As Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) prepares for a high profile underwater Guinness World Record attempt today, past global benchmarks in similar categories offer context to the scale and ambition of the exercise planned in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The attempt was timed to coincide with Iraq’s National Day, adding symbolic significance to the technical challenge. Conducted in open water conditions, the record required precise coordination among divers to unfold and stabilize a massive flag underwater, an operation that tested buoyancy control, current management, and synchronized movement.
This record now stands as the benchmark that organisers in Havelock aim to surpass, with preparations underway for a larger underwater flag display scheduled this morning.
Parallel to flag-based records, underwater human formations have also evolved significantly over the years. The current record for the largest underwater human pyramid involves 65 scuba divers and was set on November 11, 2023, near Kradan Island in Thailand. The attempt was organised by Ammara Siriphong in collaboration with MCM Communication.
This achievement marked an improvement over earlier records, including a 62 diver formation created in 2013 near Koh Tao, illustrating a steady progression in both scale and technical execution. These records demand not only physical endurance but also high levels of training and underwater communication, as divers must maintain formation stability while dealing with pressure, visibility, and time constraints.
The Guinness World Records process for such attempts is stringent. Organisers are required to submit detailed documentation in advance, covering safety protocols, participant structure, timing, and evidence collection plans. Once approved, the execution must be monitored by independent witnesses and surface observers, while underwater footage is recorded for verification.
For the upcoming Havelock attempt, similar protocols are in place. Divers will operate within tightly defined time windows, with multiple observation teams stationed both onshore and offshore. Video documentation and participant counts will form a critical part of the validation process.
Preparations for the Andaman event began nearly two months ago, focusing on dive readiness, buoyancy control, and coordination drills. Technical scuba operations are being handled by Dive Andaman, while logistical arrangements, including accommodation and event coordination, are managed by Havelock Island Beach Resort.
The event is also expected to see participation from senior officials, including Lt. Governor Admiral D.K. Joshi, along with representatives from tourism, hospitality, and transport sectors. Certified scuba divers from across the islands form the core of the participating teams.
With global benchmarks now clearly defined, the Havelock attempt is positioned not just as a record-breaking exercise but also as a showcase of the islands’ diving capabilities and tourism potential. Whether it surpasses the existing records or not, the effort reflects a growing trend of combining adventure tourism with internationally recognised feats beneath the sea.
