Diving Andaman Islands
A part of India, the Andaman Islands are one of the world’s newest diving destinations and have yet to be properly explored for diving. The waters surrounding the islands are full of fish that have yet to be disturbed. Although in many of the near shore areas the visibility is limited, the offshore islands such as Passage Island, Barren Island, and Narcondam are rich in marine life with huge fish, sharks, manta rays, and coral growth. The reef types are fringing reef, deep walls, and coral gardens that provide deep vertical walls, big sharks, lots of manta rays, an active volcano, very clear water, and lots of big fish.
Diving the Andamans require spending long periods of time on the boat and traveling almost every night in order to get to the best spots. However, for those interested in the best of frontier diving, the Andamans are the place.
Best time to dive
November to April
Visibility
Visibility ranges from 20 to 150 feet depending on where and when you dive.
Water temperatures
Water temperatures average 85 to 90 °F.
Weather and climate
The climate is tropical throughout the year with temperatures between 75°F and 95°F. Due to the sea breeze, the Andamans has very humid weather. The southwest monsoon hits the I Andamans first and then proceeds towards the mainland. From mid-May to October, heavy rains flush the islands, often bringing violent cyclones. In November and December less severe rains arrive with the northeast monsoon.
Language
Bengali, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Nicobarese, Telugu, and English
Passport/Visa requirements
All foreign national traveling to India need a valid passport and visa. Tourist Visa: The application for a tourist visa should be made out of the prescribed form and submitted together with two passport size photographs to the Embassy of India. Any frequent traveler to India should apply for a visa allowing entry for a longer period, but every visit should not last longer than six months. Stay period beyond six months should be registered in the FRRO or the nearest police station.
Currency
Rupee – Get exchange rates at http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Electrical current
220 volts AC, 50 Hz in most places
Capital
Port Blair
General information
The Andaman Islands are a string of 572 islands, with only 36 inhabited. Located in the Bay of Bengal between India and Burma, the topography of the islands is generally hilly with heavy rain forests.
Map
Get a map of the Andaman Islands at WorldAtlas.com.