Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is a transformative experience. With crystal-clear waters offering visibility up to 25 meters, you will explore ancient coral gardens, schools of vibrant reef fish, and perhaps even sea turtles or dugongs. For most travelers, the "Discover Scuba Diving" (DSD) program is the perfect way to experience the underwater world without needing a long-term certification.
💰 Scuba Diving Pricing (2026 Rates)
Prices vary based on the depth of the dive and whether you are diving from the shore or a boat. Most packages now include high-quality GoPro photography and short video clips as standard.
📍 Top 3 Dive Destinations
1. Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) — The Hub
Home to Nemo Reef (perfect for beginners) and Tribe Gate. The infrastructure here is world-class with the highest density of PADI/SSI centers.
💡 Pro Tip If you are a certified diver, ask for a trip to Johnny’s Gorge to see reef sharks and rays.
2. Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island) — The Hidden Gem
Offers a much quieter experience than Havelock. The reefs at Margherita’s Mischief are known for their unique macro-life and sea cucumbers.
💡 Pro Tip Water currents here are generally milder, making it ideal for nervous first-timers.
3. North Bay Island — The Day Trip
Located near Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), this is the most convenient spot for travelers with limited time.
💡 Pro Tip Combine your dive with a visit to the iconic lighthouse featured on the old ₹20 note.
📅 The Dive Day Process
A standard Discover Scuba experience takes about 2 to 3 hours from start to finish. Here is what to expect:
- 1 Briefing: Learning basic hand signals and how to breathe through the regulator.
- 2 Shallow Water Training: Practicing 3 essential skills (Regulator Recovery, Mask Clearing, and Equalization) where you can still stand up.
- 3 The Guided Dive: Descending to a maximum of 10-12 meters with a personal instructor holding your tank throughout.
- 4 Media & De-brief: Collecting your underwater photos and receiving a certificate of completion.
⚠️ Critical Safety & Health Rules
- The 24-Hour No-Fly Rule: You MUST NOT board a flight within 24 hours of your last dive. This is to prevent Decompression Sickness (DCS). Plan your dive at least one day before you leave the islands.
- Medical Fitness: If you have a history of asthma, heart issues, or serious ear problems, you will need a doctor's clearance.
- Eco-Ethics: Touching, breaking, or standing on coral is strictly prohibited. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.