Andaman Water Sports: Snorkelling, Sea Walk, Kayaking and Diving
Andaman water sports compared: snorkelling, sea walk, glass-bottom boats, kayaking and scuba diving, with where each is offered, who it suits and safety tips.
The Andamans are one of the best places in India for the sea. The water is clear, the reefs are healthy in places and the options range from a gentle snorkel to a first dive.
This guide compares the main activities and where to do each.
The coast at North Bay Island.
Activity | Where | Best for |
|---|---|---|
Snorkelling | North Bay, Elephant Beach, Neil | Beginners and families |
Glass-bottom boat | Jolly Buoy, Bharatpur | Non-swimmers |
Sea walk | Port Blair area | Those who prefer not to swim |
Kayaking | Havelock mangroves | Calm, scenic paddling |
Scuba diving | Havelock, Neil | Beginners and certified divers |
Availability depends on the weather and the sea. Operators may cancel on rough days.
Snorkelling
The simplest way to see the reef. You need little skill, and most spots are shallow. See the North Bay guide, the Elephant Beach guide and the Bharatpur Beach guide.
Glass-bottom boats and sea walks
If you do not want to swim, glass-bottom boats show the coral from above. A sea walk lets you walk on the seabed with a helmet. Both suit nervous swimmers. Check the operator's safety record. See the Jolly Buoy guide.
Kayaking
Havelock's mangrove channels are calm and beautiful. Night kayaking can show bioluminescence on the right nights. See the kayaking guide.
Scuba diving
A first dive with an instructor needs no experience. Choose a licensed operator, listen to the briefing and follow the rules. See our first scuba dive guide.
Safety
Use licensed operators with trained staff.
Check the weather and sea conditions.
Tell staff about any health condition.
Do not touch coral or marine life.
Avoid flying within the recommended gap after a dive.
When to go
October to May has the calmest seas. See the season guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best activity for beginners?
Snorkelling or a glass-bottom boat ride.
Can non-swimmers join?
Yes, with a glass-bottom boat or a sea walk.
Is scuba diving safe?
With a licensed operator and an instructor, yes.
Where is the best snorkelling?
North Bay, Elephant Beach and Neil Island.
When is the sea calmest?
October to May.
Plan your Andaman trip with us
We book trusted operators and pace the activities so you do not miss the beaches. Explore the Andaman destination page or talk to a trip designer.
Photo credits
Photo reused from our North Bay guide. The credit is listed there, via Wikimedia Commons.
Journeys for this trip
Plan your Andaman & Nicobar trip
Read Next
All Stories →
Private Beach Stay Andaman Honeymoon: What to Ask Before Booking
Scuba Diving in Havelock Cost: Prices, Dive Sites and Who Can Dive
