Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach Little Andaman
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Tips for Divers and Travelers
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Scuba diving in Little Andaman is for travelers who crave uncrowded reefs, raw island charm, and a sense of discovery. Far south of Port Blair, this remote island offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, world-class surf at Butler Bay, and coral gardens that see a fraction of the footfall compared to Havelock or Neil. Expect calm lagoons in season, healthy hard corals, macro critters, reef fish clouds, and the occasional turtle or reef shark—all with a serene, off-the-grid vibe.
History & Importance
Little Andaman is home to the Onge, one of the indigenous communities of the Andaman Islands. Much of the island is protected as tribal reserve and rainforest, underscoring its ecological and cultural sensitivity. The 2004 tsunami impacted the island, but many reefs have shown resilience and recovery. Diving here remains relatively under-the-radar, helping preserve marine life while offering experienced divers and nature lovers a quieter alternative to the busier northern islands.
Note: Visitors must respect protected areas and are not permitted to enter tribal reserves. Always stay within designated zones and follow local regulations.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak diving window: November to April (calmer seas, better visibility).
- Water temperature: Typically 27–30°C.
- Visibility: Often 10–25 m in season; can vary with weather and tides.
- Monsoon: May to September brings rough seas and heavy rain; ferry schedules may be disrupted and diving is limited.
Top Things to Do
Diving Highlights & What You’ll See
- Reefscapes: Fringing reefs and patch reefs off the western coast (including around Butler Bay) with healthy hard and some soft corals.
- Marine life: Reef fish schools, snappers, fusiliers, batfish, stingrays, turtles; occasional encounters with reef sharks and pelagics in the right conditions.
- Photography: Good macro opportunities (nudibranchs, shrimps, crabs) plus wide-angle coral scenes when visibility is clear.
- Conditions: Generally mild to moderate currents; site choices depend heavily on daily weather and swell.
Courses & Certifications
- Try Dives/Discover Scuba Diving (for beginners) in sheltered bays during calm conditions.
- Open Water & Advanced courses may be available seasonally; confirm schedules in advance due to limited operators.
- Specialties: Peak Performance Buoyancy, Underwater Navigation, and Naturalist are practical here; availability varies.
Beyond Diving
- Surfing at Butler Bay Beach (seasonal swells; check local guidance).
- Waterfalls: White Surf Waterfall (easier access) and Whisper Wave Waterfall (forest hike; guide/permit may be required).
- Beaches: Long, uncrowded sands ideal for sunrise/sunset walks and birdwatching.
- Jungle day hikes with local guides in permitted areas.
Suggested 3–4 Day Dive Plan
- Day 1: Arrive Hut Bay; sunset check-dive in a sheltered reef.
- Day 2: Two boat dives on outer patch reefs; afternoon beach time at Butler Bay.
- Day 3: Two dives focused on macro; late afternoon visit to White Surf Waterfall.
- Day 4: Weather buffer; optional surf session or slow reef snorkel before departure.
How to Reach Little Andaman
- Fly to Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport) from major Indian cities.
- Ferry to Little Andaman (Hut Bay): Government ferries from Port Blair’s Phoenix Bay/Haddo Wharf; roughly 6–9 hours depending on sea conditions. Schedules are limited and weather-dependent; buy tickets at DSS counters in advance.
- Helicopter (Pawan Hans): Limited seats, often prioritized for residents and medical travel; highly weather-dependent and not guaranteed for tourists.
- Local transport: Autos, shared jeeps, and rented scooters in Hut Bay/Butler Bay area. Roads can be rough after rains.
Permits & Regulations: Foreign and domestic tourists should confirm the latest Restricted Area Permit (RAP) rules with the Andaman administration. Stay strictly within permitted zones and do not enter tribal reserve areas.
Accommodation Options
Expect simple, budget-to-midrange stays concentrated around Hut Bay and near Butler Bay Beach. Facilities are basic compared to Havelock/Neil.
- Guesthouses/homestays: Fan or AC rooms, limited amenities.
- Beachside cottages: Seasonal availability near Butler Bay.
- Government tourist lodges: Occasionally available; book early.
Power cuts are common. Carry a power bank, and confirm backup electricity and water availability before booking.
Estimated Costs
- Fun dives: INR 4,500–7,000 per dive (equipment usually included; boat/fuel surcharges may apply).
- Discover Scuba (intro dive): INR 4,500–7,500 per person in calm, shallow sites.
- PADI Open Water course: Approx. INR 28,000–45,000 depending on operator and season.
- Scooter rental: INR 500–800 per day (fuel extra).
- Meals: INR 200–500 per person at local eateries; seafood dishes higher.
- Ferry tickets (Port Blair–Hut Bay): Typically INR 400–1,000+ depending on class; check current tariffs.
Sample daily budget (per person):
- Budget: INR 2,000–3,500 (basic room, local meals, no diving).
- Dive day: INR 6,500–10,000 (adds 2 fun dives + scooter + meals).
- Course day: INR 7,500–12,000 (varies by course stage and inclusions).
Note: Prices fluctuate with fuel costs, season, and logistics. Confirm inclusions (equipment, guide ratios, marine fees) in advance.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Simple island fare: Seafood thalis, fried fish, coconut-based curries, basic North/South Indian dishes.
- Beach shacks are few and often seasonal; carry snacks for early boats and long days.
Shopping
- Hut Bay Market: Daily essentials, fresh fruit, basic dive trip supplies.
- Souvenirs are limited; consider small locally made items and responsibly sourced coconut products.
Culture
- Respect local customs and privacy. Photography of indigenous people is prohibited.
- Waste management is limited—pack out non-biodegradable trash.
Nearby Attractions
- Butler Bay Beach: Long curve of sand, surf, sunsets, and occasional turtle sightings.
- White Surf Waterfall: Shorter approach, refreshing pools after rains.
- Whisper Wave Waterfall: Deeper forest hike; local guide/permit may be required.
- Quiet village beaches (e.g., near Netaji Nagar): Serene walks and birding.
Tips for Divers and Travelers
Diving & Safety
- Plan conservatively: Remote setting, limited medical facilities. The nearest recompression chamber is in Port Blair.
- Insurance: Carry dive insurance that covers evacuation (e.g., policies with hyperbaric care).
- Gear: Operators usually provide equipment; bring a well-fitting mask, SMB, whistle, and dive computer if certified.
- Check conditions daily: Swell and wind can change quickly; trust your guide’s site choices.
Environmental Responsibility
- Do not touch or stand on corals; maintain perfect buoyancy.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen or a long-sleeve rash guard.
- Take only photos; leave only bubbles. Pack out plastics.
Practical Essentials
- Cash: ATMs and card acceptance are limited; carry sufficient cash from Port Blair.
- Connectivity: Mobile data is spotty; expect digital detox.
- Packing: Dry bag, rain cover, insect repellent, basic meds, spare batteries, headlamp.
- Seasonal closures: Ferries and flights may shift; keep buffer days.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Opt for calm, shallow sessions (Try Dives/snorkeling) and schedule around nap/meal times.
- Carry kid-sized rash guards and snacks; beach shade is limited.
Honeymooners
- Choose stays near Butler Bay for quiet beaches and sunsets.
- Mix easy morning dives with waterfall picnics and evening beach walks.
Friends/Groups
- Combine surf and dive days; rent scooters for flexible beach hopping.
- Book dives together for group discounts where available; confirm ratios and boat capacities.
FAQs
Q: Is Little Andaman good for beginner divers?
A: Yes, in season. Sheltered reefs can suit beginners and Try Dives, but conditions vary. Choose calm days and reputable guides; if seas are rough, postpone.
Q: What is the typical visibility and water temperature?
A: Visibility is usually 10–25 m from November to April, with water temperatures around 27–30°C.
Q: Are permits required to visit Little Andaman?
A: Tourists must follow current Andaman regulations and remain in permitted zones. Tribal reserves are strictly off-limits. Check the latest rules in Port Blair before travel.
Q: Are there many dive shops on Little Andaman?
A: Options are limited and often seasonal. Pre-arrange dives from Port Blair or confirm local operators in Hut Bay/Butler Bay well in advance.
Q: Where is the nearest decompression chamber?
A: In Port Blair. Dive conservatively, carry evacuation-capable insurance, and keep safety foremost due to the island’s remoteness.
Conclusion
Little Andaman offers a low-key, nature-first diving experience with healthy reefs, simple island life, and far fewer boats than the northern islands. Plan for seasonal weather, limited infrastructure, and responsible travel practices, and you’ll be rewarded with quiet waters, long beaches, and a memorable blend of jungle, waterfall, surf, and sea.
