Ocean Tribe Scuba, Dickson Poayesay

Ocean Tribe Scuba is situated on Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. Established in 2011, the centre is deeply rooted in the local community, having been founded by Jackson and Dickson Poayesay, brothers from the local Karen community, alongside an engineer from Pune.

This connection to the islands means the team possesses an intimate understanding of the local waters. The centre has built a reputation over more than a decade by prioritising safety and a personalised approach, ensuring that you are never part of a rushed or overcrowded dive.

The team consists of four instructors who manage everything from introductory programmes to professional training. Their approach is built on the philosophy that the ocean is the primary teacher, focusing on building diver confidence through structured, attentive guidance.

As an official SSI dive resort, the centre provides a professional environment for those looking to progress through the ranks. They have a long history of training dive professionals, making them a reliable choice for those pursuing a career in the industry.

The course catalogue is extensive, covering the full spectrum of SSI certifications. Beginners can start with the SSI Basic Diver programme or move straight into the Open Water Diver course.

For those looking to advance their skills, the centre offers Advanced Open Water Diver, Deep Diver, Navigation, and Wreck specialties. Safety and rescue training are also central to their curriculum, with the Diver Stress & Rescue and React Right specialty available.

Professional divers can undertake the Divemaster programme or explore the academic side of the sport through the Science of Diving course.

The centre offers a full range of equipment for hire, ensuring you can dive without needing to transport your own heavy kit. This includes regulators, wetsuits, fins, and masks.

For those interested in night diving, torches are available to rent. The facility is set up to support a wide variety of diver needs, from beginners to those completing more advanced specialties.

The reefs around Havelock are home to a variety of colourful reef fish. At sites like Tribe Gate, you can frequently observe clownfish, fusiliers, and rabbitfish moving through the coral structures.

The underwater scenery is defined by healthy coral growth, providing a complex habitat for various species. These reef environments support a high level of biodiversity, which is a hallmark of the Andaman Islands.

The centre offers night diving, allowing you to experience the reef under different light conditions. The local sites vary in character, from shallow reef flats to more established dive sites.