Frogman

Located on Swaraj Dweep, Frogman is a local dive centre founded by Suchit, who transitioned from the stock market to a life dedicated to the ocean. Unlike larger booking agencies, this centre is operated by local divers who possess an intimate knowledge of the Andaman reefs.

They focus on maintaining small groups and high safety standards across a variety of environments. From the shallow, calm reef flats suitable for beginners to the deep, current-driven walls and pinnacles sought by advanced divers, the centre provides access to the best the island has to offer.

The team is composed of experienced local instructors who prioritise a 1:1 instructor support ratio for those undertaking their first dives. This approach ensures that even non-swimmers can feel secure while exploring the underwater landscape.

As a RAID-affiliated centre, all training follows strict international protocols. The centre is known for its transparency, ensuring divers know exactly what to expect regarding their training and dive sites before they arrive.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of RAID certification courses. Beginners can start with the RAID Open Water 20 or progress through the RAID Advanced 35 and the RAID Nitrox course.

For those looking to professionalise their skills, the centre provides RAID Divemaster and RAID Master Rescue Diver training. They also offer a specialised 'Zero to Hero' programme and First Aid & CPR certification.

The centre operates private boats with a capacity for 6 to 12 guests. These vessels are used for trips to premium sites such as Tribe Gate, The Wall, and Juvi's, allowing for a more personalised experience than larger dive boats.

On board, guests are provided with water, juice, tea, a light breakfast, and a hot lunch. For those looking to capture their dives, GoPro cameras are available for use during the trip.

Frogman provides a full range of rental kit, including premium Aqualung equipment which is disinfected daily. For those who prefer to bring their own gear, a reduction is offered on fun dives.

Shore-based facilities include showers and lockers for divers to use between sessions. Dive computers are also available for hire on a daily basis, and GoPro cameras can be rented for underwater filming.

The reefs are teeming with life, including colourful parrotfish (Calotomus), angelfish (Pomacanthidae), and various species of butterflyfish (Chaetodon). You will frequently see schools of snapper (Lutjanus), jackfish (Carangidae), and barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) moving through the water. Large inhabitants such as the Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) and Goliath grouper (Epinephelus itajara) are also part of the local ecosystem.

Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, from nudibranchs (Chromodoris willani) and various shrimps (Caridea) to the ornate ghost pipefish (Solenostomus paradoxus). The crevices and coral structures also host octopus (Octopus vulgaris), crabs (Brachyura), and various species of anemone porcelain crab.

In the deeper or more current-driven areas, the presence of larger pelagics is possible. During the period from December to February, you may encounter manta rays (Mobula alfredi). Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are also a seasonal highlight for the area.

The seascape is defined by healthy corals, including staghorn coral, brain coral, and various soft corals (Alcyonacea). Large barrel sponges and extensive gorgonians provide essential habitats for many of the resident reef fish.

The best time to dive in Havelock is between October and May, when visibility is at its best. From December to April, the conditions are at their peak, with maximum marine activity and calm seas.

During the monsoon season from June to September, the area can experience rougher seas and reduced visibility, making many sites inaccessible. While most sheltered bays like Nemo Reef remain calm, advanced sites such as Johnny's Gorge and Dixon's Pinnacle are subject to strong currents.