Nursery Dive Site - Neil Island

Protected shallow reef serving as natural nursery for juvenile fish with 90% live coral coverage.

About Nursery

Protected shallow reef serving as natural nursery for juvenile fish with 90% live coral coverage.

Experience this stunning dive site with Turquoise Dream - Neil Island's premier PADI dive center.

Maximum Depth: 12 meters

Visibility: 15 meters

Skill Level: non swimmer

Discover diverse underwater species: (view all)

Overview

The Nursery lives up to its name as a protected shallow reef where juvenile fish find shelter and grow. Starting from just 5 meters and extending to 12 meters, this site offers a diverse and colorful underwater haven perfect for all diving levels.

Why "Nursery"?

This site serves as a natural nursery for:

  • Juvenile Fish: Protected areas for young fish to develop
  • Coral Propagation: New coral growth flourishes here
  • Marine Education: Perfect training ground for new divers

Coral Paradise

Dominant Species

  • Staghorn Corals: Extensive branching formations
  • Plate Corals: Terraced structures creating swim-throughs
  • Table Corals: Large flat-topped colonies
  • Brain Corals: Massive rounded formations
  • Mushroom Corals: Individual polyps on sandy areas

Coral Health

The Nursery boasts some of the healthiest corals in the Andamans:

  • 90% live coral coverage
  • Minimal bleaching
  • Active spawning site
  • Natural coral nursery

Marine Life Spectacle

Common Encounters

  • Blue-spotted Stingrays: Hiding in sandy patches
  • Angelfish: Emperor, Blue-ring, and Yellow-mask
  • Butterflyfish: Over 8 species identified
  • Clownfish: 3 different species with anemones
  • Parrotfish: Constant coral grazers
  • Surgeonfish: Blue tangs and Powder blues

Rare Sightings

  • Dugongs: Occasional visitors (early morning)
  • Sea Turtles: Green and Hawksbill
  • Guitar Sharks: Sandy bottom dwellers
  • Frogfish: Masters of disguise

Perfect for Beginners

Why Choose Nursery?

  • Shallow Depths: Maximum 12m, average 8m
  • Calm Waters: Protected from currents
  • High Visibility: Usually 15-20m
  • Easy Navigation: Clear reference points
  • Abundant Life: Guaranteed fish sightings

Photography Paradise

Macro Opportunities

  • Nudibranchs (15+ species)
  • Shrimp and crabs
  • Juvenile fish
  • Coral polyps

Wide Angle Scenes

  • Coral gardens
  • Schools of fish
  • Rays on sand
  • Sunlight rays through water

Conservation Notes

The Nursery is a protected breeding ground:

  • No touching corals or marine life
  • Maintain perfect buoyancy
  • No gloves allowed
  • Follow local conservation guidelines

Best Diving Practices

  • Time: Early morning for Dugong chances
  • Tide: High tide for best visibility
  • Duration: 50-60 minutes average
  • Certification: Open Water or Discover Scuba

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