While the Andamans are known for natural coral, Scuba Diving in Pondicherry offers a completely unique experience: Artificial Reefs. Over the years, local divers have created thriving underwater ecosystems using recycled materials (trees, metal structures) which now attract massive schools of Trevally, Batfish, and Groupers.
Situated on the Coromandel Coast, Pondicherry is the best diving spot on mainland India's East Coast. It is ideal for beginners looking for their first Discover Scuba Dive (DSD) or certified divers wanting to explore sites like Temple Reef and Aravind’s Wall.
Quick Dive Facts:
| Feature | Details |
| Dive Type | Boat Dives (Deep Sea) |
| Primary Attraction | Artificial Reefs & Schooling Fish |
| Maximum Depth | 12 Meters (for Beginners) |
| Visibility | 5 to 15 Meters |
| Swimming Required? | No (For Introductory DSD Programs) |
| Best Season | January to June & September to November |
Why Dive with Sea Water Sports?
- PADI/SSI Certified Partners: We strictly work with 5-Star Dive Centers to ensure international safety standards.
- Comprehensive Training: Unlike quick dips, our package includes proper pool training to ensure you are comfortable before entering the deep ocean.
- Media Included: Underwater photos and videos are provided to capture your interaction with marine life.
Popular Dive Sites
- Temple Reef: A large man-made reef filled with colourful marine life and rich underwater biodiversity.
- Aravind's Wall: A 2.5km long drift dive site famous for Gorgonian fan corals.
- The Hole: A site for advanced divers featuring a vertical drop.
Adventure Plan
Note: Pondicherry diving usually follows a Train-Then-Dive format for maximum safety. This is often split over 2 days or a full day.
Day 1: Theory & Pool Training (The Prep)
- Reporting: Reach the Dive Centre in Pondicherry.
- Briefing: A certified instructor explains the physics of diving, hand signals, and how to equalize ear pressure.
- Confined Water Dive: Enter a swimming pool to practice breathing through the regulator and clearing your mask. This ensures you don't panic in the ocean.
- Duration: Approx. 1 - 2 Hours.
Day 2: The Ocean Dive (The Adventure)
- 06:30 AM - 07:00 AM: Report at the Dive Centre.
- Boat Ride: A 20-30 minute boat ride into the Bay of Bengal to reach the dive site.
- The Dive: Descend to approx. 12 meters with your instructor.
- Experience: weightlessness and breathing underwater.
- Sightings: Look for Lionfish, Moray Eels, and large schools of Silver Moonies.
- Surface Interval: Relax on the boat with light snacks/fruits.
- Return: Head back to shore.
- Certification: Receive a Certificate of Recognition (DSD Level).
Who Can Participate?
- Age: 10 Years and above.
- Health: Must have no history of asthma, heart conditions, or sinus issues. A medical declaration form is mandatory.
- Flight Rule: Do not fly within 12-18 hours of your dive to avoid Decompression Sickness.