Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Places to Dive in North Andaman
- Professional Diving Schools and Courses
- Tourist Circuits for Divers
- Activities Beyond Diving
- Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Safety, Permits, and Environmental Guidelines
- Nearby Getaways
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman—comprising Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur, Long Island, and the remote islands off the archipelago’s northern arc—offers some of India’s least-crowded reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and pristine coral gardens. If you’re searching for professional diving schools in North Andaman, this guide explains where to find certified operators, which courses to choose, what it costs, how to plan logistics across remote islands, and the best time to go.
Expect warm waters, fewer boats, and a wilder feel than the south. The trade-off is longer travel times and seasonal operations—making good planning, reputable schools, and safety-first decisions essential.
Top Places to Dive in North Andaman
Long Island & Lalaji Bay
- Why dive: Sheltered bays, healthy hard coral, macro life; a gentler introduction to North Andaman’s conditions.
- Typical profile: Reefs and slopes; occasional mild currents; great for beginners and relaxed fun dives.
- Good to know: Access by government ferries; some schools run seasonal bases or bring mobile teams here.
Diglipur (Kalipur, Aerial Bay, Ross & Smith)
- Why dive: Remote outer reef walls and channels; occasional pelagic sightings; superb snorkel at Craggy Island.
- Typical profile: Drift dives when currents run; best for certified divers with recent experience.
- Good to know: Turtle nesting beaches nearby are protected—observe local regulations.
Mayabunder & North Passage
- Why dive: Access to calm, clear waters around islets; good visibility windows; mangrove-fringed scenery topside.
- Typical profile: Patch reefs and gentle slopes; good mixed-level options in season.
Rangat
- Why dive: Gateway to Long Island and quieter reefs; macro and coral exploration when conditions align.
- Typical profile: Variable visibility; best targeted with local knowledge and flexible plans.
Remote Expeditions (Advanced)
- Highlights: Volcanic seamounts and offshore banks (e.g., Barren Island expeditions typically run from Havelock/Port Blair in the right weather window).
- Note: Advanced certifications, excellent buoyancy, and strong operators are mandatory. Departures and permits vary by season and sea state.
Professional Diving Schools and Courses
What “Professional” Means in North Andaman
- Recognized agencies: PADI and SSI certifications are standard.
- Safety: Oxygen kit on boat, well-maintained compressors and gear, radio/phone contact, emergency plans, proper student-to-instructor ratios.
- Standards: Medical screening, dive briefings, and adherence to no-touch, no-chase marine practices.
Courses and Experiences
- Try Dive/Discover Scuba (no cert): 1–2 shallow dives with instructor; great for first-timers.
- Open Water Diver: 3–4 days; globally recognized certification to 18 m.
- Advanced Adventurer/Advanced Open Water: 2–3 days; deep, navigation, and specialty dives.
- Rescue + EFR: 2–3 days; elevates safety and problem-solving skills.
- Specialties: Peak buoyancy, Nitrox, Drift, Digital Imaging (availability varies).
Estimated Diving Costs (indicative)
- Try Dive: INR 5,000–8,500 per person (all gear included).
- Fun Dives (certified): INR 3,800–6,000 per dive; discounts for multi-dive packages.
- Open Water Course: INR 22,000–32,000; Advanced: INR 20,000–28,000; Rescue+EFR: INR 28,000–38,000.
- Remote expedition surcharges (fuel/permits): add INR 8,000–25,000+ per diver per day, when applicable.
- Note: North Andaman logistics can raise costs versus Havelock/Neil. Always confirm inclusions (boat, instructor ratio, study materials, certification fees).
Where to Find Professional Schools in North Andaman
- Long Island & Diglipur: Seasonal, resort-linked dive desks and visiting instructor teams operate in peak months (generally Nov–Apr). Contact your accommodation in advance to verify if a certified PADI/SSI instructor will be on-site during your dates.
- Mayabunder/Rangat: Availability varies; schools may set up temporary bases or run day boats from nearby hubs in season.
- Reliable gateways for North Andaman expeditions: Established Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) operators often run advanced trips to northern sites when seas allow. Examples include experienced schools based in Havelock and Neil that can advise on North Andaman charters.
- How to verify professionalism: Check the PADI/SSI dive center locator for “Diglipur,” “Long Island,” and surrounding areas; confirm current instructor credentials, insurance, oxygen carriage, and emergency protocols.
Specific, up-to-date names of active North Andaman-based schools can change seasonally. Verify current operations directly before you book.
Tourist Circuits for Divers
5–7 Days: North Andaman Snapshot
- Day 1: Fly to Port Blair; overnight.
- Day 2: Early road/ferry to Rangat; connect to Long Island; afternoon shore check-dive.
- Day 3: Long Island boat dives; beach time at Lalaji Bay.
- Day 4: Transfer to Diglipur; sunset at Ross & Smith sandbar.
- Day 5: Diglipur dives or guided snorkeling at Craggy Island; turtle watch with permits (seasonal).
- Day 6–7: Return to Port Blair; buffer day before flight (no diving 18–24 hours prior to flying).
8–10 Days: Advanced North Andaman + Expedition Option
- Days 1–2: Port Blair to Long Island; warm-up dives.
- Days 3–5: Diglipur for channels/walls; optional Saddle Peak trek rest day.
- Days 6–8: If seas/permits allow, arrange an expedition day with an established school (often from Havelock/Port Blair) to remote northern reefs; keep at least one no-dive buffer day after.
- Days 9–10: Overland return; cultural/food exploration in Port Blair.
Activities Beyond Diving
- Saddle Peak Trek (Diglipur): Highest point in Andamans; panoramic vistas.
- Ross & Smith Islands: Twin islands linked by a sandbar; superb swimming and beach walks.
- Craggy Island Snorkeling: Clear, shallow reefs on calm days.
- Mangrove Cruises (Mayabunder): Quiet backwaters and birdlife.
- Turtle Nesting (Kalipur/Ramnagar, Oct–Mar): Observe only with permits and trained guides.
Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Subhash Mela (Diglipur, Jan): Local fair and cultural programs; dates vary.
- Island Tourism Festival (Port Blair, usually Jan): If transiting via the capital.
- Natural events: Turtle nesting season (Oct–Mar); peak underwater visibility (Mar–May).
Best Time to Visit
- October–May: Main diving season in North Andaman.
- March–May: Typically the calmest seas and best visibility (15–30+ m), warm water (27–30°C).
- June–September: Southwest monsoon; many northern operations pause; rough seas and rain.
- Note: Northerly swells and winds can affect Diglipur/Mayabunder mid-winter; plan buffer days.
How to Reach
- Fly: Daily flights to Port Blair (IXZ) from major Indian cities.
- Road to North Andaman:
- Port Blair → Rangat: 6–8 hours by road.
- Port Blair → Mayabunder: 8–10 hours.
- Port Blair → Diglipur: 10–12 hours.
- Note: ATR road timing rules apply across protected stretches; carry ID and start early.
- Ferries: Government ferries link Port Blair/Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur; Long Island is usually accessed via Rangat (Yeratta Jetty). Schedules change—check locally a day prior.
- Private transport: Pre-booked cabs or shared jeeps reduce transit time; confirm ferry connections if heading to Long Island the same day.
Accommodation Options
- Long Island: Simple beach stays and eco-lodges near Lalaji Bay; limited inventory; book ahead.
- Diglipur:
- Budget: Basic guesthouses near Kalipur/Aerial Bay.
- Mid-range: Resort-style rooms close to beaches; on-site dining; some arrange diving.
- Mayabunder/Rangat: Government lodges and family-run hotels; convenient for ferry hops.
- Typical price ranges (per night, double): Budget INR 1,500–3,000; Mid-range INR 3,500–7,000; Higher-end INR 7,000–15,000 (limited in the far north).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Food: Fresh seafood thalis, coconut-rich curries, seasonal fruits (banana, pineapple, mango). Vegetarian meals available at most lodges.
- Shopping: Very limited in the far north; for handicrafts/spices, plan purchases in Port Blair.
- Culture: A melting pot of settlers from mainland India; respect local customs and protected areas. Photography restrictions may apply near sensitive zones.
Estimated Trip Costs
- Daily (without diving):
- Budget traveler: INR 2,500–4,000 (room, meals, local transport).
- Mid-range: INR 5,000–8,000.
- Diving add-on:
- 2-fun-dive day: +INR 8,000–12,000.
- Open Water course (3–4 days): +INR 22,000–32,000 total.
- Remote expedition: +INR 8,000–25,000+ per diver per day (when offered).
- Transfers: Private cab Port Blair→Diglipur one-way ~INR 9,000–14,000; ferries are cheaper but slower.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Choose sheltered sites (Long Island) and consider a private boat for flexibility.
- Try dives: Morning slots often have calmer seas; ensure minimum age and health checks.
Honeymooners
- Split time between North Andaman’s quiet beaches and a night or two in Havelock for dining/spa options.
- Arrange sunset picnics at Ross & Smith; schedule at least one no-activity buffer day.
Friends/Adventure Divers
- Arrive current-ready: recent dives, SMB use, and drift practice help on channels/walls.
- Plan for flexibility: Keep spare days for weather-dependent remote runs.
Safety, Permits, and Environmental Guidelines
- Permits: Ross & Smith require entry permits obtained locally; some zones are off-limits—follow Forest Department guidance.
- Health: The hyperbaric chamber is in Port Blair; dive conservatively and consider DAN-style insurance.
- Gear: Bring personal mask/snorkel, reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard; cash for remote payments.
- Wildlife: Do not touch/harass marine life; no anchoring on reefs; avoid night beach visits in turtle nesting season unless guided.
- Respect protected areas and communities along the ATR; no photography in restricted stretches.
Nearby Getaways
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): Year-round professional schools, dining, and classic reefs; useful for advanced training and expeditions.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil): Relaxed vibe, scenic beaches, beginner-friendly diving.
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mangrove creeks (non-diving day trip from the southbound route).
FAQs
Q: Are there year-round professional diving schools based in North Andaman?
A: Seasonal operations are common in Long Island, Mayabunder, and Diglipur. Year-round, most professional schools base in Havelock/Neil and arrange northern trips when conditions allow. Always confirm current availability for your dates.
Q: Which certification agencies operate in North Andaman?
A: PADI and SSI are the most common. Verify your chosen school’s current agency affiliation and instructor credentials.
Q: Is North Andaman suitable for beginners?
A: Yes—especially sheltered sites around Long Island and select reefs near Mayabunder in calm weather. For consistent beginner operations, many travelers train in Havelock, then add a North Andaman leg for quieter reefs.
Q: Can I dive Barren Island from North Andaman?
A: Barren Island expeditions are typically staged from Havelock or Port Blair with highly experienced operators, subject to permits and sea conditions. Advanced certification and recent dives are required.
Q: What visibility and water temperatures should I expect?
A: Water is usually 27–30°C. Visibility ranges 10–30+ m, peaking around March–May. Currents and swell can affect northern sites—plan with buffer days.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards divers with solitude, healthy reefs, and a strong sense of adventure. Professional diving schools operate seasonally across Long Island, Mayabunder, and Diglipur, with established year-round hubs in Havelock/Neil supporting advanced northern expeditions. Time your visit between October and May, verify operator credentials, build buffer days for weather, and you’ll find the remotest corners of the Andamans both accessible and unforgettable.
