Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be face-to-face with a clownfish, or watch a sea turtle, as if it owns the ocean? That’s what snorkelling in Port Bair Andaman Islands offers — a chance to peek into an entirely different world, all while floating at the surface. No heavy scuba tanks, no complicated training, just a mask, fins, and a curious heart.
And here’s the best part: you don’t have to be an expert swimmer to enjoy it. Even first-timers, with a little guidance, can feel the rush of floating above colorful reefs. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a solo break, honeymoon travel, or a trip with friends, snorkelling here adds a memory you’ll want to replay long after you’ve left the islands. Many travelers also book their experience as part of a complete Andaman holiday package or even customized Andaman and Nicobar islands tour packages through a travel agency for an Andaman trip.
So, let’s dive in — where to snorkel, what to expect, how much it costs, and the little tips that turn a good experience into a great one.
Snorkelling here is possible almost year-round, but the sweet spot is between October and May. During these months, the sea stays calmer, the sky clearer, and visibility in the water at its best.
Monsoons (June to September) aren’t ideal. Heavy rains can reduce visibility and sometimes lead to restrictions on Adventure water sports activities for safety reasons.
So, if snorkelling is on your list, plan your Andaman trip in the dry season. This way you spend less time worrying about weather cancellations and more time floating above the reefs.
If you’re wondering, “Where should I actually snorkel in Andaman?”—the good news is you’re spoilt for choice. Each island has its own flavour, and depending on whether you want calm waters or a vibrant reef, there’s a spot waiting for you.
👉 Elephant Beach, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
This one’s the crowd favourite. Picture yourself walking along a soft sandy stretch, slipping on your mask, and within a few strokes spotting corals just a few metres from shore. The waters are shallow, which makes it beginner-friendly. If you’re a little nervous, guides are always around to make you feel comfortable.
👉 Bharatpur Beach, Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
This is the lagoon that looks like it belongs on a postcard. The water is usually so clear that even before dipping your head in, you can see shoals of fish moving beneath. Corals here are gentler, colourful, and surrounded by playful reef fish—great for relaxed snorkelling.
👉 North Bay Island, near Port Blair
Heard of the lighthouse on the Indian 20-rupee note? That’s here. A short boat ride takes you to this spot, where the reef is lively and full of variety. It’s a good choice if you don’t want to travel too far from the capital. Many tourists club their visit with water sports in Port Blair such as parasailing Andaman and sea-walking, along with Snorkeling.
👉 Jolly Buoy & Red Skin Islands
Part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, these islands have some of the healthiest corals. They are protected, so entry is limited, but that also means fewer crowds and cleaner waters.
Each site feels different—Elephant Beach is buzzing, Neil Island is calm, North Bay is convenient, and Jolly Buoy feels untouched. Which one would you choose first?
|
Spot |
What’s Notable |
Estimated Cost |
Best Time |
|
Elephant Beach |
Shallow, clear, beginner-friendly |
Variable; part of tour packages (INR 1000/person) |
Dec–Mar |
|
North Bay Island |
Coral spread, near Port Blair |
~INR 500/person |
Dec–Mar |
|
South Button Island |
Less crowded, deeper corals |
INR 600–4,000+ |
Dec–Apr |
|
Neil Island (Bharatpur) |
Rich reef, guided, no swim skill needed |
INR 700–1,500 |
Oct–Feb |
|
Red Skin / Jolly Buoy |
Protected, clear water, short free snorkeling |
Often complimentary, further cost |
Typically tourist season |
|
Kalipur (North Andaman) |
Tranquil, possible turtle/octopus sighting |
- |
- |
|
Henry Lawrence Island |
Pristine, varied marine life |
INR 700–1,500 |
Nov–May |
|
Little Andaman |
Budget snorkeling |
From INR 1,100 |
- |
So, what exactly will you see once you dip your face underwater? The answer: a living, breathing world that looks nothing like the surface.
🐠 Reef Fish – Ever seen “Nemo”? Clownfish are one of the first residents you’ll likely meet, darting in and out of their anemone homes. Look out for the flashy parrotfish too—they’re the reef’s artists, nibbling corals and adding colour to the scenery. Schools of butterflyfish, surgeonfish, and angelfish will often glide past in groups, like moving rainbows.
🌊 Corals – Think of corals as the underwater architecture. Some look like deer antlers, others like giant boulders with maze-like patterns. Soft corals sway gently in the current, and together they form a vibrant city where all the fish live.
⭐ Sea Creatures on the Seabed – Don’t forget to glance down once in a while. Starfish spread lazily on the sand, sea cucumbers wriggle slowly, and sea urchins sit like spiky black dots. They may not be as colourful, but they’re just as important to the ecosystem.
🐢 Special Guests – Every now and then, snorkellers are rewarded with a surprise. Imagine spotting a hawksbill turtle gliding peacefully or catching sight of a stingray on the sandy bottom. These encounters aren’t guaranteed, but they’re the kind of moments you’ll never forget.
The best part? No two snorkelling trips are the same. One day you might be surrounded by hundreds of tiny fish, the next you might come face to face with a sea turtle. That’s what keeps the Andaman waters magical.
Snorkelling looks effortless—you float, breathe, and watch the underwater show. But a few small tips can make the difference between a rushed dip and a truly memorable experience.
✅ Choose the Right Spot for Your Comfort Level
If it’s your first time, pick calm-water beaches like Elephant Beach or Bharatpur. The currents are mild, the seabed is shallow, and help is always nearby. Once you get comfortable, you can try slightly deeper waters like Jolly Buoy or North Bay.
✅ Listen to the Local Guides
They may repeat the same safety lines to every group, but trust me, those reminders matter. From how to clear water from your snorkel to where not to step (corals are fragile!), guides are your best friends underwater.
✅ Gear Check Before You Jump In
Mask too loose? Snorkel tilted? Fins tight? Fix these on land, not in the water. A foggy mask or leaky snorkel can distract you from the very reason you came—to enjoy. Pro tip: rub a little anti-fog solution (or even diluted baby shampoo) inside your mask before heading in.
✅ Respect the Ocean
Avoid touching corals, chasing fish, or picking up shells. Corals are living beings, and even a small kick with your fin can break them. Observing without interfering ensures both you and the reef stay safe.
✅ Timing is Everything
Early mornings are usually best—clear waters, calmer tides, and fewer crowds. Avoid late evening swims; strong tides and low visibility make it unsafe.
These safety rules apply not just to snorkelling but also to adventure sports in Andaman like kayaking in Havelock, scuba diving, and jet ski in Andaman.
The goal isn’t to “do” snorkelling quickly—it’s to float, breathe slowly, and let the underwater life come to you. The slower you go, the more you see.
Now, let’s talk practical. How much does snorkelling in Andaman actually cost? Well, it depends on where you go and how you want to experience it.
💰 Basic Beach Snorkelling
On popular beaches like Elephant Beach (Havelock) or Bharatpur Beach (Neil), you’ll find local operators offering snorkelling sessions starting from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per person. This usually covers your mask, snorkel, fins, and a guide who stays with you.
🚤 Boat Trips & Island Packages
For places like North Bay, Jolly Buoy, or Red Skin, you’ll need to take a boat from Port Blair. Package prices here range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per person, depending on the island and inclusions (like permits, boat fees, and gear). These trips often feel more organised and less crowded when arranged by a travel agent Andaman or included in an Andaman and Nicobar holiday package.
🤿 Add-on to Tours
If you’re already doing a day trip (say, a glass-bottom boat ride or a visit to Mahatma Gandhi Marine Park), snorkelling can be added for an extra cost of ₹500–₹800.
If you book through the best travel agency in Port Blair or a reputed Andaman travel agency, you’ll often find bundled Andaman and Nicobar islands travel packages that cover not only snorkelling but also other water activities in Andaman with price transparency.
📅 Best Time to Plan
Snorkelling is possible almost year-round, but the sweet spot is October to May. During monsoons (June–September), heavy rains and rough seas limit water clarity and safety.
✈️ Logistics to Keep in Mind
In short, whether you want a quick beach dip or a full-day marine park adventure, there’s a budget and setup for everyone. And yes—don’t forget to carry some cash; smaller operators may not accept cards.
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When you land in the Andamans, you’ll notice one thing: water sports are everywhere. From banana boat rides to scuba diving, there’s something for every type of traveler. But how does snorkelling compare?
🤿 Snorkelling – Easy and Beginner-Friendly
Think of snorkelling as dipping your head under a glass window into the sea. You float on the surface, breathe normally through your snorkel, and still see coral reefs, fish, and even sea turtles if you’re lucky. No heavy training, no certificates, just a short briefing and you’re good to go.
🌊 Scuba Diving – Deeper, Longer, More Technical
Scuba diving lets you stay underwater longer and reach greater depths. The experience is more immersive—you’re literally swimming alongside marine life instead of watching from the surface. But it requires training, gear checks, and often a PADI-certified instructor. Costs are also higher, usually ₹3,500–₹6,000 per dive.
🛶 Kayaking & Glass-Bottom Boats – For Non-Swimmers
If you’re not comfortable in the water, kayaking in mangroves or glass-bottom boat rides are excellent alternatives. You’ll see fish and corals without even getting wet, though it won’t match the thrill of being face-to-face with marine life.
🚤 Adventure Rides – For the Thrill Seekers
Jet skis, banana boats, and parasailing are fun but short-lived activities. They’re about speed and excitement rather than marine life.
Final Thoughts
Snorkelling in the Andaman Islands isn’t just about seeing corals—it’s about pausing life for a while and realising how small we are in a world that’s so colorful and alive beneath the waves. It’s one of those travel memories you carry long after your trip is over.
If you’re planning a visit, give yourself at least one dedicated day for this activity. Go slow, breathe easy, and let the underwater world come to you. Who knows—you might spot a clownfish peeking from its anemone, a sea turtle gliding past, or simply the shimmer of countless fish moving like a dance troupe.
For first-timers or repeat visitors, a simple snorkelling session in Andaman or you go with a full Andaman holiday package, Andaman Island is a gentle reminder: sometimes, the best experiences don’t need luxury—they just need curiosity and a mask.
Snorkeling in the Andaman Islands
