Asian Journeys

Pristine Diving in The Andaman & Nicobar Islands

WHILE INDIA IS KNOWN FOR MANY THINGS, DIVING ISN’T USUALLY TOP OF MIND. HOWEVER THERE IS UNIQUE WORLD-CLASS DIVING TO BE FOUND THERE.

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Scuba diving is the predominan­t reason why visitors go to India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. There are many places throughout the archipelag­o where diving can be enjoyed year round, but the best months for diving are from December to April. Enjoy the underwater marine life and view the rarest of corals at North Bay, Carbyn’s Cove, Chidiya tapu, Havelock, Jolly Buoy, Ross and Smith Islands and Redskin Island. The coastal belt surroundin­g these islands is the abode of one of the richest coral reef ecosystems in the world and most of this area is still untouched by human activity.

EMERALD WATERS

Many of the islands are surrounded by reef fringes, often several hundred meters wide and are separated from the shore by a lagoon. Cinque Island is one of the best diving sites in the islands, with its clear emerald waters providing a visibility of up to 80 ft. The deep dive offers views of a variety of marine life, including black coral, and is ideal for the experience­d diver. For others, there are trainers who can help you get the hang of the sport. Explore the vibrant sea life that resides in clear turquoise waters.

The waters of the Andamans conceal many unexplored wonders - uncharted wrecks, large schools of manta rays, big pelagics, turtles and more. There are over 850 species of marine life and some of the best coral in the world. It has opened up to tourists only recently, which means that the reefs are still pristine and untouched. Dive near Barren Island, about 138 km (86 mi) northeast of the territory’s capital, Port Blair. This island is the only active volcano in India.

FAIRY TALE WORLD

Almost 86% of the Islands and Islets, numbering 572, are covered with forest and endless varieties of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to these islands. The turquoise blue sea, fairy-tale-like beaches, profusion of tropical flora and fauna, a vibrant history, multi-ethnic culture diversity and amiable people create the perfect ambience for discerning tourist with a taste for exotic locations.

Scuba diving is the greatest activity on the Andaman & Nicobar Isles followed by chilling out and enjoying the excellent seafood that is available. One can see the amazing sea life among the world of awesome water bodies, vibrant fish and awesome corals.

BAREFOOT SCUBA DIVE RESORT

The go-to place for scuba lovers is Barefoot

Scuba Resort on Havelock Island. Barefoot Scuba Dive Resort is Havelock’s premier dive resort. The property on Beach No.3 comprises an elegant resort with several categories of rooms appealing to all budgets and a full-fledged PADI 5 Star Instructor Developmen­t Dive Facility. With its comfortabl­e Sea-facing Duplex Cottages, Tented Cottages and A Frame Huts makes the resort an ideal base from which guests can explore the beauty of Havelock, both above and beneath the waves.

Shunning the dive-factory mentality of many dive destinatio­ns, Barefoot Scuba prefers to be known for its personalis­ed service. The multilingu­al, friendly and experience­d instructor­s and dive masters are committed to your underwater enjoyment and safety.

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