## Where to Dive in Havelock, the Pristine Andaman Islands
Havelock Island, a picturesque gem nestled in the heart of the Andaman archipelago, is an idyllic destination for scuba diving enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, Havelock offers an unparalleled diving paradise. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best dive sites around the island:
### Dive Sites in North Havelock
#### Nemo Reef
Ideal for beginners and experienced divers alike
Shallow depths (6-15 meters) with excellent visibility
Teeming with colorful fish, clownfish, and sea turtles
#### Dixon’s Pinnacle
Named for its cone-shaped rock formation
Dramatic underwater cliffs and caves
Home to a variety of reef fish, jacks, and barracudas
#### Johnny’s Gorge
A spectacular underwater canyon
Rocky walls covered in sponges and corals
Encounter schools of snappers, goatfish, and butterflyfish
### Dive Sites in South Havelock
#### Lighthouse Wall
Located near the famous Havelock Island Lighthouse
Steep drop-off with a sheer wall
Ample opportunities to spot eagle rays, sharks, and turtles
#### Fish Factory
An artificial reef created from an abandoned fish processing plant
Now a thriving marine sanctuary
Abundant fish life including snappers, groupers, and moray eels
#### Jackson’s Bar
A shallow reef with a sandy bottom
Ideal for macro photography and spotting hidden marine creatures
Home to nudibranchs, seahorses, and mantis shrimp
### Dive Sites in East Havelock
#### The Wall
A deep dive site (20-30 meters) with a spectacular vertical drop-off
Dramatic coral formations and a wealth of fish species
Suitable for advanced divers
#### Dixon’s Drift
A gentle drift dive along a coral-covered underwater ridge
Excellent visibility and a chance to encounter pelagic fish
Suitable for intermediate and experienced divers
### Dive Centers in Havelock
Havelock Island is home to several reputable dive centers that offer a range of diving services, including courses, certifications, and guided dives. Some of the most popular dive centers include:
Barracuda Diving: One of the oldest and most established dive centers in the Andamans, known for its certified instructors and high safety standards.
Dive India: A PADI 5-Star Dive Resort offering a wide range of diving programs, from beginner to advanced levels.
Aquaventure Havelock: Specializes in small group diving and personalized tours, ensuring a tailored experience for each diver.
### Best Time to Dive
The best time to dive in Havelock is during the dry season, which runs from October to May. During this period, the waters are calmer, the visibility is excellent, and the chances of encountering large marine life are higher.
### Tips for Scuba Diving in Havelock
Obtain a diving permit: It is mandatory to obtain a diving permit from the Forest Department before diving in the Andamans.
Bring your own gear: Renting diving equipment can be expensive, so it’s advisable to bring your own mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit if possible.
Choose the right dive site: Consult with the dive center to choose the most suitable dive site based on your experience and preferences.
Follow safety guidelines: Always dive with a buddy and obey all safety instructions given by your dive instructor.
Respect the marine environment: Avoid touching or disturbing the coral and marine life.
Havelock Island offers a truly extraordinary scuba diving experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, you’ll find dive sites that cater to all levels of expertise. Embrace the crystal-clear waters, teeming marine life, and breathtaking underwater landscapes as you embark on an unforgettable diving adventure in the Andamans.