Havelock vs Neil | Which is the Better Option for Scuba Diving in Andaman?

The Andaman Islands are a natural paradise and the hotspot for enthusiastic scuba divers. It is the prime location for beginners as well as experienced scuba divers. Every year thousands of tourists visit Andaman to experience its diverse marine life, beautiful wide open beaches, and to explore its natural beauty. Scuba diving in Andaman is a must-try watersport to explore the whole new world beneath the sea surface. 

Havelock and Neil are two popular Islands for scuba diving in Andaman. Havelock and Neil Island are located from each other in the vicinity of 15 kilometres. Both Islands are easily accessible via a ferry from Port Blair or each other. Havelock and Neil Island are also known as the best beach destinations in south-east Asia.  

Comparison between Havelock and Neil Island 

Dive sites

Havelock Island has the maximum and most diverse dive sites in Andaman suitable for all depending on their experience and skill levels. The Island consists of more than 25 dive sites with multiple species of corals and sea dwellers. Havelock Island is preferable for both shore and boat dives. 

Neil is a tiny Island and offers a few dive sites as compared to Havelock Island. Junction, K-Rock, Bus Stop, and Jetty channel marker are popular dive sites in Neil. Boat dive is not available on Neil Island. 

Accommodation

Havelock Island offers multiple stay options depending on price, location, and facilities. The Island has classic beachside resorts and allows you to relax and play on the beach. On the other hand, Neil Island has limited stay options because of the Island's small size and not so populated. 

Dive shops

Havelock Island has a number of dive shops from where you can book your scuba diving activity. The dive shops are scattered from Havelock Jetty to Beach no 4 so you can check the dive shops are offering and grab the best deal for scuba diving activity. 

Neil Island has limited dive shops and most of them are based near Neil Jetty. Dive India is a professional dive shop if you wish to dive at Neil Island. 

Marine life

Havelock Island has the most diverse and vibrant marine life compared to Neil Island. The Island is rich in terms of marine density and multiple species of sea dwellers. Scuba diving in Havelock is very much recommended whether you are a beginner or an experienced scuba diver. Neil Island is not very diverse in comparison to Havelock Island because of limited dive options. 

Cost of Diving

As you know, Havelock Island has multiple dive sites as well as multiple dive shops so it is easier to get cheaper dives with maximum quality and safety. In comparison, Neil Island has limited dive sites as well as dive shops so they sell scuba dive packages at a higher rate or at a fixed price.