Scuba diving at Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
Scuba diving around Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) offers world-class coral reefs, steep walls and rich biodiversity in clear tropical waters. Dive sites such as Barracuda Point, Aquarium, The Wall and Lighthouse feature hard and soft corals, colorful reef fish, turtles, reef sharks and occasional pelagics. Options range from Discover Scuba/try-dives for beginners to guided dives for certified divers and PADI/AIDA courses for certification. Local operators follow safety standards and provide guided boat transfers from Havelock Jetty.
Location
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) dive sites — Barracuda Point, Aquarium, The Wall, Elephant Beach approach, Lighthouse, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), India
Duration
Per dive session: 2–4 hours (boat transfer, briefing, 1–2 dives). Course packages: 1–4 days depending on certification level.
Best Time to Visit
October to May (dry season) — best visibility and calm seas. Monsoon months (June–September) often have limited operations.
Pricing
- Discover Scuba / Try Dive: INR 3,000–4,500 per person (1 shallow guided dive)
- Certified guided dive: INR 2,500–4,000 per dive
- Two-dive day package: INR 5,000–8,500 per person
- PADI Open Water Course (3–4 days): INR 20,000–30,000 (includes theory, confined/open water dives, equipment) Prices vary by season, operator, number of dives and included transfers/equipment.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Barracuda Point — famous drift site with steep reef walls and frequent large fish
The Wall & Aquarium — excellent coral gardens, clear visibility and abundant reef fish
Turtle sightings — green and hawksbill turtles commonly seen
Macro life — nudibranchs, shrimps and small critters in reef crevices
Night dives available — different species and behaviors after dark
Suitable for beginners and certified divers — operators provide Discover Scuba and guided dives
Itinerary
Pickup from accommodation or meet at Havelock Jetty
Operators usually collect divers from central locations on Havelock; arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Dive briefing & gear fit
Safety briefing, site information, buddy pairing and equipment sizing. Inform staff of medical conditions.
Boat transfer to dive site
Short boat rides to nearby sites (15–45 minutes depending on site).
First dive (40–60 minutes)
Guided dive; typical depth for introductory dives 6–12 m, certified dives 12–30 m depending on site and certification.
Surface interval — snack & refresh
Time to rest, hydrate and review footage; many operators provide light refreshments.
Second dive (optional)
Second dive to a different site; great to see more environments or attempt a night dive later.
Return to jetty & gear wash
Operators will rinse and pack gear; allow time for trophy photos and payments/tips.
Safety Requirements
Complete pre-dive medical questionnaire; obtain doctor clearance if you have respiratory, cardiac, epilepsy, diabetes or recent surgery
Minimum age: typically 10–12 years for Discover Scuba / junior courses (operator policies vary)
Certified divers must carry proof of certification and logged dives if requested
No alcohol within 24 hours before diving; avoid heavy meals immediately before immersion
Observe ascent rates and safety stops; follow instructor/guide at all times
Wait 18–24 hours before flying after diving (follow operator guidance based on number of dives)
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching or standing on corals
Operators reserve the right to cancel or postpone dives in poor weather or low visibility conditions
Tips
Book dives in advance during peak season (Oct–May) — limited daily slots
Bring swimsuit, rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, towel, hat and cash for payments/tips
Carry a small waterproof camera or hire guide’s camera service to capture marine life
Bring a lightweight sweater for early morning boat rides (breeze can be cool)
Check included equipment — most operators provide tanks, weights, BCD, regulator and wetsuit; bring your own mask/snorkel if preferred
Respect marine life: do not chase, feed or touch animals and maintain neutral buoyancy to protect corals
