Top 5 Best Dive Sites in Andaman for Beginners or Non-Swimmers
The Andaman Islands are famous for their beautiful underwater world. With crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and plenty of fish, it’s a dream destination for divers. But if you’re a beginner or a non-swimmers, you might be wondering if you can enjoy the experience too.
The good news is, there are plenty of dive sites in the Andaman Islands that are perfect for beginners or even those who don’t swim. These sites are safe, shallow, and offer amazing marine life, making them great for your first dive.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 best dive sites in Andaman for beginners or non-swimmers. Let’s dive in
Elephant Beach, Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Why it’s great for beginners: Elephant Beach is one of the best spots for beginners. The water is shallow, calm, and clear, making it perfect for new divers. You don’t need to be a great swimmer to enjoy the beauty of the underwater world here. The dive depth is around 3 to 10 meters, so you won’t feel overwhelmed.
What you can see: You’ll find colorful corals, schools of fish, sea cucumbers, and even starfish. The shallow waters make it easy to stay comfortable and safe while enjoying the dive.
Extra tip: If you’re a non-swimmer, you can still enjoy the experience. There are “introductory dives” where a professional guide helps you. You can also try “snuba,” a combination of snorkeling and diving.
2. North Bay Island
Why it’s great for beginners: North Bay Island is another wonderful location for beginners. The water is calm, and visibility is excellent, meaning you’ll get a good view of the marine life around you. The dive sites here are shallow, ranging from 3 to 12 meters deep, so they’re safe and perfect for beginners.
What you can see: At North Bay, you can expect to see vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and maybe even sea turtles or rays. The shallow water means you’ll be able to take your time and enjoy the dive without rushing.
Extra tip: Don’t worry if you’re a non-swimmer – you can enjoy the beautiful marine life by snorkeling or doing an introductory dive with an instructor. They’ll make sure you’re safe and comfortable throughout.
3. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) – The Natural Bridge
Why it’s great for beginners: Neil Island is known for its quiet, calm waters, making it perfect for beginner divers. The shallow reefs here are rich in marine life and easy to explore. The Natural Bridge, a famous natural formation, is a great spot to visit before or after your dive.
What you can see: Underwater, you’ll find colorful fish like parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. The water here is clear, and the dive depth is usually between 3 and 10 meters, so it’s great for those new to diving.
Extra tip: If you’re not comfortable with diving yet, you can try snorkeling. The shallow waters are perfect for beginners, and you’ll still be able to see the vibrant corals and fish.
4. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Port Blair
Why it’s great for beginners: The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a protected area near Port Blair, offering beginner-friendly dive spots. The water is calm and clear, with great visibility, so it’s perfect for your first dive experience.
What you can see: The park is home to stunning coral reefs and a wide range of marine life. You’ll likely see clownfish, sea anemones, and maybe even a reef shark or two (don’t worry – they’re harmless!). The depth is usually between 5 and 12 meters, making it easy for beginners to enjoy the dive.
Extra tip: If you’re nervous about diving, don’t worry! There are experienced instructors to guide you every step of the way. You’ll feel comfortable and safe throughout your dive.
5. Cinque Island
Why it’s great for beginners: Cinque Island is a remote and peaceful place, ideal for beginner divers. The waters are shallow, calm, and crystal-clear, so it’s a fantastic spot to try diving for the first time.
What you can see: Cinque Island is home to beautiful coral reefs, schools of fish, and even dolphins. The water depth is between 3 and 10 meters, making it easy for you to enjoy a relaxed and safe dive. You can take your time and explore the underwater world at your own pace.
Extra tip: Cinque Island is less crowded, so it’s a more peaceful and less stressful place to dive. Non-swimmers can enjoy the water by taking part in guided snorkeling tours, where you can float on the surface and still see all the colorful fish and corals.
Conclusion
The Andaman Islands offer some of the best beginner-friendly dive sites in the world. Whether you’re new to diving or don’t swim at all, these 5 locations are perfect for your first underwater adventure. From the calm, shallow waters of Elephant Beach to the peaceful reefs of Cinque Island, you’ll be able to experience the beauty of the ocean in a safe and comfortable way.
Before you dive in, make sure you’re prepared. Most dive centers in Andaman offer training and guided dives, so you can feel confident even if you’re not a strong swimmer. Dive into the clear waters and explore the vibrant marine life – it’s an experience you won’t forget.
