Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance of Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Best Time to Visit for Adventure Sports
- Top Adventure Sports & Things to Do in Havelock Island
- How to Reach Havelock Island
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Tips for Visiting
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Havelock Island—officially Swaraj Dweep—is the adventure heart of the Andaman Islands. Think gin-clear lagoons, living coral reefs, powdery beaches, and a calendar that revolves around the tides. From world-class scuba diving and snorkelling to bioluminescence kayaking, parasailing, sea walking, and jet-skiing, adventure sports in Havelock Island blend tropical beauty with adrenaline in equal measure.
Whether you’re a first-time diver, a family seeking safe water fun, or friends chasing sunrise paddles and sunset sails, this guide covers when to go, what to do, how to get there, where to stay, and how much to budget—plus practical tips to keep your trip smooth and sustainable.
History & Importance of Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
Part of Ritchie’s Archipelago, Havelock was renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018 to honor Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. It rose to global fame when Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) was named among Asia’s best beaches, and it has since become India’s most coveted island escape for underwater adventures.
The island’s importance lies in its protected lagoons and fringing coral reefs, which host clownfish, turtles, reef sharks, and macro critters. Elephant Beach and Nemo Reef are ideal for beginners, while offshore sites draw certified divers to towering pinnacles and vibrant coral gardens. Responsible tourism is critical here—reefs are living ecosystems and the island’s economy relies on keeping them healthy.
Best Time to Visit for Adventure Sports
- Peak season (November–April): Calm seas, best visibility for diving (10–30 m), warm water (27–29°C), reliable departures for all water sports.
- Shoulder (October, May): Good for water sports, occasional showers, fewer crowds, better deals.
- Monsoon (June–September): Rough seas, frequent rain, many activities curtailed; diving and boat trips often limited or canceled for safety.
For bioluminescence kayaking, darker moon phases on clear nights give the best glow.
Top Adventure Sports & Things to Do in Havelock Island
1) Scuba Diving
Best for: Beginners and certified divers. Havelock is India’s marquee dive destination.
- Discover Scuba (no prior experience): Shallow reef dives at Nemo Reef or similar, full briefing, instructor ratio typically 1:1 or 1:2.
- Certification: PADI/SSI Open Water and Advanced Open Water courses available across multiple dive centers.
- Certified Fun Dives: Sites include Lighthouse, Aquarium (easy reefs), and advanced sites like Dixon’s Pinnacle and Johnny’s Gorge (conditions and experience permitting).
Safety: Choose licensed operators (PADI/SSI), insist on proper briefings and well-maintained gear. Never touch corals or marine life.
2) Snorkelling
Crystal-clear lagoons make snorkelling a highlight, especially around Elephant Beach and sheltered reefs. Look for calm mornings, wear a life jacket if unsure, and use a well-fitting mask to avoid seawater ingress.
3) Sea Walk
Walk on the seabed with an oxygen-fed helmet—ideal for non-swimmers who want close coral and fish encounters. Operates near Elephant Beach in suitable sea conditions.
4) Kayaking (including Bioluminescence)
Paddle through Havelock’s mangrove creeks by day, or join a bioluminescence night tour when plankton light up every stroke. Guides provide sit-on-top kayaks and safety gear; basic fitness and comfort around water are recommended.
5) Parasailing
Get an aerial view of the turquoise lagoon with boat-assisted parasailing. This is weather-dependent; operations pause in rough seas or high winds.
6) Jet Ski & Banana Boat Rides
Short, splashy rides in controlled zones, typically near Elephant Beach or select resort fronts. Great for quick thrills with friends and older kids.
7) Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Glide over glassy shallows on calm mornings. Instructors offer quick lessons; balance improves quickly for most beginners.
8) Forest Trek to Elephant Beach
A short, often muddy trail (around 2 km one way) through coastal forest opens onto vibrant reefs. Wear closed shoes; check if the trail is open and safe after rains.
9) Game Fishing
Half- and full-day charters target tuna, barracuda, and trevally. Ethical catch practices and adherence to local guidelines are encouraged.
10) Beach Time: Radhanagar & Kalapathar
Unwind post-adventure with sunset swims at Radhanagar and sunrise strolls at Kalapathar. Strong currents can occur—swim only in designated areas and heed lifeguards.
How to Reach Havelock Island
- By Air: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ, Veer Savarkar International Airport) from major Indian cities.
- By Ferry from Port Blair:
- Private catamarans: Makruzz, ITT Majestic, Sea Link (about 1.5–2 hours; advance booking recommended).
- Government ferries: Budget-friendly; limited seats; booking opens a few days prior at counters/official portals.
- From Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Frequent inter-island ferries (45–60 minutes).
Travel tips: Ferries can be weather-dependent; build buffer time. Carry printed e-tickets and a valid photo ID. Foreign nationals need a valid Indian visa; no Restricted Area Permit is required for Havelock for most nationalities (policies can change—check latest advisories).
Accommodation Options
- Budget (₹800–1,500 per night): Hostels and basic beach huts, mostly around Govind Nagar and Vijay Nagar.
- Mid-range (₹4,000–9,000): Cottage-style resorts with AC rooms, in-house eateries, easy beach access.
- Luxury (₹12,000–40,000+): Upscale beachfront villas and spa resorts near Radhanagar and secluded coves.
Areas to stay: Govind Nagar (dive shops, cafés), Vijay Nagar (quiet, lagoon-facing), Radhanagar (sunset and premium stays). Book early for winter months and holidays.
Estimated Costs
- Scuba Intro Dive: ₹3,500–6,500 per person (training, gear, short reef dive).
- Certified Fun Dive: ₹3,000–5,500 per dive (gear and boat typically included).
- Open Water Course: ₹24,000–35,000 (3–4 days).
- Snorkelling Trip (Elephant Beach): ₹1,000–2,000 per person.
- Sea Walk: ₹3,500–4,500 per person.
- Bioluminescence Kayak: ₹2,500–3,000 per person.
- Parasailing: ₹3,000–4,000 per person.
- Jet Ski/Banana Boat: ₹600–1,200 per ride.
- Game Fishing (half-day): ₹5,000–10,000+ per person depending on group size.
- Meals: ₹400–900 per person per meal (local eateries to beachfront cafés).
- Scooter rental: ₹500–700 per day + fuel.
Prices vary by season, operator, and inclusions. Always confirm exact inclusions (gear, photos/videos, transfers, taxes) before paying.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood thalis, grilled fish, prawn curries, and vegetarian South Indian and Bengali plates.
- Beach cafés serve smoothies, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty breakfasts for early divers.
- Stay hydrated; carry a refillable bottle—many cafés offer refills to reduce plastic waste.
Shopping
- Small island boutiques sell beachwear, bamboo straws, reef-safe sunscreen, and souvenirs.
- Avoid buying coral/shell products; collection of live or dead coral is illegal and harms reefs.
Culture
- Settler communities from mainland India bring a mix of Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil influences; English is widely understood in tourism zones.
- Dress modestly away from the beach, especially in villages. Ask before photographing people.
Nearby Attractions
- Elephant Beach: Hub for snorkelling, sea walk, and water sports.
- Radhanagar Beach: Iconic sunset spot; great for relaxed swims in calm zones.
- Kalapathar Beach: Quiet sunrise beach with black rock outcrops.
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Short ferry away; natural bridge, laid-back reefs.
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail, light & sound show, museums; gateway to other day trips like North Bay and Ross Island.
Tips for Visiting
- Safety first: Check flags and lifeguard instructions; heed weather advisories. Non-swimmers must wear life jackets for water activities.
- Reef-safe practices: Use mineral/reef-safe sunscreen, don’t stand on corals, maintain buoyancy, no touching/feeding marine life.
- Cash & connectivity: Limited ATMs and intermittent mobile data; carry cash for small vendors. Card acceptance varies.
- Health: Pack motion-sickness tablets for ferries, basic first aid, and insect repellent. Vinegar helps with minor jellyfish stings—ask your guide.
- Gear & clothing: Quick-dry wear, aqua shoes, dry bag, waterproof phone case, spare microfiber towel.
- Permits & drones: Standard tourist entry suffices; drone use typically requires permission—check current rules.
- Waste: Carry back all trash; choose refill stations and say no to single-use plastics.
Traveler-Specific Tips
For Families
- Pick morning slots for calm seas; opt for sheltered reefs like Nemo Reef.
- Confirm operator safety ratios, child-sized gear, and life jackets.
- Carry snacks, hats, and electrolyte drinks; schedule naps post-lunch heat.
For Honeymooners
- Time sunsets at Radhanagar and book a bioluminescence kayak on a moonless night.
- Choose lagoon-facing cottages for privacy and easy beach access.
- Consider a private snorkelling guide for unhurried reef time.
For Friends & Groups
- Bundle activities (e.g., intro dive + snorkel + kayak) for value.
- Rent scooters to beach-hop; carry rain covers in shoulder season.
- Split fishing or parasailing sessions to reduce per-person cost.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to know swimming to try scuba diving in Havelock?
A: No. Discover Scuba programs are designed for non-swimmers in shallow, calm waters with close instructor supervision. Comfortable water confidence helps, but swimming is not mandatory for beginner dives.
Q: When is the best time for diving and water sports?
A: November to April offers the calmest seas and best visibility. October and May are decent shoulder months. Monsoon (June–September) brings rough seas and frequent cancellations.
Q: Is bioluminescence guaranteed?
A: It depends on plankton density, weather, and moonlight. Dark, clear nights around new moon improve chances, but nature offers no guarantees.
Q: Are there permits required for foreigners to visit Havelock?
A: Most foreign nationals do not need a separate Restricted Area Permit for Havelock; a valid Indian visa and ID are required. Policies can change—verify current rules before travel.
Q: Which beaches are best for beginners?
A: Nemo Reef and areas around Elephant Beach are popular for beginner dives and snorkelling due to their shallow, protected reefs. Always go with licensed guides.
Conclusion
Havelock Island pairs calm, clear lagoons with rich coral reefs to deliver India’s most compelling lineup of water adventures. Time your trip between November and April, book trusted operators, and balance big thrills—scuba, parasailing, sea walks—with slow moments on Radhanagar’s sands and quiet mangrove paddles. With smart planning and reef-friendly habits, you’ll leave the island with unforgettable memories and intact ecosystems for those who follow.
