Freediving in the Andaman Islands: Courses, Sites and What to Expect
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are India's premier underwater destination — and for freedivers, they represent some of the most extraordinary conditions in the Indian Ocean. Warm water, exceptional visibility, and thriving coral ecosystems make the Andamans the top choice for anyone looking to take their first freediving course or push their depth training.
Why the Andamans?
- Water temperature: 28–30°C year-round. A 3mm wetsuit is all you need.
- Visibility: 15–25m on most sites, with occasional 30m+ days
- Marine life: Reef sharks, sea turtles, diverse coral, and occasional manta rays
- Ease of access: Direct flights from Kolkata, Delhi, and Bangalore to Port Blair
Best Sites for Freediving
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Havelock is the Andamans' most popular destination and home to most freediving operations. Key sites include:
Nemo Reef — Shallow coral garden (8–18m), excellent for beginners. Visibility often exceeds 20m. Named for its abundant clownfish population.
Tribe Gate — A sloping wall that drops from 15m to 30m+. More suited to intermediate and advanced freedivers. Strong but predictable current.
Lighthouse — Consistent 20–25m of visibility, diverse fish life, and a manageable slope. One of the most popular training sites.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Quieter and less developed than Havelock, Neil Island offers unspoiled reef in shallower water — ideal for AIDA 2 open water sessions and relaxed recreational diving.
Freediving Courses in Andaman
FAI-affiliated instructors operate courses throughout the high season (October to May). AIDA 2 is the standard starting point and can be completed in 2–3 days.
What to expect:
- Day 1: Theory session (equalisation, physiology, safety), pool training, static apnea
- Day 2–3: Open water dives, depth training to 20m, buddy system practice
Visit our Directory to find a certified instructor in the Andamans.
Best Time to Visit
October to May is the main season. The sea is calm, visibility is at its best, and most instructors operate full schedules.
June to September brings the monsoon — rough seas and poor visibility make diving difficult. Some operators close during this period.
Getting There
- Fly to Port Blair (VTZ) from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, or Bangalore
- Take a ferry or flight to Havelock (2.5 hrs by government ferry; 30 min by seaplane)
- Most dive operators offer accommodation packages
Tips for First-Time Freedivers in Andaman
- Arrive a day early. Acclimatise before your course begins.
- Stay hydrated. Tropical heat is dehydrating — drink plenty of water.
- Don't scuba dive 24 hours before freediving. Residual nitrogen affects equalisation.
- Respect the reef. No touching coral, no chasing marine life.
The Andamans will make you fall in love with freediving. Book a course, find your depth, and come back every year.
Looking for a west coast alternative? Divers of Vingoria in Bhogwe, Maharashtra offer personalised freediving on the Arabian Sea, accessible from Mumbai and Pune.