Dive Sites

Discovering Neil Island's Exquisite Dive Sites

Neil Island, a tropical paradise nestled in the Andaman Sea, is a diver's haven offering an array of captivating underwater landscapes and marine life. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced diver, Neil Island's dive sites promise an unforgettable experience that combines vibrant coral reefs, diverse fish species, and the thrill of exploring the depths. Let's delve into some of the island's most cherished dive sites:


1. Busy Buro: An Underwater Marvel for All Divers


Situated at the northeast of the island, Busy Buro is a must-visit site that caters to divers of all levels. With depths ranging from 18 to 21 meters, it showcases a mesmerizing flat sandy bottom adorned with coral patches. Expect to encounter an abundance of marine life, from playful clownfish and colorful fusiliers to majestic stingrays and intriguing octopuses. The occasional visit by dolphins and eagle rays adds a touch of excitement to your dive. Currents are usually mild to moderate, making it a delightful spot for exploration.


2. Margarita's Mischief: A Pillared Coral Oasis


Dive into the enchanting Margarita's Mischief, a reef that starts at 13 meters and gently descends to 17 meters. This site is a treat for open water divers and beyond. The unique feature of this dive site lies in its captivating coral formations resembling intricate pillars. Amidst the vivid corals, you'll find a bustling community of snappers, triggerfish, and elegant eels. The range of marine life, combined with mild to strong currents, promises an exhilarating underwater adventure.


3. Junction: A Deep Dive for the Experienced


For those seeking a deeper plunge, Junction awaits at depths of 24 to 33 meters. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to the moderate to strong currents that prevail. The circular reef boasts grand fan corals in the depths, alongside impressive sightings of Napoleon wrasses, trevally schools, and graceful stingrays. Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional reef sharks and marvelous rays that make appearances, adding a touch of drama to your exploration.


4. Nursery: A Colorful Haven for Divers of All Levels


Nursery offers a diverse and colorful underwater haven starting from a mere 5 meters, extending to 12 meters. Perfect for beginners and advanced divers alike, this reef showcases a multitude of coral species, including striking Staghorn and plate corals. The lively underwater world is inhabited by blue-spotted stingrays, angel fish, butterfly fish, and playful clownfish. If you're lucky, you might even spot the gentle Dugong gliding gracefully through the waters.


5. Fish Slate: A Vibrant Playground for Beginners


Ideal for beginners, Fish Slate invites divers to explore its colorful reef, stretching from 5 to 9 meters. The vibrant underwater world features parrotfish, fusiliers, groupers, and a lively array of marine creatures. The mild to strong currents add an element of excitement to the dive. Situated near Bharatpur Beach, this site offers a gentle introduction to Neil Island's underwater wonders.


6. K Rock: Exploring Rocky Depths and Corals


Known also as Rockies, K Rock boasts a captivating reef that starts at 14 meters and slopes down to 20 meters. The flat top of the reef showcases stunning corals and a diverse range of fish life, including triggerfish, yellow snappers, and impressive groupers. As you descend to the sandy bottom at 20 meters, larger marine species like Napoleon wrasses come into view. Mild to strong currents provide a dynamic diving experience.


7. Aquarium: A Colorful Underwater Wonderland


Named for its lively and colorful underwater spectacle, Aquarium boasts a flat sandy bottom adorned with small patches of coral reef. With a maximum depth of 9 meters, this site offers an accessible and captivating dive experience. Expect encounters with vibrant fish species and the occasional appearance of gentle stingrays. Situated between Bharatpur and Laxmanpur Beaches, there's also a promising chance of spotting the elusive Dugong.


8. Bus Stop: Diving Delight at Laxmanpur Beach


Close to Laxmanpur Beach lies the beautiful Bus Stop dive site. Ranging from 16 to 20 meters in depth, this site presents a diverse marine ecosystem. At shallower depths, you'll find charming groups of yellow snappers, clownfish, and starfish. As you descend, soft corals, lionfish, barrel sponges, and stingrays await, creating a multi-dimensional dive experience that caters to all skill levels.


Embrace the Wonders of Neil Island's Dive Sites


Embark on an underwater journey like no other as you explore Neil Island's enchanting dive sites. Whether you're a novice or an experienced diver, these sites offer a symphony of marine life, vivid corals, and currents that promise an exhilarating dive adventure. Dive into the depths and discover the secrets of Neil Island's remarkable underwater world.