Mac Point is one of the rare dive sites in all of India where you might encounter a dugong—the endangered “sea cow” of the ocean. Located on the western side of Havelock Island near Radhanagar Beach, this unique site combines seagrass meadows with coral reef systems, creating an ecosystem unlike any other in the Andamans.
While dugong sightings are never guaranteed (they’re wild, shy creatures), Mac Point offers the highest probability in the region. Even without a dugong encounter, the site rewards divers with excellent turtle sightings, healthy coral formations, and a peaceful underwater environment.
After a scenic 15-30 minute boat ride along Havelock’s western coastline, you descend into a different world. Mac Point is not like the typical coral reef dives. Here, the seagrass meadows create a completely different underwater landscape.
The dive typically starts in the coral zone around 8-10m, where healthy table corals and brain corals are home to the usual reef fish: parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish. But the real magic begins as you drift toward the seagrass beds.
In the seagrass zone, things look different. Turtles are almost guaranteed here. Hawksbills munch on sponges while greens graze on seagrass like underwater cows. Stingrays rest on the sandy patches between grass beds. And if the ocean gods are smiling, you might glimpse the gentle silhouette of a dugong moving through the meadow.
The dive finishes with a slow ascent over the reef, often encountering schools of snappers and fusiliers in the shallows—a good way to finish the dive.
Mac Point is where patience pays off. The dugong isn’t a guaranteed sighting—these are wild, shy animals that can travel miles in a day. But the conditions here are perfect for them: calm waters, rich seagrass, minimal boat traffic. I tell my divers: focus on the turtles, keep your movements slow, scan the meadow edges. If a dugong shows up, you’ll never forget it. If not, you’ve still had one of the most unique dives in Havelock.
Mac Point's unique seagrass ecosystem supports marine life you won't find at coral-only sites
The endangered "sea cow" of the Indian Ocean. These gentle giants can reach 3m and graze on seagrass like underwater manatees. Mac Point offers the best chance in Havelock.
Herbivorous turtles that feed on the seagrass meadows. Often seen grazing slowly, very tolerant of divers who approach calmly.
Smaller than greens, with a distinctive pointed beak. Often seen feeding on sponges in the coral zone. Beautiful shell patterns.
Mac Point features a mixed ecosystem with both traditional coral reef and rare seagrass meadows—a unique combination in Havelock.
Experience Havelock’s unique seagrass ecosystem. Turtles on almost every dive, and a chance to see dugongs if you are lucky.