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Diving is one of the main reasons people come to the Andamans, and Havelock is the centre of it. The waters around the island are warm and clear in the dry season, the reefs are varied, and the dive centres offer everything from a first-time experience to advanced courses. If you have never dived, Havelock is a good place to start, as long as you choose carefully.
What you can do
- Introductory dive (Discover Scuba). For beginners, with no certification required. After a briefing and some practice in shallow water, you dive with an instructor to a limited depth.
- Certification courses. Open Water courses take several days and give you a licence valid worldwide.
- Fun dives. For certified divers, guided dives at a range of sites.
- Snorkelling trips. For those who prefer to stay near the surface.
What you might see
Dive sites around Havelock and nearby islands feature coral gardens, schools of reef fish, parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish, sea turtles, rays and, with luck, reef sharks. Visibility varies with season and tide. Some sites are shallow and gentle, suitable for beginners; others have drop-offs and currents suited to experienced divers.
Choosing an operator
This is the most important decision. Look for:
- Certification. Instructors should hold recognised qualifications, and the centre should be affiliated with a known training agency.
- Insurance and safety. Ask about emergency procedures, oxygen on board and ratio of instructors to divers.
- Equipment. It should be well maintained and fit properly.
- Briefings. A good operator explains equipment, hand signals and reef etiquette.
- Group size. Small groups are safer and more enjoyable.
- Reviews. Check recent feedback and ask your planner for recommendations.
Avoid centres that rush you, skip the briefing or offer prices that are far below the rest.
Health and safety
- Be honest on the medical form. Asthma, ear or sinus problems, heart conditions and pregnancy can affect whether you can dive.
- Do not dive with a cold or congestion.
- Avoid alcohol the day before and on the day.
- Do not fly within 18 to 24 hours of diving. Plan your last dive for at least a day before your flight home.
- Listen to your instructor and follow hand signals.
- Never touch marine life.
Reef etiquette
Keep your fins and hands away from the coral. Control your buoyancy. Do not chase or feed fish. Take nothing from the sea, including shells and corals, which is illegal. Choose centres that promote responsible practices, and support those that run reef clean-ups.
When to dive
November to April is the best period, with calm seas and clear water. Visibility is highest from February to April. In the monsoon, dive centres often close, and sea conditions are poor.
What to bring
A swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen (reef-safe), a rash vest, a dry change of clothes and a waterproof bag. Dive centres provide the main equipment. Bring your logbook and certification card if you are a certified diver.
Costs and booking
Prices depend on the type of dive and operator. Book in advance for December to January. We can arrange dives with reputable centres as part of your package, or recommend them for independent booking.
Who it suits
Adventurous travellers, couples, friends and families with children above the minimum age set by the operator, typically 10 for introductory dives. It is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions, so check with a doctor if in doubt.
Plan with us
Diving fits into our scuba and snorkel trip and any Havelock stay. See the Havelock guide or ask us for a custom plan.
