Diving atThe Aquarium (India)
Stepping into The Aquarium reveals a vibrant underwater panorama. It's immediately apparent how this site earned its name, with a colorful array of fishes navigating through sloping reefs. Shallow depths and minimal currents characterize this location, making it welcoming for divers of all levels. The clear visibility frequently allows for unobstructed views of its rich marine inhabitants and the splendid hard coral formations that punctuate the sandy bottom.
Tonight's objective overview for The Aquarium shows an air temperature of 28°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.32m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
5.5191, 73.4444
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Aquarium on Havelock Island earned its evocative name from the vibrant, fish-filled environment, resembling a living display. Situated about 3 kilometers from Elephant Beach on the island's southwest side, this popular spot draws many divers and snorkelers.
Historically, it has become a go-to destination for those new to scuba diving, offering a gentle introduction to the Andaman Islands' underwater world. Its shallow nature, typically around 10-12 meters (33-39 ft) with a maximum depth of 14 meters (45 ft), combined with light currents, creates an ideal learning environment.
Accessing Havelock Island generally involves flying into Port Blair's Veer Sarvarkar International Airport, followed by a 2-3 hour ferry ride from the Phoenix Bay jetty. Upon arrival on Havelock, the site is a short boat trip away, making it a convenient option for local dive centers.
This ease of access ensures more time spent exploring beneath the surface. Here, even non-swimmers can experience the thrill of breathing underwater, under instructor guidance.
The combination of easy logistical planning and rich, accessible marine life contributes significantly to its enduring appeal, making it a frequent stop for dive schools. Its consistent conditions provide a reliable setting for initial underwater explorations.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive trip to The Aquarium calls for considering the region's seasonal patterns to maximize enjoyment. The months of March and April generally offer excellent conditions, reflected by dive scores of 9. During this period, average air temperatures are pleasant, ranging from approximately 28.4°C (83°F) to 28.8°C (84°F), with minimal rainfall, typically around 1.9 mm to 3.8 mm. These conditions translate to calmer seas and very clear visibility. November also presents good diving opportunities with a dive score of 8, and an average air temperature of about 27.6°C (81°F). While water temperature data isn't consistently reported, the stable air temperatures suggest a comfortable aquatic environment year-round. Divers seeking the most tranquil surface conditions and brightest underwater views will find these months particularly rewarding.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Boat entry typically brings divers to Aquarium, where calm and clear conditions are common. Upon entering the water, a light water current is often encountered, creating a relaxed drift suitable for all skill levels. Depths here range within typical recreational limits, with some sections reaching a maximum depth of 14 meters (45 ft). Consistent good visibility, often extending to 12 meters (39 ft), even in the deeper parts, allows for easy observation of the diverse marine ecosystem. Exploring the site reveals sloping reefs and a soft sandy bottom, elements that contribute to its "aquarium-like" feel. An overall experience of gentle movements and unobstructed views makes it a comfortable dive for beginners and a pleasant, easy outing for more seasoned divers.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Preparing for a dive at The Aquarium means focusing on fundamental safety and responsible diving practices. Given its suitability for beginners and non-swimmers, it's highly recommended that new divers enroll in a PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience or a PADI Open Water Diver course. These programs ensure proper instruction and supervision from qualified professionals. The site's shallow depth and light currents minimize common risks, but maintaining good buoyancy control, perhaps refined through a PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy course, is always beneficial to protect the fragile hard corals. Always dive with a buddy and follow your instructor's guidance, especially concerning bottom time and ascent rates. Local dive centers are well-equipped to provide guidance and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, including children.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Divers planning deeper dives may feel cooler than those staying in shallower areas.
Many divers find that dive skin or rash guard offers a comfortable balance between warmth and mobility. Conditions in the coming days are expected to stay within a similar temperature range.
Divers heading to The Aquarium today should expect water temperatures around 31°C (89°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 28°C (82°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at The Aquarium
What first catches the eye at The Aquarium is the sheer variety of colorful reef fish. Expect to see False Percula Clownfish darting among anemones and various angelfish, bannerfish, and triggerfish navigating the corals. Moray eels often peek from crevices, while Moorish idols and surgeonfish gracefully move through the water column. Observing many amazingly hued nudibranchs is also a common occurrence, often spotted on the sandy sea bed. Look for larger inhabitants like Giant Trevally and Blue Fin Trevally cruising past, alongside coral groupers, snappers, and the occasional common stingray.
Coral Groupers
Ray
Moray Eel
Bannerfish
Anemone
Snapper
Giant Trevally
Hawksbill Turtle
Stingray
Triggerfish
Angelfish
Clownfish
Nudibranch
Surgeonfish
Dive Sites Near The Aquarium
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Dive Centers Near The Aquarium
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can beginners and non-swimmers dive in Aquarium?
Aquarium is highly suitable for beginners and even non-swimmers. Its shallow depths and light currents provide a safe and controlled environment for first-time divers under instructor supervision.
What is the typical dive depth at The Aquarium?
Dive depths at this site are primarily in the recreational range, typically between 10-12 meters. The maximum depth generally reaches around 14 meters, ideal for entry-level divers.
How do divers reach The Aquarium?
Aquarium is located on the southwest side of Havelock Island. Divers typically travel to Havelock Island via a ferry from Port Blair, then take a short boat ride to the dive site.
What marine life can I expect to see?
Expect to frequently encounter False Percula Clownfish, Moray eels, Moorish idols, and various reef fish like angelfish and snappers. Nudibranchs are also a common sight, along with Giant and Blue Fin Trevally.
Is visibility good at The Aquarium?
Visibility at Aquarium is generally quite good, often allowing clear views up to 12 meters underwater. Such clarity enhances the experience of observing marine life and coral formations.
What are the water conditions like for diving?
Aquarium is known for its shallow waters and light currents, making it a comfortable and accessible dive site. These calm conditions are a key reason it's recommended for new divers.
Can individuals with poor eyesight dive here?
Poor eyesight isn't a barrier. Divers can use contact lenses under their mask or, if available at the dive center, utilize prescription scuba masks to ensure clear underwater vision.
Are there other nearby dive sites on Havelock Island for advanced divers?
Havelock Island offers a range of sites. While Aquarium is great for beginners, more experienced divers can explore deeper sites like Jackson’s Bar, Johnny’s Gorge, and The Wall.
Liveaboards Sailing to The Aquarium
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