Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Diving Conditions and Notable Night-Dive Sites
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Tips for Night Diving
- Traveler-Specific Advice
- Safety, Permits and Responsible Travel
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Night diving in North Andaman is where the archipelago’s wild, untouched character truly reveals itself. As the sun dips behind Saddle Peak and the sea turns to inky glass, the fringing reefs around Diglipur, Kalipur, and Ross & Smith Islands awaken: octopus prowl, basket stars unfurl, and bioluminescence twinkles with every fin kick. This is a remote, less-visited corner of the Andamans, and its night dives reward patient, eco-conscious explorers with rare macro encounters and serene, star-lit descents.
History and Importance
The northern Andamans have long been recognized for their biodiverse reefs, sheltered bays, and relatively low diver traffic compared with popular southern islands. The area’s remoteness has helped preserve coral bommies, seagrass beds, and sandy flats that transform after dark into hunting grounds for cephalopods, crustaceans, and nocturnal reef fishes. Adjacent terrestrial protections like Saddle Peak National Park underscore the region’s conservation value, while seasonal turtle nesting at nearby beaches adds ecological importance. Sustainable night diving here highlights nocturnal reef behavior and encourages responsible tourism that supports local livelihoods in Diglipur and surrounding villages.
Best Time to Visit
- Overall diving season: October to May.
- Calmest seas and most reliable conditions: November to March.
- Bioluminescence: Typically stronger on darker nights around the new moon; visibility can be slightly reduced at night but the sparkle effect is enhanced.
- Avoid: Peak monsoon (June to August) when swells, wind, and rain can cancel trips, and inter-island transport is less reliable.
- Water temperature: Approximately 27–30°C year-round; a 3 mm wetsuit suits most divers for extended night bottom times.
Diving Conditions and Notable Night-Dive Sites
Typical Night Conditions
- Depths: Commonly 6–18 m for night profiles, lingering over sand patches, bommies, and gentle slopes.
- Visibility: Often 8–15 m at night (variable by season and tides).
- Currents: Mild to moderate; operators time entries around slack tide when possible.
- What you might see: Octopus and cuttlefish hunting, decorator and sponge crabs, mantis shrimp, feather and basket stars, Spanish dancer nudibranchs, hunting lionfish, morays, sleeping parrotfish, and flashes of bioluminescence when lights go off briefly.
Notable Areas (operator- and weather-dependent)
- Kalipur Reef: Easy access from shore/short boat rides; macro-rich rubble and coral heads ideal for slow, focused night dives.
- Aerial Bay Fringing Reef (near Diglipur Jetty): Gentle profiles with sandy interludes where crustaceans roam after dark.
- Lamiya Bay: Sheltered stretches with bommies attracting nocturnal invertebrates; navigation practice recommended.
- Ross & Smith Outer Reef: Weather-permitting boat run; clearer water and occasional pelagic fly-bys, with sand patches for bioluminescent twinkles during light-out moments.
Note: Exact sites vary by operator, tide, visibility, and permits. Night dives typically require prior day dives on the same reef for familiarization.
Top Things to Do
In and Around the Night Dives
- Classic Night Dive: Slow macro-focused circuit with primary and backup torches; watch reef life switch to nocturnal mode.
- Fluoro Night Dive (if available): UV lights and barrier filters reveal corals and critters fluorescing in vivid hues.
- Bioluminescence Pause: Coordinate a brief “lights-out” with your guide to see phytoplankton sparkle with each movement.
- Underwater Photography Session: Master focusing and light positioning for shy nocturnal subjects.
Daytime Complements
- Day Diving: Explore the same sites in daylight to learn topography before returning at night.
- Snorkeling Ross & Smith: Enjoy the iconic sandbar and shallow reef gardens in calm seas.
- Kalipur & Ramnagar Beaches: Gentle lagoons, sunrise/sunset walks, and seasonal turtle nesting (with permits and guided monitoring only).
- Saddle Peak Trek: Summit the Andamans’ highest point for sweeping views over reefs and forest.
- Alfred Caves & Mud Volcano (Diglipur region): Unique geologic and limestone formations explored in daylight.
Nearby Attractions
- Ross & Smith Islands: Twin islands joined by a sandbar; excellent for day trips and snorkeling.
- Saddle Peak National Park: Dense tropical forest with marked trails and birdlife.
- Kalipur Beach: Quiet bay with local eateries; known for turtle nesting seasons.
- Ramnagar Beach: Golden sands and shallow reef flats for casual snorkelers.
- Diglipur Mud Volcano: A rare natural feature within a short drive of town.
How to Reach
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Daily connections from major Indian cities.
- Port Blair to Diglipur (North Andaman):
- By Road: 10–12 hours (approx. 300+ km) via the Andaman Trunk Road with checkpoints; scenic but long day. No stopping or photography in reserve stretches.
- By Ferry: Government and occasional private ferries connect Port Blair to Aerial Bay/Diglipur on limited schedules (8–10 hours, sea- and season-dependent). Book ahead and verify timings locally.
- By Helicopter/Charter: Limited seats and weather-dependent; inquire in Port Blair for current schedules and fares.
- Local Transfers: From Diglipur town to Kalipur, Lamiya Bay, or Aerial Bay Jetty by taxi or hired scooter. Boats to Ross & Smith depart from Aerial Bay (subject to weather and permits).
- Fly-after-dive safety: Leave 18–24 hours between your last dive and any flight or high-altitude travel.
Accommodation Options
- Kalipur & Aerial Bay area: Beachside guesthouses and small resorts convenient for early/late dive logistics.
- Diglipur Town: Simple hotels with access to eateries and markets; slightly longer drives to jetties/beaches.
- Price range (indicative per night for two): Budget: INR 1,500–3,000; Midrange: INR 3,500–7,000; Boutique: INR 7,500–10,000+ (limited inventory, book in advance).
- What to expect: Basic amenities, intermittent mobile data, occasional power cuts. Confirm 24/7 electricity and early/late meal options if diving at night.
Estimated Costs
- Night Dive (certified divers): INR 5,000–9,000 per dive including guide, boat/shore logistics, tanks, weights; full gear rental may add INR 800–1,500.
- Fluoro Night Add-on: INR 1,000–2,500 (UV light and filters), where offered.
- Day Dives: INR 3,500–6,500 per dive depending on site and inclusions.
- Transport (Port Blair–Diglipur): Bus INR 800–1,500; private car INR 12,000–18,000 one-way; ferry fares vary by class and season.
- Meals: INR 300–800 per person per meal in local eateries/resort restaurants.
- Sample 3D/2N diver budget (per person, excluding flights):
- Budget: INR 12,000–20,000 (1 night dive + 2 day dives, bus, budget stay, simple meals).
- Midrange: INR 25,000–45,000 (2 night dives + 3–4 day dives, mixed transport, midrange stay).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Food: Fresh seafood thalis, fish fry, crab curry, and coconut-based dishes. Try bananas, betel nut products, and seasonal fruits at local stalls.
- Shopping: Small markets sell spices, handicrafts, and island-made snacks. Avoid purchasing shells, coral, or turtle products—these are illegal and harmful to reefs.
- Culture: The population is a mosaic of settlers from mainland India; respect local customs. Tribal reserves exist in parts of the Andamans—never attempt visits or photography in restricted areas.
Tips for Night Diving
- Certification: Most operators require Advanced Open Water or a Night Adventure Dive. First-time night divers can enroll in a course.
- Gear: Primary torch (1000+ lumens) and a compact backup; tank marker light; surface marker buoy (SMB); cutting tool; audible signal device.
- Light etiquette: Keep beams low and indirect; avoid blinding marine life. Use red focus lights for skittish critters if available.
- Navigation: Agree on turn pressures, max depth/time, and separation protocols. Practice compass use and maintain buddy proximity.
- Buoyancy: Stay off the reef; hover over sand patches when stopping for photos. Control fin kicks to prevent silt-outs.
- Photography: Pre-set camera, use diffused light, and be patient—behavioral moments are the reward at night.
- Conservation: No touching, chasing, or feeding wildlife. Use reef-safe habits and keep secure hose routing.
Traveler-Specific Advice
Families
- Night dives are for certified, confident divers (minimum age depends on agency; check with your operator).
- Non-diving family members can enjoy evening beach walks, stargazing, or early-morning snorkels.
- Pack insect repellent, light sweaters for breezes, and dry bags for boat rides.
Honeymooners
- Opt for private night dives or small groups for a quieter experience.
- Time dives around new moon for bioluminescent moments and romantic, star-filled skies.
- Combine with a Ross & Smith day trip and a Saddle Peak sunrise trek.
Friends/Groups
- Pre-book multiple tanks and coordinate tide windows for consecutive night dives.
- Consider split teams (photographers vs. explorers) to keep pacing comfortable.
- Bring spare batteries and a shared tool/spares kit.
Safety, Permits and Responsible Travel
- Medical & Insurance: Secure dive insurance that covers remote evacuations and hyperbaric treatment. The primary chamber is in Port Blair; dive conservatively in North Andaman’s remote setting.
- Operator Standards: Choose centers with oxygen kits, first aid, radio/phone contact, and night-dive briefings tailored to local sites.
- Permits: Standard tourist travel to Diglipur/Kalipur is generally permitted; some beaches, sandbars, or nesting sites may require day permits or have restricted hours. Always check locally.
- Legal & Ethics: No collection of shells/corals; no drone use without permission; respect signage and rangers, especially during turtle nesting.
- Weather: Night dives may be rescheduled due to wind/tide. Stay flexible and build buffer days into your plan.
FAQs
Q: Do I need Advanced Open Water to do a night dive in North Andaman?
A: Most operators require Advanced Open Water or a Night Adventure dive completed with an instructor. If you’re Open Water certified, you can often add a training dive to qualify.
Q: Will I see bioluminescence on every night dive?
A: Bioluminescence is natural and variable. It’s most noticeable on dark, moonless nights in calm water, but intensity changes with plankton levels and conditions.
Q: Are sharks common on night dives here?
A: Small reef sharks may occasionally pass by, but most night encounters focus on macro life like crustaceans, cephalopods, and nocturnal reef fish. Maintain calm, respectful distances with all wildlife.
Q: What exposure protection should I use?
A: Water is typically 27–30°C; a 3 mm wetsuit works for most. If you get cold easily on longer night dives, consider a 5 mm or add a hooded vest.
Q: Is night diving suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, if you train first. Many shops offer a Night Adventure dive or full Night Specialty course with a guide, starting on easy, shallow sites.
Conclusion
Night diving in North Andaman blends remote-island calm with vibrant nocturnal reef life. With careful timing around tides and moon phase, patient observation, and responsible techniques, divers are rewarded with intimate macro encounters, glowing plankton, and quiet drifts beneath starry skies. Pair your night dives with low-key beaches, forest hikes, and simple island hospitality for a well-rounded, nature-forward escape in the Andamans’ north.
