Frequently Asked Questions

Answer: Like any other place in the Andaman Islands, Lighthouse also has a lot to offer in terms of water sports. Scuba diving is, of course, the king of water sports. But, if you are not into that, you can always try sea walking and snorkelling. In sea walking, you’ll be walking on a shallow part of the sea bed with an instructor. Snorkelling is just like scuba, but you do not have to deep dive while snorkelling. You can stay afloat just below the surface of the water and enjoy a panoramic view of the sea. If you need more adventure, try jet skiing and parasailing.

Answer: The cost of the program can vary depending on the dive centre, instructor, and specific course requirements. Not all dive centres in the Andamans offer the rebreather course, so it would be better to call the dive centre to first enquire about the availability of instructors for the course. Typically, the cost can range from INR 30,000 to more than INR 80,000, with additional expenses for equipment rental, certification fees, and travel. However, some dive centres may offer package deals or discounts for multiple courses or groups. Also, you must consider the quality of the training, the experience of the instructors, and the equipment provided when you are comparing the cost of doing the course. 

Yes, the PADI Shore Diver Course includes both theoretical and practical components. The practical component includes two open water dives where you will apply the skills learned in the classroom.

When you are going on a trip with your family and kids some charter operators are okay with that. They are especially okay with it if the trip is not too long and the water is calm. You have to remember that different operators have different rules about how old your kids have to be and how to keep them safe. For example charter operators always make kids wear life jackets. You have to watch them all the time. So, it is an idea to check with the charter operators ahead of time to see if they are a good choice, for your family and kids.

Answer: There are many places to explore near Lighthouse. Due to its proximity to both Havelock and Neil Islands, you can explore both these islands. You should visit Radhanagar, Elephant and Govind Nagar beaches. Radhanagar is one of the top beaches in the whole of Asia, and the Govind Nagar beach is close to the Nemo reef dive site. On Neil Island, you can watch the sunset from the Howrah or Natural bridge. Havelock is also known for its mangrove forests and the best way to explore the forest is by taking a kayak ride.

Answer: If you are experienced in scuba diving and want to take the next step to something more adventurous, then the PADI basic freediver course is for you. In freediving, you get to scuba dive but without a breathing apparatus. This means that you depend wholly on yourself to breathe underwater. The basic freediver course introductory course for people who want to explore the underwater world on a single breath. It is the first step in the PADI freediver education system and is a prerequisite for the PADI freediver certification. The course teaches you the basic principles of freediving, including breathing techniques, equipment, safety procedures, and dive planning. It consists of three main components: knowledge development, confined water sessions, and open water sessions.

In Andamans, the PADI Wreck Diver course is a great opportunity for divers to explore the underwater world of historic shipwrecks in the area. The course includes four open water dives, which are usually conducted over two days, and covers the necessary skills and techniques to safely navigate through a wreck. Participants will learn about the equipment needed for wreck diving, proper safety procedures, how to maintain buoyancy control in overhead environments, and how to plan a safe and enjoyable dive. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a PADI Wreck Diver certification card, allowing them to dive wrecks in open water environments around the world.

People should really let the fish go after they catch them, especially the big ones and the ones that are having babies. Even though it is not always the law, most fishing tour operators do this anyway. This ensures that the fish population stays well and keeps the ocean and everything in it safe. If you are going to fish, you should follow these rules strictly. Catch-and-release fishing is a way to do this and it helps keep the marine ecosystems healthy which is good for the entire Andaman.

Answer: The Aquarium is one of the most popular diving sites on Havelock Island. This is because the diving site is best for beginners to try their first dive. You can dive at Aquarium even if you do not know how to swim. The depth is low and the current is light. Not just for adults, Aquarium is a great diving spot for children as well. Also, the visibility in Aquarium is great which means that you can spot a host of marine life underwater. There are many diving centres near Aquarium, so getting an instructor for your first dive should not be difficult.

Answer: The PADI basic fcourse is not difficult if you are reasonably fit and comfortable in the water. You do not need to be an athlete or have previous freediving experience to enrol in the course. However, you will need to meet certain physical and medical requirements and be able to swim at least 200 meters non-stop without fins or 300 meters with fins. During the course, you will learn to control your breathing, relax, and equalise your ears. You will also learn about different freediving disciplines, such as constant weight and free immersion, and practice them in confined and open water environments. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, the course offers a solid foundation of knowledge and techniques that can enhance your safety and enjoyment while freediving.