Picture this: Swimming along schools of colourful fish with captivating vibrant coral reefs in the backdrop! Doesn’t it sound exciting? Well, this one is for the water babies out there! If you are planning a trip to the Andamans and contemplating indulging in adventurous and thrilling water sports including the popular scuba diving, our ultimate experiential guide is all you need!
As someone who has tried many water sports in the Andamans and elsewhere in India, from scuba diving to parasailing, this writer takes you through the do’s and don’ts via this piece.
Firstly, if you think that only swimmers can witness the fascinating marine life underwater, you are mistaken. It may come as a surprise for many, but it is not mandatory to know swimming for most water sports in the Andamans.
Explore more with our ultimate guide to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Best time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for water sports
While the best time to visit is between October and April, heading there between November and February is advised for a more pleasant climate. Despite the destination being a popular monsoon getaway, most water sports are not operational during this season in the Andamans for safety reasons. Though many travellers visit the Andamans in May and June, especially for watersports, it is extremely hot and should be avoided.
Explore more with our selection of the best places to visit in July.
Book your flight from Mumbai to Port Blair
Book your flight from Delhi to Port Blair
Best water sports and adventure activities to try in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
As the Andamans is a hub for adventure activities and water sports, it is home to many travel operators catering to every type of adventurer. Most islands in the Andamans allow water sports. Some prominent ones include Port Blair, Havelock Island (especially Elephant Beach), North Bay Island, Neil Island, Jolly Buoy, and Red Skin Island.
Scuba Diving
If you think ‘Scuba Diving’ is a life-changing experience for a first-timer as shown in the 2011 Bollywood hit Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, you aren’t totally wrong. As I have experienced it myself at Havelock Island, I highly recommend trying it once. Aquaphobics or people with a fear of water (including a close friend) have reported being transformed into a water baby after trying this sport in the Andamans!
Scuba diving allows travellers to explore marine life up close as it takes divers to extreme depths of the sea to marvel at the spectacular coral reefs and various aquatic species. Every participant is given proper training for around an hour before the dive. They are also accompanied by professional divers and are provided with good-quality scuba gear. Most travel operators organising scuba diving in the Andamans offer complementary underwater videography and photography as well. While adventure enthusiasts can easily try scuba diving in the Andamans, children below 12 years and people with serious heart conditions are not allowed.
Approximate cost per person: INR 3,500 – INR 4,000 (HKD 326 to 373)
Explore more with our selection of the best places in the world for scuba diving.
Sea Walking
This water sport in the Andamans is for those who aren’t comfortable breathing underwater through their mouth using oxygen cylinders as required for scuba diving. While you can’t dive deeper like scuba, you can walk on the seabed wearing a special helmet, which allows you to breathe easily, and explore the beautiful and fascinating world underwater. Sea Walking is one of the safest water sports to try in the Andamans. Everyone including children above eight years and adults below 60 years can enjoy sea walking.
Approximate cost per person: INR 3,500 – INR 4,000 (HKD 326 to 373)
Snorkelling
Snorkelling includes breathing through the mouth using a pipe which is partially underwater and partially above while swimming or floating on the surface. Non-swimmers can also try it. Snorkelling may not be as rewarding as scuba diving, but worth trying if you enjoy a refreshing swim in natural plunge pools with clear water. According to my experience, you can still admire the coral reefs and the diverse fish species while snorkelling in the Andamans, however, be aware of allergic corals which may cause temporary skin irritation for a few minutes. Additionally, you can opt for packages offering snorkelling alongside island hopping and hiking.
Approximate cost per person: INR 1,000 – INR 3,000 (HKD 93 to 280) (depending on duration and place)
Explore more with our selection of incredible snorkelling spots around the world.
Semi Submarine
One of those water sports in Andaman without many restrictions, the semi-submarine is the most convenient way to explore the underwater biodiversity without getting wet. The viewing dorm with glass windows angled at 45 degrees allows you to marvel at the variety of colourful marine beings and fascinating coral reefs. Perfect for children and interested senior citizens, the semi-submarine experience is comfortable for all.
Approximate cost per person: INR 2,500 (HKD 233)
Parasailing
One of the most thrilling water sports to try in the Andamans, parasailing allows you to fly high (literally) with occasional dips in the cool seawater. Parasailing involves tying adventurers to speed boats through a rope with a parachute attached to it. Parasailing is a popular choice for travellers in Goa too. While I tried the thrilling water sport in Goa, I suggest trying it in the Andamans as well. Pro tip: The dip is optional.
Approximate cost per person: INR 3,500 (HKD 326)
Kayaking
Perfect for nature lovers and environmental enthusiasts, Kayaking allows you to explore the pristine lagoons and dense mangroves of the Andamans. Similar to boating, one just has to sit inside the kayak and row their way ahead, navigating through the lush green forests. Also try Bioluminescence kayaking at night at designated beaches. Many operators provide night kayaking options too, but all types of kayaking are executed under professional instructors. Pro tip: Don’t try if you have shoulder-related injuries as rowing may be challenging for many.
Approximate cost per person: INR 3,000 – INR 3,500 (HKD 280 to 326)
Jet Skiing
Speed lovers unite as this one’s for you! Adventurers seeking an adrenaline rush can try jet skiing, which involves rushing through the water onboard a jet ski. Indulge in some action amidst the waves while jet skiing in the Andamans with your loved one. Upto two people can ride the jet with a professional rider at one point. Some operators allow tourists to ride themselves but under controlled conditions. Another comfortable alternative to jet skiing is sea-karting. Pro tip: It is better to do jet skiing alone with the rider for best experience.
Approximate cost per person: INR 600 – INR 1,200 (HKD 56 to 112)
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Glass Bottom Boat Ride
For travellers who aren’t fond of adventure activities or water sports, a glass-bottom boat ride is one of the safest and most convenient options. An exciting journey onboard a boat with a glass floor awaits you, wherein you can admire the aquatic beings while sitting comfortably in your seat. An activity that can be enjoyed with your whole family and loved ones, a glass-bottom boat ride is a fun way to bond during vacations.
Approximate cost per person: INR 600 – INR 2,000 (HKD 56 to 186) (depending on the type of boat)
Game Fishing
Angling lovers can try game fishing in the Andamans for an amazing experience. With some varieties of fish weighing over 50 kg, game fishing is allowed only in designated areas and under proper supervision. The types of fish found in the Andamans during game fishing include blue marlin, black marlin, sailfish, dorado, dogtooth tuna, and yellowfin tuna. A comparatively costlier water-based activity, it usually lasts longer and includes informative sessions by professionals.
Approximate cost: INR 15,000 – INR 45,000 (HKD 1,400 to 4,201) (depending on the type of vessel, place, duration and activities involved according to package for a specific number of people)
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Points to remember before indulging in water sports in the Andamans
While it is fun to immerse in water sports in the Andamans or anywhere, travellers and adventurers should remember certain important pointers as follows:
- Always check for possible risks involved before trying any water sport.
- Read the rules, regulations and restrictions laid down by the authorities.
- Be aware of all the terms and conditions outlined by tour operators and directly contact them if you have queries.
- Don’t try any water sports or adventure activities if you have serious health issues.
- Most water sports are not suitable for children below 12 years and senior citizens (above 60 years), so plan your family trip accordingly.
- Some water sports aren’t suitable for adults in their fifties, hence cross-checking with the operator is advisable.
- Water sports should always be carried out under proper professional supervision unless you are a trained diver.
- Always wear life jackets whenever required even if you are a good swimmer.
- Understand the signs explained by trainers before scuba diving very carefully and practise them well before your session.
- Always opt for authorised travel operators for any adventure activity or water sport.
- As most tour operators provide pick-and-drop services at an additional cost, check for inclusions.
- Remember to carry anti-allergy medicines if you have sensitive skin.
- Don’t consume a heavy meal before any water sports.
- Always dress comfortably before trying water sports, except scuba diving as wetsuits and rubber boots are provided.
How to reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is around 5 km from the city centre and the best way to reach the Andamans. Daily ferries are available from Port Blair to various islands including Neil and Havelock. The sea route is the best way (and the only option in most cases) to commute across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands after reaching Port Blair.
For insights about diving courses, click here.
For further insights about water sports in Andaman, visit the official website of Andaman Tourism.
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing
(Representative feature image credit Jukkis/Shutterstock)
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
While most islands in Andaman offer water sports, some like Ross Island take travellers back to the times when prisoners were sent here as punishment. Tourists can also explore the Cellular Jail in Port Blair.
While most water sports in Andaman are suitable for children above 12 years, some can be tried by kids above 8 years too.
Formal training courses for water sports are available in Andaman for those who wish to learn it professionally. However, tourists are given brief training before any activity.
Yes, if proper measures are taken and rules are followed diligently, most water sports in Andaman are safe for tourists.
To ensure maximum safety while indulging in water sports, one should follow the rules laid by the authorities and wear life jackets whenever required.
No, knowing how to swim is not required for most water sports.
Some of the most beautiful places to visit in Andaman are Havelock Island , Neil Island, Elephant Beach, Radhanagar Beach and Ross Island.
Ideally, a week is required to explore Andaman well.
Written By
Pyusha Chatterjee
Digital Writer - Growth, TravelA journalist, Pyusha has previously worked with media organisations including The New Indian Express ..Read More
