Nestled in the shimmering turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Havelock Island (now officially known as Swaraj Dweep) is more than just a tropical getaway—it's a scuba diver’s dream come true. From vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life to crystal-clear visibility that stretches for meters, the underwater world of Havelock offers an unforgettable adventure for both beginners and seasoned divers.

Whether you’re seeking your first underwater breath or chasing the thrill of deep dives, Havelock has it all. Ready to take the plunge? Let’s explore why scuba diving in Havelock should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.

Why Havelock is a Scuba Diving Paradise

Havelock stands out as one of India’s premier scuba diving destinations—and for good reason. Its protected marine ecosystems, warm tropical waters, and coral gardens offer a unique experience that rivals diving hotspots across Southeast Asia.

Pristine Marine Biodiversity

Havelock is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, making its underwater world rich with biodiversity. Divers often encounter:

·        Clownfish dancing through anemones

·        Manta rays gliding with grace

·        Giant groupers, snappers, and barracudas

·        Even the occasional reef shark or sea turtle

Year-Round Diving Conditions

While October to May is the best season for scuba diving in Havelock, the island boasts favorable conditions most of the year. Water temperatures range from 26–30°C, and visibility often exceeds 15–20 meters.

Ideal for All Skill Levels

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced diver with hundreds of logged dives, Havelock offers something for everyone:

·        Try Dives for first-timers

·        PADI Open Water Certification for aspiring divers

·        Advanced Dive Sites like Johnny’s Gorge for the experienced

Top Scuba Diving Sites in Havelock

Each dive site around Havelock has its own personality—some calm and colorful, others deep and daring. Here are the must-dive locations:

Aquarium

Perfect for beginners, this shallow dive site (7–12 meters) is packed with colorful reef fish and hard corals.

Why Dive Here: Calm waters, beginner-friendly, rich in colors

Lighthouse

Ideal for night dives, the Lighthouse site allows you to witness nocturnal marine life in action under the glow of bioluminescence.

Depth: 6–18 meters
Unique Sightings: Octopuses, lionfish, lobsters, and phosphorescent plankton

Johnny’s Gorge

This is a favorite among seasoned divers. It’s deep (25–30 meters) and often sees larger pelagics like trevallies and reef sharks.

Recommended For: Advanced divers only

Dixon’s Pinnacle

Underwater rock formations at this site are home to a mesmerizing mix of schooling fish and rare nudibranchs.

Don’t Miss: Batfish and barracudas

What to Expect: The Scuba Diving Experience

The First-Timer’s Journey

If you’ve never dived before, don’t worry—most operators in Havelock offer Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) programs. These include:

·        A brief theory session

·        Confined water training near the shore

·        A guided open water dive (usually 30–40 minutes)

Certified instructors are by your side every step of the way, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

Certified Diver? Take It Further

If you’re already PADI or SSI certified, you can dive deeper into Havelock’s reefs. Many dive centers also offer:

·        Advanced Open Water Courses

·        Specialty Dives like wreck diving or night diving

·        Nitrox Certification for extended bottom time

Gear, Safety, and Regulations

·        Dive centers provide all equipment (mask, fins, wetsuits, BCD, regulator, etc.)

·        Safety briefings and emergency procedures are mandatory

·        Medical forms and fitness checks may be required

Dive Centers and Booking Options

There are several professional dive centers on Havelock Island offering training and guided dives. Some of the most reputable ones include:

·        Dive India – Known for professional instructors and good training facilities

·        Barefoot Scuba – Offers a luxury diving experience

·        Scubalov – Great for fun dives and customized trips

Booking Tips

·        Pre-book during peak season (December–March)

·        Ask about inclusions (gear, boat ride, underwater photos)

·        Ensure they follow international safety standards

You can also book curated packages via Fascinating Andaman for a hassle-free diving vacation, including accommodation and local travel.

Beyond Diving: Exploring Havelock Island

Once you’ve surfaced from your aquatic adventure, there’s still plenty to enjoy on the island.

Radhanagar Beach

Often listed among Asia’s most beautiful beaches, this serene stretch of white sand is perfect for sunsets and swimming.

Kayaking and Snorkeling

Explore mangroves on a guided kayaking tour or snorkel off Elephant Beach for a lighter alternative to scuba.

Island Vibes

Enjoy the laid-back charm of Havelock:

·        Fresh seafood at beach cafés

·        Hammock naps under coconut palms

·        Stargazing with zero light pollution

Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips

·        Best Months: October to May

·        Getting There: Ferries or catamarans from Port Blair (2–3 hours)

·        Stay Duration: Minimum 3–4 days to explore both diving and island life

·        Connectivity: Limited mobile data—perfect for a digital detox!

Packing Essentials

·        Lightweight clothes & swimwear

·        Reef-safe sunscreen

·        GoPro or waterproof camera

·        Dry bag for boat trips

 Conclusion

Whether you’re floating weightlessly over coral gardens or feeling the adrenaline of a deep-sea descent, scuba diving at Havelock is a life-affirming experience. It’s not just about seeing fish and coral—it’s about connecting with a world that's both mysterious and beautiful.

So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and dive into the magic of Havelock. Your underwater adventure awaits.