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Scuba diving in Andaman offers a thrilling way to explore its underwater beauty, boasting crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Andaman has diving options for all. Below are details on the best dive spots, prices, and options available in 2023.
Scuba Diving Prices in Andaman (2023)
- Shore Diving at North Bay Island: INR 3500
- Great for beginners and non-swimmers, offering a chance to explore shallow coral reefs right off the beach.
- Shore Diving at Havelock Island: INR 3500
- A popular spot, ideal for diving beginners to discover marine life in calm waters.
- Boat Diving at Havelock Island: INR 5500
- For a deeper experience, exploring larger marine species and coral reefs.
- Boat Diving at Neil Island: INR 5500
- Tranquil waters and rich marine life make Neil Island a memorable dive destination.
- 4-Day Scuba Diving Course at Havelock Island: INR 29000
- A comprehensive course to get certified in scuba diving with practical and theoretical lessons.
- 4-Day Scuba Diving Course at Neil Island: INR 25000
- An alternative location for beginners, with hands-on learning and diving.
Important Information to Know Before Diving
- Age Restrictions: Typically, participants must be between 12 to 50 years old to ensure safety during diving activities.
- Medical Restrictions: Individuals with conditions such as asthma, heart problems, or high blood pressure should consult a doctor before diving.
- Certification Requirements: To explore deeper dive sites, an open water certification may be required. Courses are available for beginners to earn certification.
Popular Diving Locations in Andaman
- North Bay Island: Known for shallow waters, ideal for beginners.
- Havelock Island: A top diving spot with multiple dive sites, including Nemo Reef for beginners.
- Neil Island: Offers pristine dive sites and abundant marine life, perfect for intermediate divers.
- Barren Island: An advanced dive site with the only active volcano in India, offering a unique underwater experience.
Types of Scuba Diving Available in Andaman
- Shore Diving: Perfect for beginners and non-swimmers. Available at North Bay, Havelock, and Neil Islands.
- Boat Diving: Provides access to deeper waters for more experienced divers, including Havelock and Neil Islands.
- Advanced Open Water Diving: For certified divers to enhance their skills and explore challenging sites like Barren Island.
Notable Dive Sites in the Andaman Islands
- Nemo Reef (Havelock Island): Shallow waters with vibrant corals and abundant marine life.
- Elephant Beach (Havelock Island): Known for sea walking and snorkeling, though not suitable for beginners wanting to dive.
- Neil Island Dive Sites: Features coral gardens and encounters with turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
- Barren Island: A unique site for advanced divers to explore volcanic underwater activity.
Conclusion
Andaman is a premier destination for scuba diving, offering a range of options for divers of all levels. Whether you’re diving among the stunning reefs at Havelock or exploring volcanic waters at Barren Island, the Andaman Islands promise an unforgettable underwater adventure. The vibrant marine life and clear waters ensure you create lasting memories while exploring one of India’s most pristine dive locations.
FAQ
Is scuba diving suitable for non-swimmers in Andaman?
Yes! There are shore diving experiences for non-swimmers where an instructor will assist.
What is the best time to go scuba diving in Andaman?
The best time is between October and May when the weather is ideal for diving.
What are the age restrictions for scuba diving in Andaman?
Generally, scuba diving is suitable for ages 12 to 50.
Are there any medical restrictions for scuba diving in Andaman?
Individuals with heart conditions, asthma, high blood pressure, or pregnancy should consult a doctor before diving.
How much does scuba diving cost in Andaman?
Prices range from INR 3500 for shore dives to INR 5500 for boat diving, with 4-day courses available for INR 25,000 to INR 29,000.
Do I need prior scuba diving experience to dive in Andaman?
No, there are options for beginners and non-swimmers, with guided dives and courses available.
Can I dive near the active volcano at Barren Island?
Yes, but only advanced divers can explore Barren Island’s volcanic dive sites.
What are the popular dive sites in Andaman?
Popular sites include Nemo Reef, Elephant Beach, Neil Island, and Barren Island.
Are experienced and certified instructors available for diving in Andaman?
Yes, certified instructors are available to ensure safety and provide guidance.
Can I combine scuba diving with other water activities in Andaman?
Absolutely! Many dive operators offer packages that combine diving with other activities like snorkeling, sea walking, and parasailing.
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