Snorkelling
Snorkeling in Andaman Islands at Top Locations
Andaman Islands is one of the best places to snorkel. Snorkeling in Andaman is another famous activity as the reefs here in Andaman starts at a very low depth, making it easier for people who want to do snorkeling. Guides accompany you during the snorkeling at any location in Andaman.
Snorkeling in the Andaman Islands is done at all the islands, namely Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Island. Guides accompany you during snorkeling. Designated areas are defined for snorkeling and these areas are closely monitored for safety of travelers and the corals are well.
Snorkeling is the process of swimming on or through an entire body of water while outfitted with a designed tube known as a snorkel, and generally swim fins. Utilizing this equipment permits the snorkeller to notice underwater attractions for extended time periods with comparatively small effort. You breathe through the designed tube. Snorkeling is also used by scuba divers when on the surface area and rescue teams may snorkel as part of a water-based search.
A snorkel is a tube around 30 cm long and with an on the inside diameter of between 1.5 and 2.5 centimeters, generally L or J-shaped and fixed with a mouthpiece at the lower end, and designed of rubber or plastic. It is applied for breathing air from over the water surface area when the wearer’s mouth area and nose are submerged. The snorkel generally has a part of rubber that connects the snorkel to the outside of the strap of the diving mask since pushing the snorkel between mask-strap and the head can cause the mask to leak.
Currently, in 2020 full masks have come in the islands, making it easier for travellers to breathe and to view the corals. Below are the top places where snorkeling is permitted in Andaman.
Snorkeling at North Bay Island - Port Blair
North Bay island is a popular destination in Port Blair. The beach and the snorkeling opportunities in its fringing coral reefs are the closest ones you will find at Port Blair. A ferry will take you across Aberdeen Jetty and bring you back. The corals at North Bay Island are rather good and spread over a large area. You are very likely to spot many fish, a lobster, or even clams on the coral reef. Snacks and basic meals are available in some shacks on the beach.
Life rings or jackets are provided during your snorkeling trip. A guide assists you while you snorkel. You do not require swimming skills to do this activity through swimming skills can help.
Snorkeling at Elephant Beach - Havelock Island
Snorkel pristine and undamaged reefs, right off white sandy beaches. The beach here offers calm blue crystal clear shallow waters and is an amazing spot for snorkelers. The reefs are in pristine condition and with a little exploration, you can find corals in the same way they were formed. You can charter a boat, join groups, or trek to reach Elephant Beach. The guide assists you during your trip to Elephant Beach. This is the second-best attraction at Havelock Island after Radhanagar Beach. You may even carry your own equipment required to snorkel here. All boats anchored at Elephant Beach are expected to return back by 1600 Hrs.
The trip includes a boat ride from Havelock Jetty or trekking to Elephant beach and return, guide assistance and Snorkel equipment are provided.
Snorkeling at JollyBouy Island/Red Skin Island - Port Blair - No more operational
One of the most famous destinations at Port Blair is the Jolly Bouy Island. At Jolly Buoy, you get to see corals (red, blue, sponge corals etc). Also, you will be able to see life within these corals (particularly zebrafish). There is another island called Red Skin Island. Both of these islands are open for 6 months alternatively for the tourists. The time duration is usually from November – April for Jolly Bouy Island and from May – October for Red Skin Island. These are tentative months and can change without any prior notice.
The trip includes a boat ride to JollyBouy/ Red Skin Island including glass-bottom boat ride to reach the shore. The trip begins at Wandoor jetty, which is approximately 25 km from the main city. A forest permit and ticket are required to book this trip. The tickets can be purchased just one day before. You are required to stand in a queue at the Tourism Office to purchase the ticket. Photo ID proof is required to book the tickets. Your travel agent can book the ticket on your behalf.