Andaman Tourism Opens: The Andaman & Nicobar administration has announced that all tourist spots in the South Andaman district will be opened for tourism activities with immediate effect 8 Feb 2022.
The tourists are allowed to visit Baratang/North & Middle Andaman on production of double dose covid certificate/ All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report
General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :
What are the guidelines for testing for tourists coming to Andaman after August 03 2021?
On arrival at Port Blair :
1. The tourists need to carry COVID-19 negative test report from mainland based 1CMR approved lab using Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). However, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to starting the journey from the origin station. (For e.g. if the tourist takes a flight from Delhi at 0600 hrs. on 1st September, 2021, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken not before 0600 hrs. on 30th August, 2021).
2. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in
institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&N Administration, on rates as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid-19 care centre on case-to-case basis.
3. Tourists may also have to undergo random Rapid Antigen Test conducted from time to time on payment basis as prescribed by A8N Administration.
What if the tourists test positive after arriving at the Andaman Islands?
If the tourists tests positive during their stay in the Islands, he/she will need to undergo institutional isolation as per existing health protocols. The
cost of such isolation for govt. facility will be paid by the tourists as fixed by the administration from time to time.
If the patient wants to stay at hotels, he/she can stay in the hotels if all the conditions below are met:
a) Patients are not symptomatic and not more than 60 years old.
b) Request/ undertaking is made by patient in writing.
c)lf allowed by doctors.
Hotels will make necessary arrangements to designate a part of their rooms for institutional isolation for this purpose.
A vacation in the Andaman Islands is perfect for everyone- be it families, couples, friends, or solo. The cherry on the cake, this island is a paradise for those who are adventure junkies and breathe adventure in every breath. While holidaying in the Andamans, including this adventure water activity in your itinerary is always a great idea as you get to witness the marine life at its best here. Snorkeling is one such water activity that lets you experience total bliss under the water!
Snorkeling is one of the most popular water activities in the world. In India, the Andaman Islands are known for having the best spots. The Andamans are surrounded by underwater coastal belts, which are home to a dense ecosystem of coral reefs and formations. A good chunk of visitors is attracted to the isles owing to excellent diving opportunities, along with calm and peaceful beaches, as well as delicious seafood.
The most preferred activity among tourists visiting the Andaman Islands, snorkeling, or in simple words, swimming under the clear waters of the island, is a great way to have a mesmerising experience. The beauty of the colourful coral reefs and the underwater flora and fauna take you to a completely new world. If you want to experience aesthetic marine life at its best, then this island is your one-stop destination.
The act of swimming through or on the water, while equipped with a mask and snorkel, is known as snorkeling. You can see clearly under the water with your mask. A special hollow tube with a mouthpiece on the end called a snorkel, allows you to breathe the surface air while your head is down. You can also wear fins.
Snorkeling is the best water activity if you want to explore the underwater world in a casual and convenient way, unlike scuba diving wherein one has to bear the weight of a heavy cylinder. The best part is that it is extremely easy to do. Just wear your snorkel gear and get into the water. With the help of a snorkel, you can swim while breathing with your body and face submerged underwater. This will allow you to witness colourful fish with whom you can swim as well. Just keep in mind that you are confined to staying on the surface. Otherwise, the breathing tube (snorkel) will get filled up with water.
There are majorly 2 types of snorkeling– shore snorkeling and boat snorkeling. Both of them have their own pros and cons. If you are interested in going for snorkeling in the Andamans, then let us first explain about them so that you can pick the right option for yourself.
If you are a newbie and are not so much comfortable in the water, then go for this option. All you have to do is just wear your gear and start walking towards the water on the beach. It is cheaper as well since you only have to find a good local beach or bay and get inside the water. It is easily accessible and more convenient. You can also take breaks in between to grab snacks or take a rest. You get to do it on your time and on your own terms when you choose to spend your day at snorkeling beaches.
In this type of snorkeling, a boat takes you to the diving site which is a bit far from the shore. Once you have reached, then you have to jump from the boat into the water and start snorkeling. This type of snorkeling lets you witness clear waters and thus, better visibility. You can explore more and more and glide amidst interesting reefs and marine life. Boat snorkeling is an ideal option for you if you are an experienced diver or are really interested in a quality experience. While it’s not guaranteed but boat snorkeling increases your chances of seeing larger creatures in their natural habitat. As it offers a better and more thrilling experience, boat snorkeling is a bit costlier than shore snorkeling.
|
S.no. |
Details |
Cost (in Rs.) |
|
1. |
Snorkelling excursion (2 sites, boat) |
5,500 |
|
2. |
Snorkelling off the boat (1 site) |
3,500 |
|
3. |
Snorkelling off the shore (1 site) |
2,000 |
Prices are valid till March 31, 2024. 18% GST Applicable
Visible marine life while snorkeling
The Andaman Islands are known for their rich marine world. Ranging from colourful corals to giant fish, its azure waters are home to a wide variety of aquatic life. While snorkeling in its waters, you can witness vibrant marine life including coral reefs (Acropora, Montipora, Pocillopora, Porites, Goniopora, Favia, Fungia, Millepora, Soft Coral (Sarcophyton sp.), starfish, clownfish, sea anemones, jellyfish, lionfish, pipefish, oysters, clams, giant parrot fish, sea snakes, stingrays, lobsters, and a lot more. Apart from that, you can spot schools of colourful fish that usually let you swim along with them. How cool would that be!
Snorkeling in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Havelock Island is known for having various outstanding locations that are great spots for snorkeling. Going under these waters is exactly the type of experience that you are looking for. One of the best places for snorkeling in the Andaman Islands, Havelock Island is the most popular spot for snorkeling. Some of the beaches here are excellent for viewing rich marine life. The best ones include Elephant Beach and Turtle Beach, which are the main attractions for snorkeling in the Andamans. As the waters here are quite shallow (beginning at as little as one-meter depth), snorkeling here is perfect for beginners. It is completely different from other locations as you can see long strips of coral belts with the perfect blend of hard as well as soft coral population.
Nemo Reef is undoubtedly the best site in Havelock Island for beginners, who want to take their first plunge into the underwater world and learn snorkeling. It is a sheltered bay that has clear visibility and little to no current. The reef somehow offers swimming pool-like conditions to newbies for confined water training and introductory dive experiences. Here, you can spot energetic little Damselfish as well as big humphead parrotfish munching on a coral. There are mangroves nearby that are home to all kinds of marine creatures. If you are an adventure lover, then you should definitely try your hand at snorkeling here. It is among the best diving spots across the Andaman Islands.
Tribe Gate
A small submerged seamount surrounded on all sides by sand, Tribe Gate is a popular snorkeling site in Havelock Island. Its rich marine life includes scribbled filefish, yellowtail barracuda, striped surgeonfish, Beaufort’s crocodile flathead, unicornfish, banded sea kraits, etc. Along with that, you can also spot sergeant major damsels and fusilier school. Explore the underwater world for an hour while snorkeling in the azure waters of Tribe Gate. Before anything, a professional session of snorkeling will be conducted by experts. After that, you can take a dive and explore the unexplored.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are famous among adventure seekers owing to the diversity of water sports one can experience here. Having a multitude of activities available for one and all, no one can get bored on this little piece of paradise. Snorkeling is one such water sport that you should definitely try on Elephant Beach during your vacation here. This site offers the best snorkeling experience on the islands owing to the clear visibility underwater, and rich marine life. You can notice the colourful reefs of the ocean shining through your underwater goggles. You can have a look at underwater life and the rarest corals while performing this activity at Elephant Beach. All you need to do is just put on your mask and fins and gear up for the underwater dive.
If you are a nature lover along with an adrenaline junkie as well, then you should know that Turtle Beach is counted among the best places for snorkeling in Havelock Island. Your trip to this island would be incomplete without a dip in its serene waters that is oozing with rich marine life. Its marine life is quite famous and thus, considered perfect for snorkeling. The corals are exceptionally attractive. Swimming freely in its waters surrounded by colourful underwater creatures is something that you will not forget ever. It’s like swimming in a huge aquarium. Especially for divers, the biggest reason to travel to this island is to witness the charming waters.
Barracuda City
For beginners, this is simply the best spot for diving. It is completely different from other locations as you can see long strips of coral belts with the perfect blend of hard as well as soft coral population. Its rich ecosystem offers tons of fish of diverse species and colors. And if you are lucky enough, then you can spot wandering sea turtles near the corals. If you are seeking a highly unique and terrific experience, then Barracuda City is the perfect spot for you.
Turtle Bay
As evident from the name, Turtle Bay has plenty of sea turtles. Moreover, you can also spot corals and rays in abundance here. This spot is perfect for you if you are a true lover of natural marine life. The depth of water doesn’t exceed fourteen meters, thus making it a decent destination for inexperienced divers.
Seduction Point
A huge underwater rock displaying an ample range of marine life is what describes this hilly underwater world the best. Snorkelers looking for something exclusive should know that this is a perfect diving spot in Havelock Island owing to the shallow water, a large number of inhabitants including Napoleons, and a dense population of hard staghorn corals.
Mac Point
Popular for hard corals and small groups of fish, you can reach this place by boat. The capital animal of Andaman, Dugong, which is also known as the sea cow, can be easily spotted here. Hands down, this is a great snorkeling spot in the Andamans.
Aquarium
Promising a lot to beginners, this spot is a bit offshore at a distance of three kilometres from Elephant Beach. It houses fringing reefs that are crowded with large groups of colourful fish. You can see hard corals here in its clear water which is perfect for a good view of marine life.
The Wall
Allowing for a very unique view of the underwater world, this is a huge underwater rock that drops down to 56 meters. If you want to have an extraordinary snorkeling experience in the Andaman Islands, then The Wall is a great place, which is covered with soft corals and highly rich marine life.
Minerva Ledge
It is simply described as an enormous block of hard corals in clear waters, with sea dwellers including sharks. The site is only recommended for experienced snorkelers. It promises a rare glimpse of the underwater kingdom along with an enthralling diving experience.
Pilot Reef
Only recommended for experienced snorkelers, this is a long strip of the underwater canyon, which is nearly 24 meters deep. It is known for having abundant hard corals along with unique fish such as leopard sharks and whitetip sharks among others.
Lighthouse
If you want to witness the perfect balance of vibrant fish and soft & hard corals, then this is your one-stop destination. The water is shallow but gets deeper as you move farther from the shore. You can snorkel at night also since the water clarity is great here.
Haven’t tried snorkeling yet? No problem! Probably, you were destined to do this water activity at the best place in India–North Bay Island. You will notice the colourful reefs of the ocean shining through your underwater goggles. You can have a look at marine life and the rarest corals while performing this activity in the Andaman Islands. The real treasure lies under the pristine blue waters. All you need to do is poke your head in and you will be soon transported to a superb marine world full of colourful corals. You will spot some of the most diverse sets of aquatic animals you will ever have witnessed. If you are a diving enthusiast, then snorkeling in Port Blair is almost religious for you. The experience offers a splendid peek into the exotic marine life full of colourful corals and lovely fish.
Red skin Island
One of the fifteen beaches found inside the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park of Port Blair, Red Skin Island is located adjacent to Jolly Buoy Island. This island is like a tiny paradise on earth where you can enjoy relaxed quality time. Tourists from all over the world visit Red Skin Island owing to the picturesque beach and adjoining forest that make it a picture-perfect holiday. The island is home to abundant red coral reefs, aquatic animals, tropical plants, white sandy beaches, and azure water. Its blue waters offer an impressive view of corals and marine life. Thus, it is popular among snorkelers. Red Skin Island is a great day trip from Port Blair if you are looking for a fun day at a secluded beach. Kindly note that you cannot stay here at night.
North Bay Island/Coral Island
If you are a nature lover or marine life enthusiast, then you will be amazed to see the lovely coral reefs that are extremely appealing. If you consider yourself a water baby and the ocean is your second home, then North Bay Island should be on your list when you are in the Andaman Islands. The splendour of coral reefs is sure to take your breath away. This island is a paradise for adventure seekers. Adrenaline junkies can spend quality time enjoying the sights of nature while basking under the sun as well.
South Button Island National Park
This island should be on your list when you are in Port Blair. Straight out of a fairytale, South Button Island is a stunning islet that is a part of the Rani Jhansi Marine National Park. It is popular for snorkeling owing to its rich marine life, healthy coral population, and shallow depths. If you are lucky, then you can spot here Snappers, Barracuda, Trevally, Sweetlips, Groupers, Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Turtles, Devil Rays and Manta Rays. Tourists are not allowed to climb the rocky outcrops on this island. You can spot white-bellied Sea Eagles flying high. You can visit this awe-inspiring island on a day trip from Port Blair.
On your Jolly Buoy Island tour, snorkeling would be the most fantastic adventure activity to get indulged in. The island gives amazing underwater opportunities to snorkelers for enjoying exotic corals and marine life in the turquoise waters of the island. The place is highly rich in corals and has crystal clear waters. You can appreciate the beauty of marine life from close and capture the memories forever in your heart and mind.
Visit this incredible island when you are in Port Blair and are seeking a magical snorkeling experience. Barren Island is home to manta rays, interesting basalt formations, the topography of past lava flows, and fast-growing coral gardens. This destination is obviously remote but it is definitely worth your time, effort, and money. You can opt for day tours on private charters. With the prior permission of the department concerned, the island can be accessed by visitors.
After obtaining the necessary permits and making the needed arrangements, snorkeling can be conducted under the guidance of an expert, licensed and trained professionals. This adventurous activity is extremely engaging and may take a couple of hours. So you need to plan everything in advance. You can do snorkeling during the journey wherein expert guides will be present with you during this excursion.
For snorkeling, pristine clear water is required, which is in abundance on Neil Island. Its water proves to be an ideal setting for this adventurous water activity. When you are in Neil Island, you can see a wide diversity of colorful fishes with your naked eyes. The corals are present in abundance here. There are certain beach resorts also that offer private snorkeling sessions to their guests. Having superbly beautiful beaches, Neil Island is the one-stop destination for those travellers who would prefer a rather quaint spot that is bursting with flora and fauna. It is a pristine location for those craving peaceful alone time. Its underwater allows you to take a look at the rich aquatic life. Snorkeling would be a great addition to your travel stories. Surrounded by rich marine life is something that you get to experience very rarely.
Bharatpur Beach here is known for its beautiful and colourful coral formation. That’s why, the population of fish is more here. This beach is a must-visit on this island owing to the coral population. Bharatpur Beach is one such attraction where you can choose to relax or go snorkeling. Its warm and cobalt waters are perfect for exciting water activities.
Kalipur Beach has good conditions for indulging in a number of adventurous water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, etc. Make sure that you carry all the required things with you while going for it (towel, water bottle, extra set of clothes, personal medicine kit, if needed). Before going into the water, check the weather conditions first as it is a tropical location. Also, go with an expert if you are trying snorkeling for the first time.
Book your snorkeling trip with us!
Duration of snorkeling
We, at Dive Andaman, offer you a fun-filled snorkeling experience of 1 hour. In these 60 minutes, you can witness a wide variety of marine life including tropical fish and colourful corals. Enjoy your time to the fullest!
High-quality snorkeling equipment
Dive Andaman will offer you the best quality equipment. We provide top-notch snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins, to ensure optimal comfort and performance. Our gear is regularly maintained and sanitized to ensure hygiene and safety.
Underwater photography & videography
Want to cherish your underwater memories forever? We provide professional underwater photography and videography services. Our expert photographers can capture your remarkable underwater experiences, allowing you to relive the magic over and over again.
You can visit this island at any time of the year. Although, the best time to visit would be during the winter season (between November and May) as it is the ideal time to indulge in water activities. The temperature of the water is 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, which is perfect to be in the water.
During your vacation in the dazzling Andaman Island, don’t forget to go for one of the finest snorkeling experiences in India.
If you are always ready for an adventure and excited to explore what our wonderful planet has to offer, then snorkeling sounds like a perfect activity for you. While discovering the incredible marine life, you will challenge yourself at so many levels you wouldn’t have even imagined–both physically and mentally. Your underwater experience will boost all your senses and open your eyes to a whole new magical world! That’s why, we would suggest you to book a snorkeling slot and go for this wonderful water sport as soon as you can. If you are already on a beach holiday, then snorkeling will add some extra adventure to your vacation. You can discover new underwater sceneries and species. Whether you are travelling alone, with your partner or the entire family, snorkeling is something that most people would agree to do.
The Andaman Islands is a year-round destination. However, the best time for snorkeling on the island is during the winter season—from November to May. The temperature during these months varies between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius and is perfect for sightseeing and indulging in exciting water sports. It is also the ideal time to visit the Andaman Islands.
The Andaman Islands is home to an amazing marine life comprising wonderful creatures and colorful corals. Some of the best spots for trying your hand at snorkeling in the Andaman Islands are as follows:
Tips for snorkeling in the Andamans are as follows:
For beginners, snorkeling in the Andamans is absolutely safe. Whether you are a kid or an adult, everybody can go for it under the guidance of experienced professionals.
The usual recommended minimum age for snorkeling in the Andamans is between twelve to fifteen years. Most importantly, the child should feel comfortable in the water.
Light on your pocket, the cost of snorkeling in the Andaman Islands begins from Rs.1,000 per person. The price varies depending on the duration and location of your dive. If you are willing to go for an extensive snorkeling experience in the Andamans, then it would cost you more. This water sport is definitely worth your money.
For snorkeling in the Andamans, it is not at all mandatory to know swimming. Non-swimmers can do it without any difficulty. Before going for it, you are given brief training by a licensed diver wherein you are taught some crucial techniques. Listen and follow these instructions carefully.
Snorkeling is an enthralling water sport that can be performed by swimmers as well as non-swimmers. You can participate in it alone or with your friends and family members. It is the perfect way to spend a fun-filled afternoon in the Andamans with your close ones. While snorkeling, you go into the water to observe the incredible marine wildlife and corals of the island. All you need are fins, a mask, and a snorkel. If you have decided to swim closer to the ocean floor, then you can wear a protective suit.
Having the right equipment is so important and when you have it, then snorkeling in the Andaman Islands is going to be mesmerising experience for you. You don’t have to devote a lot of time to learn it. You can snorkel as soon as you get inside the water. The best part, this adventure water sport makes you burn your calories as well. You get to have into the water without breaking a sweat. Snorkeling is a great activity to enjoy with your loved ones. This experience is for your whole life!
Snorkeling is a highly rewarding and simple water activity. But there are a few precautions that you must take before actually going into the water. These are as follows:
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the one-stop destination in India for witnessing marine life at its best. The Indian Ocean has a lot to offer and you can experience the splendor in the Andaman Islands. The best sites for snorkeling are scattered on this gorgeous island. Just learn the basics and obtain the required equipment on rent from centers. Moreover, snorkeling in the Andamans is not at all a costly affair. Not burning a hole in your pocket, you can encounter a treasure beyond your imagination while snorkeling.
Snorkeling in the Andamans can be done by everyone. The age limit doesn’t spoil your plans. Generally, everyone between the age of 4 and 60 is allowed to go for this fun-filled water activity.
Andamans is home to a number of awesome spots for diving. A good snorkel site is one that has the perfect balance of beauty and safety. Before beginning your adventure, you should consider the below-mentioned factors:
Categories of people who are not allowed to snorkel on the island are as follows:
Taking a dip inside the waters of the island will leave you awestruck with the underwater kaleidoscopic colours and the quietude of the ocean. This activity has the perfect combination of adventure and fun. A must-try here, swimming with colorful marine creatures is surely an experience of a lifetime.
When on this stunning island, including snorkeling in your itinerary is a great idea. It is because the Andamans has an incredible and rich marine life that is hard to find anywhere else in the country. Also, it is more affordable than scuba diving and you don’t need any complex equipment for it.
The difficulty level for snorkeling on the island is easy to moderate. Anyone can do it after a brief training session.
The unique topography of the Andaman Islands makes the snorkeling experience hard to get anywhere else. Most of its beaches are enclosed by long stretches of reefs that are hundreds of meters wide and are separated by the shore with shallow waters. Some of them are complemented by volcanic lava hills as well!
In the Andamans, the alive and untouched corals are home to the world’s most vivacious marine dwellers and fish that may pop out from the azure ocean and display a gorgeous scene around the snorkeler. The abundance of corals and fish often enclose the diver from all directions that is enough to leave him in wonder and awe. The credit goes to the protection offered by the Andaman Administration.
The Andaman Islands are popular for a number of outstanding locations that are perfect spots for diving. Going under these waters is exactly the type of experience that you are looking for. Some of the best diving sites are mentioned below:
The Andamans is a great place for trying your hand at snorkeling. It is absolutely safe to do snorkeling here. The licensed divers will brief you before you do it.
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