Why Havelock Island is Perfect for Your First Scuba Diving Experience

If you are a beginner, then scuba diving in Havelock Island (now known as Swaraj Dweep officially) can be a much more amazing experience than expected. The number of first-timers has skyrocketed over the last few years when it comes to scuba diving in the Andaman Islands. If you are diving for the first time, then you may feel scared at first, which is absolutely obvious. But let us assure you, it is not as dangerous as you imagine it to be. Even if you are a non-swimmer, you need not stress at all. The best thing is that you are not alone. There have been many first-timers who were afraid initially but now, are pursuing it seriously because it becomes them so much joy!  

One of the most-loved travel destinations in the Andamans is Havelock Island. It is located in South Andaman and you can easily reach there from Port Blair, the capital city. The island is the hub of enthralling water sports and scuba diving is the best among them. In this article, we will explain why Swaraj Dweep is the best scuba diving destination in India, especially if you are a beginner or non-swimmer

Scuba diving in Havelock Island for beginners

If you are someone who wants to learn new things in life, then you pretty well know that making an effort to leave your comfort zone will come across as scary in the beginning. This is completely normal. Feeling scared before doing something for the first time is obvious. But make sure that you don’t give in to that fear. Always remember that what you imagine in your head is much worse than what it actually is in reality. There is only one way to emerge victorious– stand up for yourself and just do it!

You are in trustworthy hands when it comes to scuba diving for beginners in Havelock Island. Here, the diving instructors are extremely helpful and welcoming. Along with introducing you to this incredible activity, they will prepare you for your first experience as well. In addition to that, the marine life here is just awesome! The fish, corals, etc. in its azure waters are something that you may not find anywhere else in the country

Initial requirements for scuba diving in Havelock Island for beginners

If you wish to do scuba diving, you will need the following:

Medical fitness declaration- Everyone who is going to dive has to submit a medical declaration stating they are fit to dive. If there is any issue, then you have to declare it before going underwater.   

Scuba diving equipment- It comprises majorly the following:

• Diving suit
• Flipper boots
• Oxygen cylinder kit
• Belt of weights
• Face mask
• Mouth pipe
• Regulator
• Pressure gauze 
• Buoyancy control device

You are good to go after having all this.

Top diving sites in Havelock Island

Swaraj Dweep is counted among the top locations for scuba diving in India. The island has a number of great diving spots. Its rich marine life is something that is rare to be found anywhere else. The best scuba diving spots in Havelock Island are as follows: 

• Barracuda City
• Turtle Bay
• Seduction Point
• Mac Point
• Aquarium
• The Wall
• Minerva Ledge
• Pilot Reef
• Lighthouse
• M4

• Jackson’s Bar
• Jonny George
• Broken Ledge
• Dicksons Pinnacle
• Whitehouse Rock
• MV Mars
• Red Pillar
• The Slope
• Purple Haze
• S.S. Inchkett

Where should I book my first scuba dive?

Havelock Island is the hub of water activities, and scuba diving is the most enthralling one. That's why the island is dotted with a number of dive shops from where you can rent equipment and go for dive. However, if it is your first time, then we would highly recommend that you pick a PADI-certified dive shop

The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) is a global diver training organization and recreational diving membership. Picking a PADI-certified center means getting to dive with a highly experienced diver. They have vast years of rich experience and that’s why they can help you with having the most incredible first dive.

Aqua Nomads in Havelock Island is a 5-star PADI facility that is well-known for offering excellent scuba diving experiences to first-timers. When in the Andaman Islands, make sure to book your dive with them to get complete worth for your money. And in case you have dived before and want to pursue your diving passion, then you can also take any course here to upgrade your scuba skills.   

Reaching Havelock Island

You can reach this island easily via sea. Private and government ferries operate from Port Blair and Neil Island, which are neighboring islands. Booking from private ferries is stress-free and you don’t need to wait in long queues. These ferries are the lifelines of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by beginner divers in Havelock Island

Before we go any further, first let’s address the commonly asked questions by most first-time divers on Havelock Island.

Question 1: Can anyone learn to dive in Havelock Islands?

Answer: Absolutely! Anyone can learn scuba diving on this island. Even children as young as ten years are allowed to dive. All you have to do is to maintain a minimum standard of fitness and follow the instructions of your trainer. 

Question 2: How will I communicate with my instructor under the water?

Answer: One can communicate all the important things under the water. Since you are a beginner, you will be taught about the underwater signals before going for your dive.

Question 3: Do I need to have a prior experience before scuba diving on Havelock Island?

Answer: No, you don’t need any prior experience or certification for diving in the shallow waters of Swaraj Dweep. But if you want to pursue diving with more focus and for the long term, then go for diving courses. These will help you a lot.

Question 4: I am a non-swimmer. Can I still go scuba dive in the Andaman Islands?

Answer: Yes, you can scuba dive even if you don’t know about swimming. When you are under the water, you are not required to swim; you just need to glide.  

Question 5: What is the basic equipment needed for scuba diving?

Answer: You will need the following things:

• Snorkel
• Mask
• Wet suit
• Fins
• Buoyancy control device
• Oxygen cylinder
• Pressure gauge
• Regulator

Question 6: Do I need to carry my own scuba equipment?

Answer: No, the diving shop with which you have booked your dive will provide you with everything.

Question 7: What are the best diving sites in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

Answer: The Andaman Islands are the best location for scuba diving across India. Its azure and clear waters offer great visibility and you can spot so many incredible fish and colorful corals. Scuba diving can be done on Neil Island, North Bay, Port Blair, and Havelock Island. However, Havelock Island is the most sought-after destination when it comes to exploring the marine world. 

Question 8: Which is the best place to scuba dive for beginners in the Andaman Islands?

Answer: Havelock Island is the best location for scuba diving, especially for beginners. The island is dotted with a number of PADI-certified dive shops which means that you will get the best and the most experienced and reliable instructors. You will get the undivided attention of your instructor and you can clarify your doubts without any hassle. Moreover, this island has rich marine life. 

Question 9: How will get underwater pictures and videos while scuba diving?

Answer: Your instructor will click the pictures and take videos of your dive. He will hand them over to you later. You can invest in an underwater camera once you become an experienced diver.   

Question 10: Any special tips for scuba diving for beginners on Havelock Island?

Answer: Tell your instructor that it is your first diving experience and needs to take extra care of yourself under the water. Ask him to be patient with you. A cooperative instructor will boost your confidence and thus, you will have an amazing first diving experience. Having confidence under the water is the key. Just follow the instructions of your instructor and enjoy the dive!

Question 11: Will it be safe if I go scuba diving on Havelock Island?

Answer: If you enjoy sound health and do not have any medical complications, then you can go scuba diving. You will have to attend a training session with licensed divers before you dive into the ocean. The best quality scuba equipment will be given to you. Moreover, an expert trainer will accompany you throughout your dive.

Question 12: When should I go scuba diving in Swaraj Dweep?

Answer: The duration between November and February is the best time to go scuba diving on the island. During this time, the water temperature is the most pleasant. We would highly recommend booking your slot in advance with Aqua Nomads if you want to avoid any last-minute chaos.