Anytime! Literally, this place is just that beautiful. The peak season and the best time visibility wise for diving is between the months of January to May. The island is also particularly thriving at this time. June and July are when the monsoons are at their heaviest which means that there are a few days when the sea gets really rough and we might not be able to go very far.

August through November brings some surprisingly good diving even though the Visibility may be a few metres less than what it is in peak season. The nutrient rich waters at this time of year attract large schools of fish and the pelagics that feed on them. Turtle and manta sightings are also common at this time.

All foreign visitors to India need a visa. This must be obtained prior to your departure, as India does NOT issue visas on arrival.

In addition, foreign visitors to the Andamans also need a special Restricted Area Permit, which can be obtained upon arrival (flight or ship). You can also apply for the permit through your embassy while getting the Indian visa; however, we recommend getting it on arrival as it is a lot faster this way. This Restricted Area Permit, which is issued free of charge, is valid for 30 days and can be extended to 45 days. Indian passport holders do not need any permits to visit the Andamans.

Most of the Andamans operate on cash, with a few of the bigger hotels (and us) taking credit cards. A lot of places including us take dollars and euros (especially for large purchases), but you are better off using rupees for your small purchases. Money-exchange facilities are available in Port Blair and there is now an international ATM on Havelock.

Inspite of the lovely tropical weather, we do recommend bringing along a pair of long trousers along. Stuff that is hard to find on the island...A good book (although we have a few), a good pair of sunglasses, swimwear, spares for cameras and that. You will be able to find some medication here but we would recommend bringing any prescriptions you need with you. Obviously you will need bug repellent and sunblock but you can top up here if you need to. If you are planning on getting an indian sim card for your phone, we recommend Vodafone as it works here and in our experience has the best network all over India. If you are certified please bring your card and logbook along. Travel / Dive insurance is always a good thing to have and DAN (Divers Alert Network) does the best dive insurance.

The Andaman islands are virtually crime free so as long as you don't leave stuff lying about and lock your room, you should be ok. People will stare but are very friendly and helpful for the most part. Stay in groups after dark just in case.

The Andamans are quite safe when it comes to malaria and other tropical diseases, but do consult your doctor about shots, vaccines and preventive medication. Otherwise, the general rules of traveling apply: do not eat uncooked veggies or food cooked in unsanitary conditions; drink bottled water; use bug repellant, etc.

There is a good hospital in Port Blair, but medical facilities in the other islands are minimal. It is recommended that you bring preferred or prescription medication with you.