The short answer
Scuba Diving (Dixon's Pinnacle, Jackson's Reef): what visitors should know first
Recommended if you are an experienced, certified diver. The waters are clear, the marine life is abundant, and the sites are less crowded than elsewhere in the Andaman Islands. Obtain certification elsewhere if you do not have it.
Useful facts
Scuba Diving (Dixon's Pinnacle, Jackson's Reef) facts at a glance
- Location
- Open water, 30–60 minutes by boat from Govind Nagar Jetty
- Type
- Experience
- Time needed
- 4–5 hours including boat time, briefing and two dives
- Best time
- October to April; monsoon months (May–September) have poor visibility and rough seas
Why it matters
Why Scuba Diving (Dixon's Pinnacle, Jackson's Reef) is worth your time
The Andaman Islands are one of India's premier diving destinations, and Havelock's reefs are particularly rich. The waters around Dixon's Pinnacle and Jackson's Reef are part of the Andaman Sea's coral triangle, where diversity is exceptionally high. Sharks, rays, turtles and massive schools of reef fish are routine sightings.
Diving here supports conservation. The operators are trained to limit their impact, and diving tourism has created economic incentive for marine protection. Many dive shops participate in reef monitoring and trash removal. For divers, this is one of India's few places where you can encounter large marine animals in their natural behaviour, and the experience often transforms how you think about ocean protection.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Book your dives the day before through your hotel or directly with an operator. You will be picked up early in the morning and taken to the jetty. The boat ride to Dixon's Pinnacle or Jackson's Reef takes 45 minutes to an hour. The dive master will brief you on the site conditions, marine life, and procedures for the day.
Dixon's Pinnacle is a steep rocky pinnacle rising from 40 metres; you descend along its wall, watching for jacks, groupers and occasionally reef sharks. Jackson's Reef is shallower and known for green and hawksbill turtles; the current can be strong, and the dive master will time the descent with it. Both sites have excellent visibility in good seasons, typically 20–30 metres.
After two dives, the boat returns to Govind Nagar by early afternoon. You will be tired. Rest, hydrate, and avoid flying for 12 hours after diving. Many operators offer snorkelling alternatives if you are not certified; these are less immersive but still rewarding.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- You must have PADI certification; bring your logbook and card
- Book dives the day before; early morning departure
- Bring your own dive computer if you have one; rentals are available
- Eat a light breakfast; some divers experience nausea on boats
- Rest and hydrate fully after diving; avoid flying for 12 hours
- Monsoon months (May–September) have poor visibility and dangerous conditions
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Open water, 30–60 minutes by boat from Govind Nagar Jetty
- Time needed
- 4–5 hours including boat time, briefing and two dives
- Best time
- October to April; monsoon months (May–September) have poor visibility and rough seas
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Scuba diving demands strength, equalization skills and comfort underwater. Older travellers who are active, fit and have relevant experience can dive, but this is not suited to most travellers over 65 without specialist medical clearance.
- Tickets and access
- Dives are offered by licensed operators based near Govind Nagar Jetty. A single dive costs roughly 4000–6000 rupees; a two-dive trip is more economical. PADI certification is mandatory; bring your logbook.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Scuba Diving (Dixon's Pinnacle, Jackson's Reef)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Scuba diving demands strength, equalization skills and comfort underwater. Older travellers who are active, fit and have relevant experience can dive, but this is not suited to most travellers over 65 without specialist medical clearance.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Do I need PADI certification to dive here?
Yes. Havelock operators require evidence of certification. If you are not certified, obtain certification in Port Blair or another location first, or book a snorkelling trip instead.
What marine life will I see?
Sharks, rays, turtles, groupers, jacks and large schools of reef fish are common. Visibility in the cool season is typically 20–30 metres.
Is diving safe in Havelock?
The operators are professional and follow international standards. Diving has inherent risks; ensure you are fit and comfortable before booking.
Can I do a discover dive without certification?
Not at these sites; the reefs are too exposed. You can either obtain certification beforehand or book snorkelling instead.
Sources and further reading
- Andaman Tourism: Water Sports
- Wikipedia: Havelock Island
- Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI)
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
