Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Andaman Sea
Freediving in Andaman Islands
India's clearest water. Coral walls, 30-metre visibility, turquoise everything.
Why dive here
The Andamans are, simply, the best freediving in India. Visibility routinely exceeds 20 metres, coral reefs are alive and shallow enough to enjoy on a single breath, and deep walls drop straight off the reef edge — perfect for Advanced and Master depth work. Sea Critter runs seasonal course trips and depth camps at Havelock every year.
Marine life
- ◆Hawksbill and green turtles
- ◆Reef sharks on outer walls
- ◆Napoleon wrasse
- ◆Vast hard-coral gardens
- ◆Manta rays (seasonal)
- ◆Dugongs (rare, unforgettable)
Conditions
- BEST SEASON
- December to April; glassy seas and peak visibility January–March.
- WEATHER & WATER
- 26–32 °C air, 28–30 °C water. Two monsoons (May–Sep, Nov) bracket the season.
- VISIBILITY
- 15–30+ metres — the best in Indian waters.
Plan the trip
Getting there and staying
Travel guide
Fly to Port Blair (IXZ) via Chennai, Delhi, or Bengaluru, then a 90-minute government or private ferry to Havelock. Book ferries in advance in peak season. Indian nationals need no permit; foreign nationals receive a free 30-day permit on arrival.
Accommodation
Beachfront eco-resorts and dive lodges around Beach No. 5 and Kalapathar; ₹2,000 bamboo cottages to ₹25,000 luxury villas.
Nearby attractions
- ◆Radhanagar Beach (Asia's best-ranked beach)
- ◆Kalapathar Beach
- ◆Neil Island day trips
- ◆Kayaking the mangroves
- ◆Cellular Jail, Port Blair
FAQ
Andaman Islands — common questions
Warm water, 20–30 m visibility, and reef walls with real depth close to shore — conditions comparable to Southeast Asia's best, inside India.
Foreign nationals get a free Restricted Area Permit on arrival at Port Blair, valid 30 days. Indian citizens need none.