islands hold something even more extraordinary—scuba diving in Andaman. The clear waters here open a window into a world of vibrant corals, exotic fish, and larger-than-life marine creatures that few places in India can match.

At the heart of this underwater adventure lies Havelock Island (now officially called Swaraj Dweep). Known worldwide among diving enthusiasts, Havelock is where the Andamans truly come alive beneath the waves. Whether you’re taking your very first dive or chasing deep-sea thrills, this island offers the perfect blend of beauty, biodiversity, and professionalism that makes it the best place for scuba diving in the Andaman Islands.

1. Pristine Underwater Ecosystem

The waters around Havelock Island are famous for their crystal-clear visibility, usually stretching up to 25–30 meters on good days. This clarity is what allows divers to fully appreciate the vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and fascinating marine creatures.

The coral formations here are healthy compared to many other parts of the world where reefs have suffered due to climate change and over-tourism. Soft corals, hard corals, and even rare species thrive, creating a thriving underwater ecosystem.

Divers often spot:

• Butterflyfish, angelfish, and clownfish weaving through corals.
• Schools of barracudas, trevallies, and fusiliers.
• Larger creatures like manta rays, reef sharks, and the occasional turtle gliding past.

For both beginners and pros, Havelock offers the kind of marine diversity that makes every dive unforgettable.

2. World-Class Dive Sites

Havelock isn’t just about diving—it’s about variety in diving. The island is home to some of the best dive sites in all of Asia. Each site has its own personality, depth profile, and highlights.

Here are some must-visit dive spots:

Elephant Beach

One of the most beginner-friendly spots. With shallow waters and a reef close to the shore, this is perfect for first-timers or those doing a quick dive/snorkel.

The Wall

Located near Havelock’s Lighthouse, this site is ideal for more experienced divers. It features a vertical drop covered in corals where you’ll find stingrays, groupers, and moray eels hiding among the rocks.

Seduction Point

Known for its rocky outcrop covered in staghorn corals, this dive site is bustling with marine life. Divers frequently encounter barracudas and napoleons here.

Aquarium

As the name suggests, this site is like swimming inside a giant natural aquarium. Expect excellent visibility and dense schools of colorful reef fish.

Johnny’s Gorge

A deeper site that attracts big pelagic species. From white-tip reef sharks to manta rays, this is a bucket-list dive for advanced divers.

The sheer variety ensures that whether you’re dipping your toes into scuba for the first time or racking up your hundredth dive, Havelock keeps you hooked.

3. Perfect Conditions for Learning

If you’ve ever thought about getting certified in scuba diving, Havelock is hands down the best place to do it. Here’s why:

• Calm waters: Most dive sites around Havelock have gentle currents, making it safe and comfortable for beginners.
• Warm temperatures: With water temperatures ranging between 26–29°C year-round, you can dive without worrying about thick wetsuits.
• Accessibility: Dive sites are a short boat ride away, so you spend less time traveling and more time underwater.
• Professional instructors: The island has several highly reputed dive schools offering PADI, SSI, and other international certifications.

From a Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) session to an Open Water or even Advanced Open Water certification, Havelock provides the right conditions to learn safely and confidently.

Read Also : Scuba Diving in Andaman Without Swimming Skills – Yes, It’s Possible!

4. Eco-Conscious Diving Culture

Unlike some overly commercialized dive destinations, Havelock has managed to strike a balance between tourism and sustainability. Dive operators here are deeply invested in reef conservation and responsible diving practices.

Most dive schools educate visitors on:

• Not touching corals or marine life.
• Maintaining buoyancy control to avoid damaging reefs.
• Using reef-safe sunscreens.

Some schools even conduct coral reef monitoring and conservation programs, allowing divers to contribute to protecting the very ecosystem they’re exploring.

This eco-conscious culture not only protects marine biodiversity but also makes divers more aware and respectful of the underwater world.

5. Accessible Yet Secluded

Getting to Havelock might feel like an adventure in itself, but it’s far easier than people imagine. Ferries run regularly from Port Blair, and the journey takes about 90 minutes to two hours by high-speed catamaran.

Once you’re there, you realize why divers love it so much. The island is developed enough to offer comfortable stays, cozy restaurants, and reliable dive shops, yet it remains quiet and far from overrun. Unlike Goa or Phuket, Havelock still feels like a slice of untouched paradise.

That balance of accessibility and seclusion makes every dive trip feel special. You’re not just another tourist in a crowded dive boat—you’re part of a small community of explorers.

6. Year-Round Diving Destination

One of Havelock’s biggest advantages is that diving here is possible throughout the year, although the peak season is from October to May.

• October to February: The most popular season, with calm seas and cool, pleasant weather.
• March to May: Hotter months but with excellent underwater visibility. Great for spotting bigger species.
• June to September: While it’s the monsoon season, diving is still possible on days when the weather cooperates. Plus, the island is less crowded during this time.

This flexibility means you can plan a trip based on your schedule without worrying too much about missing the best conditions.

Read Also : Why Scuba Diving in Andaman Is a Must-Do Adventure

7. Beyond Diving: The Full Havelock Experience

What sets Havelock apart is that it’s not just about scuba diving—it’s about everything that surrounds the experience. After a dive, you can spend the day soaking up the island’s beauty.

Some highlights:

• Radhanagar Beach: Consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Asia. Sunset here is unmissable.
• Kalapathar Beach: A quieter spot for reflection or photography.
• Seafood and local cuisine: From freshly caught fish curries to island-style barbeques, the food scene complements the adventure.
• Kayaking in mangroves: For a change of pace, paddle through the lush mangrove forests.
• Relaxing vibe: Whether you want a hammock by the sea or a yoga session, Havelock has the perfect slow rhythm.

Together, these experiences make diving trips feel like a complete holiday rather than just a technical sport outing.

8. Stories That Stay With You

Ask anyone who has dived in Havelock, and they’ll have a story to share:

• The thrill of their first breath underwater.
• The moment they locked eyes with a curious turtle.
• The surreal beauty of a coral wall stretching endlessly beneath them.

Scuba diving is not just about exploring a destination—it’s about creating personal memories that stick with you long after the trip ends. Havelock has a way of delivering those moments again and again.

9. Comparisons with Other Dive Destinations

It’s worth asking: why choose Havelock over other dive spots in India or Asia?

• Goa: Good for party vibes, but its diving scene is limited and the waters don’t match Havelock’s clarity or biodiversity.
• Lakshadweep: Fantastic reefs but harder to access due to permits and fewer flight connections.
• Thailand/Indonesia: More globally famous, but often crowded and commercialized compared to Havelock’s more intimate, raw experience.

Havelock hits the sweet spot—it’s accessible, affordable, eco-friendly, and rich in marine life without feeling overcrowded.

Final Thoughts

Scuba diving in Havelock isn’t just another holiday activity—it’s an immersion into a world that feels untouched, magical, and deeply humbling. The combination of pristine reefs, professional dive schools, eco-conscious practices, and the laid-back island lifestyle makes it stand out as the best place for scuba diving in Andaman.

Whether you’re taking your first plunge or chasing your hundredth dive, Havelock offers the kind of experience that makes you fall in love with the ocean all over again.

So if you’re planning a trip to the Andamans, don’t just stop at the beaches. Strap on that oxygen tank, take a deep breath, and let Havelock show you why the real beauty of the islands lies beneath the waves.