So you’re thinking about scuba diving in Andaman — but have no idea what actually happens on the day? No certification, maybe a little nervous, and a lot of questions?
We get that all the time.
This guide covers everything a first-timer genuinely needs to know- no fluff, no jargon. Just the real stuff.
Why Andaman Is Perfect for Your First Dive
Honestly? You couldn’t pick a better place to start.
- Water is warm (27–30°C) and crystal clear — visibility up to 30 metres on a good day
- Reefs are shallow and calm — ideal for beginners
- Marine life is incredible — turtles, reef sharks, clownfish, hundreds of coral species
- No prior experience or certification needed
- Costs are a fraction of what you’d pay in the Maldives or Bali
What Actually Happens on Your First Dive?
First-timers do what’s called a Discover Scuba Dive (DSD) — a fully guided experience with a certified instructor beside you the entire time. Here’s the honest, step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1 — Briefing on Land (30–45 min)
Your instructor explains gear, hand signals, and one important skill: how to equalise ear pressure (it’s just a gentle pinch-and-blow — easy once you try it). Nothing happens in water yet.
Step 2 — Shallow Water Practice (15–20 min)
You practice in waist-to-chest-deep water near the shore — breathing through the regulator, clearing your mask, signalling your guide. Most people are surprised by how fast they get comfortable here.
Step 3 — The Open Water Dive (30–45 min)
This is it. You descend to no more than 12 metres with your instructor right beside you. Breathe slowly, look around, and try not to get distracted by the turtle that might just swim past.
Step 4 — Post-Dive
Back on shore — quick debrief, collect your underwater photos if you opted for them, and take a moment to absorb what just happened.
Best Dive Spots for Beginners in Andaman
| Dive Site | Location | Why It’s Great for First-Timers |
| North Bay Island | Port Blair | Easy access, calm water, vibrant coral gardens |
| Elephant Beach | Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) | Shallow reef, sea turtle sightings, stunning scenery |
| Nemo Reef | Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) | Quiet, uncrowded, healthy corals, lots of clownfish |
| Chidiya Tapu | Port Blair | Less touristy, beautiful soft corals, great for late afternoon dives |
Andaman Scuba Diving Cost
| Experience | Price (Per Person) |
| Discover Scuba Dive — Basic | ₹3,500 – ₹4,500 |
| Discover Scuba Dive — With Photos & Video | ₹4,500 – ₹6,000 |
| PADI Open Water Certification | ₹18,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Advanced Open Water Certification | ₹15,000 – ₹22,000 |
| Night Dive (Certified Divers) | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 |
Quick tip: Always ask what’s included before you book. Some operators show a low base price and then charge extra for equipment, underwater photos, and boat transfers. At Beyond Oceans, the price you see is the price you pay — no surprises.
Havelock is slightly pricier than Port Blair, but the reef quality makes it worth it.
Is It Safe?
Yes — as long as you go with a certified operator. Here’s what to look for:
- ✅ PADI or SSI-certified dive instructors
- ✅ Maximum depth of 12 metres for a DSD
- ✅ Instructor-to-diver ratio of 1:2 for beginners
- ✅ Well-maintained, regularly serviced equipment
- ✅ A health/fitness form filled before every dive
One thing to know: Conditions like severe asthma, heart disease, epilepsy, or recent surgery may prevent diving. If you’re unsure, check with your doctor before the trip.
Other Andaman and Nicobar Water Sports to Pair With Your Dive
Since you’re already in Andaman — the water sports scene goes way beyond scuba. Most operators offer bundle packages that save you money.
- Snorkelling — great warm-up, see the reef without going deep
- Sea Walking — walk on the ocean floor with a helmet, no swimming needed
- Glass Bottom Boat — see the reef without getting wet, perfect for kids
- Parasailing — Andaman’s coastline from up in the air is something else
- Kayaking — explore sea caves and mangroves at your own pace
- Jet Skiing / Banana Boat — fun, fast, great for groups
What to Pack for Your Dive Day
Keep it simple:
- Swimwear or a rash guard (your operator provides the wetsuit)
- A light meal 2–3 hours before — not too full, not on an empty stomach either
- Sunscreen (biodegradable is better for the reef)
- Towel and a dry change of clothes
- Any glasses/vision details (dive masks can be adjusted for prescription)
Ready to Book?
At Beyond Oceans, we handle everything — hotel pickup, PADI-certified guides, transparent Andaman scuba diving charges, and dive sites matched to your comfort level.
Whether you’re in Port Blair, Havelock, or Neil Island, just reach out and we’ll take care of the rest.
👉Browse Activity Packages → beyondoceans.in/activities 📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 79086 71247
Quick FAQs
Do I need to know how to swim?
You need to be comfortable in water — not a strong swimmer. Your instructor stays with you the whole time.
Will my ears hurt?
They might feel pressure if you don’t equalise. Your instructor teaches you how beforehand — it takes about 30 seconds to learn and makes all the difference.
What if I get nervous underwater?
Signal your guide and breathe slowly. You can surface and stop the dive anytime — no questions asked. It happens to more people than you’d think.
Can kids dive?
Most operators allow children 10 years and above for a supervised DSD. Check with your specific operator for age and health requirements.
