Table of Contents
- Introduction: Scuba Diving in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Andaman
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Dive in Havelock
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Essential Tips for Diving
- Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction: Scuba Diving in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Andaman
Havelock Island, officially Swaraj Dweep, is the Andamans’ blue-ribbon dive destination—turquoise lagoons, coral gardens teeming with reef fish, and offshore pinnacles that wow certified divers. Whether you’re a first-time diver or chasing bucket-list sites like Dixon’s Pinnacle and Johnny’s Gorge, Havelock pairs world-class underwater scenes with powdery beaches and slow-island charm.
This guide covers the best time to dive, top sites, costs, how to get there, where to stay, and smart tips for a safe, eco-friendly Andaman scuba holiday.
History and Importance
Once a quiet coconut-and-paddy island, Havelock grew into India’s premier recreational diving hub in the early 2000s as PADI/SSI centers set up operations. Its underwater landscape—hard corals, soft corals, sandy patches, and volcanic rock—nurtures a dazzling variety of marine life: clownfish, batfish, sweetlips, humphead parrotfish, turtles, rays, and occasional reef sharks.
- Environmental significance: The reefs act as natural breakwaters and biodiversity hotspots. Many stretches are now monitored by local dive operators and initiatives that promote reef-safe practices.
- Cultural note: Havelock was renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018. Indigenous reserves across the archipelago remain protected; visitors must respect designated tourism zones.
Best Time to Dive in Havelock
- Peak season: November to April – calmer seas, better visibility (15–30 m at offshore sites), minimal rain.
- Good shoulder months: October and May – expect occasional showers, variable vis.
- Monsoon: Late May/June to September – choppier seas, frequent rain, and reduced visibility; some trips may be cancelled.
- Water temperature: ~26–29°C year-round; a 3 mm shorty or rash guard usually suffices.
Top Things to Do
For First-Timers and Non-Swimmers
- Try Dive (DSD): A supervised shore or boat dive to ~6–12 m, often at sites like Nemo Reef, Aquarium, or Lighthouse (conditions permitting). No prior experience needed.
- Underwater photos/videos: Add-on media packages capture your first bubbles.
For Certified Divers
- Dixon’s Pinnacle & Johnny’s Gorge: Signature sites with schooling barracuda, trevally, and the occasional reef shark; moderate currents.
- The Wall, Pilot Reef, Mac Point: Great for colorful coral, macro critters, turtles, and rays.
- Multi-dive day trips: Two-tank boat dives maximize offshore site chances and visibility.
Specialty and Advanced Experiences
- Night dive at Lighthouse: Encounter hunting lionfish, crustaceans, and biofluorescence (for certified divers).
- Courses: PADI/SSI Open Water, Advanced, Nitrox, Peak Performance Buoyancy, and Underwater Photography are widely offered.
Snorkeling and Sea Walk
- Snorkeling: Clear, shallow patches around Elephant Beach (access by boat/trek) can be excellent on calm days.
- Sea walk: Helmet-walking at Elephant Beach for non-swimmers seeking a taste of the reef without diving.
Beyond the Bubbles
- Bioluminescence kayaking: On dark, calm nights, watch tiny plankton light up your paddle strokes.
- Mangrove kayaking: Dawn or dusk paddles through serene channels.
- Beach-hopping: Radhanagar (No. 7) for sunsets; Kalapathar for moody mornings.
Nearby Attractions
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Famous for silken sand and fiery sunsets.
- Elephant Beach: Snorkeling hub; reach by speedboat or forest trail (trail access may vary seasonally).
- Kalapathar Beach: Black rocks, photogenic shores.
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Easy hop for day trips—Natural Bridge, Bharatpur Beach.
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail light-and-sound show, museums, and Aberdeen Bazaar.
How to Reach Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Direct flights from major Indian cities. Keep a buffer in case of weather delays.
- Ferries to Havelock: Government and private catamarans (e.g., 1.5–2.5 hours). Advance booking recommended, especially Nov–Apr.
- Local transport: Autos, taxis, rented scooters (helmet mandatory), and limited buses. Roads connect the main beaches and jetty.
Note: Ferry schedules can change due to weather. Plan buffers between flight and ferry connections.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury: Beachfront eco-resorts near Radhanagar or Govind Nagar with private villas and in-house dive centers.
- Mid-range: Boutique cottages along Beach No. 5 (Vijaynagar) and No. 3 with AC rooms and cozy cafes.
- Budget: Guesthouses and hostels near Govind Nagar/jetty; clean rooms and scooter-friendly locations.
Location tips: Stay near your dive shop pick-up, factor in early start times, and consider sunset proximity (Radhanagar) if beach time is a priority.
Estimated Costs
- Try Dive (DSD): INR 3,000–6,500 per person (shore vs. boat, duration, photos).
- Certified Fun Dives: INR 3,500–5,500 per dive; two-tank trips ~INR 7,000–10,000.
- Courses: Open Water INR 22,000–35,000; Advanced INR 20,000–28,000; Nitrox add-on INR 800–1,500 per fill.
- Underwater Media: Photos/videos INR 500–1,500 per person.
- Ferries (Port Blair–Havelock): One-way INR 1,000–2,800 per adult (class/operator dependent).
- Stay (per night): Budget INR 1,500–3,000; Mid-range INR 4,000–9,000; Luxury INR 12,000–25,000+ (seasonal).
- Food: Local meals INR 200–400; cafes INR 300–800 per person.
- Scooter rental: INR 500–800/day + fuel.
Prices vary by season, demand, and inclusions (gear, boat fees, instructor ratios). Confirm what’s included before booking.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Seafood specials: Grilled fish, crab, and lobster when in season; simple, fresh flavors.
- Island bites: Fish curry with rice, coconut-laced veg, banana fritters, and tender coconut water.
- Diver-friendly cafes: Hearty breakfasts, smoothie bowls, and fresh bakes between dives.
Shopping
- Govind Nagar market: Souvenirs, beachwear, and basic supplies.
- Avoid: Corals, shells, and marine curios—buying/transporting them can be illegal and harms reefs.
- Better for variety: Aberdeen Bazaar (Port Blair) en route back.
Culture
- Communities: A mix of settlers from mainland India; warm island hospitality and a laid-back vibe.
- Responsible travel: Respect local customs, dress modestly in villages, keep beaches clean.
Essential Tips for Diving
- Book early in peak season: Lock in ferries, stays, and dive slots Nov–Apr.
- Health & safety: Fill dive medical forms honestly; consult your doctor for conditions like asthma or recent surgery.
- No-fly time: Allow 18–24 hours after your last dive before flying.
- Seasickness prep: Carry motion-sickness meds if prone; hydrate well.
- Eco practices: Do not touch/stand on corals, don’t feed fish, use reef-safe sunscreen or wear a rash guard.
- Insurance: Consider dive insurance covering evacuations and medicals.
- Connectivity & cash: Internet can be patchy; carry sufficient cash though ATMs exist. Digital payments work intermittently.
- Weather buffers: Monsoon or sudden squalls may cancel trips—plan spare days.
- Permits & access: Indians don’t need special permits for Havelock; foreigners must follow current advisories. Tribal reserves are strictly off-limits.
Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
Families
- Kids & diving: Most centers take children 10+ for junior programs; confirm age and comfort requirements.
- Gentle sites: Request calm, shallow reefs for first-timers; schedule dives in the morning when seas are calmer.
- Packing: Rash guards, spare towels, reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and snacks.
Honeymooners
- Stay: Choose sunset-friendly beaches and private cottages.
- Experiences: Private two-tank trips, sunset walks at Radhanagar, bioluminescence kayaking on new-moon nights.
- Photos: Opt for underwater photography during dives/snorkels.
Friends & Groups
- Bundle dives: Multi-dive packages reduce per-dive costs.
- Mobility: Rent scooters to beach-hop and reach cafes easily.
- Evenings: Casual beach shacks, stargazing, and game nights—Havelock is low-key after dark.
FAQs
Q: Can non-swimmers try scuba diving in Havelock?
A: Yes. Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) is designed for beginners, including non-swimmers, under close instructor supervision in calm water.
Q: Which are the best dive sites for certified divers?
A: Dixon’s Pinnacle, Johnny’s Gorge, The Wall, Pilot Reef, and Mac Point are standouts, chosen based on conditions and experience level.
Q: What visibility can I expect?
A: Typically 10–30 m. It’s best from November to April, with offshore pinnacles often offering clearer water.
Q: Is diving available during monsoon?
A: Some operations run limited dives, but weather and visibility are variable and trips may be cancelled. Plan buffers or visit in peak season for reliability.
Q: How many days should I plan for scuba in Havelock?
A: For a first-timer, 2–3 days allows a try dive and beach time. For certified divers, 4–5 days enables multiple two-tank trips and a rest day before flying.
Conclusion
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) delivers India’s most rewarding recreational diving—from gentle coral gardens for first-timers to dramatic pinnacles for seasoned divers. Time your visit between November and April for the best marine conditions, book reputable dive centers, and travel responsibly to protect these reefs. With laid-back beaches, clear lagoons, and immersive local experiences, Havelock is a complete Andaman dive getaway.
