Scuba diving is a one-of-a-kind attraction among tourists who visit the Andaman Islands. The island has some of the most exotic schools of fish, as well as a breath-taking coral reef. Andaman Island is also a haven for scuba diving as there are no predator sharks. So, even the most novice of divers can enjoy themselves here.
Nevertheless, you still can’t do it without a proper guide. You may also need to undergo some training before you can indulge in the activity. So, without further ado, let’s see what scuba diving in Andaman is all about.
What is Scuba Diving?
This activity is a type of diving in which the diver will be fitted with a completely independent apparatus for breathing. In an exotic place like Andaman Island, scuba diving is an activity that not only experts enjoy, but also rookies who have no experience whatsoever in swimming. You will, however, be given all the necessary equipment that will help you swim underwater.
Initially, though, you may have to undergo some training during which you can’t dive too deep into the sea. Later, however, once you get acquainted with the basics, you can go as much more profound as you like, although you should still make it a point to listen to all the instructions given by the trainers.
You also get scuba diving lessons for couples who are looking to enjoy the fun activity together. With various tours and packages to choose from scuba diving in Andaman will surely be one of the best water sport activities you will indulge in on your trip.
Why Scuba Dive in Andaman Island?
Enthusiasts mostly go for scuba diving for recreational purposes. But one of the major reasons that different people, even the inexperienced ones, want to do this activity is to explore what lies beneath the sea. The underside of the sea is one area on the planet that humans haven’t been able to control entirely. And scuba diving allows you to get down there and witness life under the sea.
Scuba diving in Havelock Island, Andaman can teach you about life under the sea and also be enthralling at the same time. Safety is the most critical aspect of this activity. So, make sure that you don’t go scuba diving all by yourself and have an instructor or guide tell you what to do.
Scuba diving is an immensely popular tourist activity in Andaman. But do note that if you are diving for recreational purposes, the depth limit is around 30 to 40 meters. It means that you can go up to 40 meters deep. But if you’re game for some more, you can also dive in to see the sharks in action. In this activity, you would be locked in a cage, which goes into the shark zone. But rest assured that it is safe as it is a steel cage.
Popular Places for Scuba Diving in Andaman
The Andaman Islands have plenty of scuba diving spots where tourists can go to enjoy the deep sea. So, if you are planning to visit the island, these are some places where you can delve into the activity.
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
- The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is yet another one of the most popular spots for scuba diving in Andaman.
- The marine park is in Port Blair and consists of a vibrant school of fish and a vast coral reef with over 50 types of corals.
The Lighthouse at Neil Island
- The Lighthouse is yet another beautiful spot for tourists looking to enjoy some scuba diving. It is a quite a popular destination among novice divers.
- It is open throughout the year to anyone who’s looking for some diving action. Divers also get to enjoy tons of coral reefs and different schools of fishes like trigger fish, puffer fish, unicorn fish and more.
Seduction Point at Havelock Island
- Seduction Point, another intense tourist attraction for scuba divers, consists of rocks and a sea of marine lives. As an unexplored region of the island, even veteran divers would be mesmerized at what they can find here.
The Aquarium at Havelock Island
- The Aquarium lies to the southwest of Havelock Island and is a treat for children. It consists of colourful fish of different kinds as well as a scuba diving spot, although it is meant only for amateurs because of the soft currents.
Barracuda City at Havelock Island
- Barracuda City is known for its marine beauty and consists of different kinds of fish that come in all shapes and sizes. The divers can feast their eyes upon the magnificent corals that are present throughout the island.
- Do be careful when diving at Barracuda city as the sea depths found in this region may not be suitable for novice divers.
Safety Precautions
Over the years, scuba diving has become an immensely popular activity among tourists. Although it is generally safe, you should still know that it does not come without risks. So, when scuba diving in the Andaman Islands, you should take all the necessary precautions and safety measures. More importantly, you should call for an expert diver to be with you if you are a rookie or doing it for leisure.
Although you can never take all the precautions, here are a few measures that you can choose to secure yourself.
- As stated earlier, scuba diving is a risk-prone activity. So, you may need specialized training before you can do it. Many scuba diving schools help train people by teaching them not only to dive but also emphasize on various other factors related to safety.
- For instance, they teach you how to conduct a Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent (CESA), disconnect your pressure infiltrator hose, and a host of other such things.
- Always scuba dive with a guide or a buddy.
- Check if your equipment is working as intended before you dive in.
- Do not consume alcohol before going in for a dive.
- Abide to instructions provided by your guide. Stick to the designated area for scuba diving.
- It is not advisable to fly in an airplane immediately after a scuba diving experience. Wait for a minimum of 12 hours before taking a flight.
Scuba diving in Andaman can be loads of fun. But be sure to stay safe when you dive. Also, keep yourself physically fit and healthy and get yourself checked in case you experience physical discomfort post your dive. Overall scuba diving can be an enriching experience in Andaman.
