Everything The Andaman Islands Offer in Water Sports
Located in the heart of the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Islands are a breathtaking collection of islands that seem to belong in a dream. Known far and wide for their beaches, waters, and dense rainforests, these islands are truly a nature lover’s paradise. But what’s most special about the Andamans is the unbelievable diversity of water sports and sea adventures that await each visitor — from the adventure-seeker to the laziest explorer. Whether you desire to sail calmly on soft waves or dive deep into the ocean’s depths to discover colorful reefs full of life, the Andamans have something special for all. This is a place where your love for water comes alive, whether it’s through scuba diving, jet skiing, or many other exciting activities.
Why Are the Andaman Islands a Must-Visit Destination for Water Sports?
If you’re wondering why the Andamans have become such a hotspot for water lovers, it all starts with the natural gifts this island offers.
World-famous beaches such as Radhanagar Beach and the renowned Havelock Island provide water that is so transparent you can see up to 40 meters below the surface — ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Best diving experiences with colorful coral reefs, swaying turtles, and schools of colorful fish that color the sea.
A tropical climate provides water sports throughout the year, even in the monsoon season.There are all types of activities for — a beginner or a professional, you’ll find something thrilling here.
The Andamans are not just a vacation spot but an adventure ground for every water lovers.
1. Subsea World: Find the Magic of Scuba Diving
One of the most memorable experiences you will have in the Andamans is scuba diving. You’re essentially stepping into a whole new world, enjoying your day with lively marine life and coral gardens.
Best locations: Havelock Island is renowned for dive shops such as Dive India and Aqua Vibes, where you will find sites such as The Wall and Seduction Point to explore. Neil Island contains reefs with hidden treasures of the sea. The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park safeguards some of the most rich coral reef ecosystems.
What to look for: Beginners can begin with a brief training session of approximately 30 minutes, followed by a dive of up to 40 minutes at depths no greater than 12 meters. Trained divers can dive deeper and experience more amazing locations such as Chidiyatapu. For thrill-seekers, night diving presents an opportunity to see bioluminescent plankton and nighttime marine life.
New trends: You can go underwater scooter diving in some locations, where you smoothly glide under the waves. And digital dive logs with GPS mapping provide a new-age twist on monitoring your underwater exploits.
Sustainability tip: Always be gentle with marine life—avoiding coral touching and fish-chasing. Go for environmentally friendly operators which are committed to safeguarding these delicate underwater ecosystems.
2. Snorkeling: Swim Among the Ocean’s Jewels
And if scuba diving seems too hard for you, snorkeling is the next best thing. With a mask, snorkel, and fins, you remain at the surface and view an amazing underwater landscape.
Best snorkeling locations: Elephant Beach is renowned for parrotfish and clownfish. Jolly Buoy Island and coral gardens around the famous lighthouse are not to be missed as well.
Snorkeling tips: Be sure to use reef-safe sunscreen to cover both your skin and the sensitive sea environment. It’s a wonderful idea to bring a waterproof digital camera or GoPro along—some centers even offer them for rent.
3. Sea Walking: Walk on the Ocean Floor Without Diving Equipment
Sea walking is an extraordinary experience in which you walk on the ocean floor wearing a special helmet that provides oxygen, allowing you to breathe normally.
Where to go: North Bay Island is the most visited spot, but Neil Island has a more peaceful, secluded atmosphere.
What to do: You’ll walk on the seabed at 6-7 meters deep for 15-20 minutes among coral and fish that may swim close enough to offer themselves as a snack.
Safety tip: You don’t need to be a swimmer, but if you suffer from sinus or ear issues, this may not be your activity.
4. Parasailing: Fly Like a Bird Above the Ocean
Experience stunning views and a thrilling experience with parasailing,which is unforgettable.
Where to do it: Corbyn’s Cove and Radhanagar Beach are good places.
What to look for: You’ll be safely attached to a parachute and pulled along by a speedboat, flying 50 to 100 meters above the sea for approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
Best time: Morning flights are best with gentle breezes and ideal photography light. You can even plan a beach picnic, providing you a peaceful environment.
5. Jet Skiing: Ride the Wave of Adventure
Jet skiing is all about speed, excitement, and fun.
Best locations: Corbyn’s Cove and the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex.
What to look for: Rides take 10 to 15 minutes and can be taken by one person or with one companion, all under the guidance of expert instructors.
Safety advice: Always wear a life jacket and respect weight limits (usually up to 100 kg) to maintain your safety.
6. Kayaking: Paddle Through Mangroves and Bioluminescent Waters
Kayaking allows you to paddle quiet rivers and lagoons, providing a peaceful alternative to speed water sports.
Best spots: Mayabunder Mangroves and Kalapathar Beach (famous for bioluminescent plankton from December to March).
Experience: Guided tours take you through dense mangrove forests or allow you to paddle along calm waters under the light of bioluminescent plankton in the evening.
Tip: Opt for clear-bottom kayaks to observe sea life beneath without disturbing the ecosystem.
7. Banana Boat and Speed Boating: Guaranteed Group Laughter and Fun
Where: North Bay Island and Elephant Beach.
What to do: Banana boats are motorboat-pulled water rides with 5-6 people seated on them, guaranteed splashes and laughter included. Speed boating is ideal for adventure-seekers who need a quick tour of surrounding islands.
Tip: Get ready— falling into the water is half the fun!
8. Game Fishing: Deep Sea Adventures for Anglers
For all fishing lovers, the Andamans provide deep-sea views from Havelock and Rutland Islands.
Best time to visit: October to April has the best weather and fish activity.
What to look for: Half-day or full-day trip with professional guides and equipment supplied.
9. Windsurfing and Kite Surfing: Enjoy the Wind
Where: Havelock Island, particularly from November to February, when the winds are perfect.
What to expect: Sailing lessons and balancing on boards. Windsurfing is beginner-friendly, and kite surfing is for those with some experience.
10. Flyboarding: Be Iron Man
This exciting new water sport is there at the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex. Flyboarding allows you to fly up to 10 meters out of water on a hydro-powered board.
Duration and cost: 15 minutes for approximately ₹2,500.
Age limit: 16 years and above.
11. Underwater Photography Workshops
Professional workshops to take amazing underwater photos are available, such as at Dive India in Havelock.
Course duration: Two days.
Cost: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000.
12. Board Floating Meditation
Guided meditation while floating on calm waters is available at Kalapathar Beach, which offers a peaceful way to connect to nature.
13. Full Moon Boat Rides
Go through mangrove forests at Mayabunder or Havelock in the light of a full moon — an unforgettable experience unlike any other.
14. Wakeboarding: Style and Speed on the Water
Wakeboarding is surfing and water skiing combined, where you’re towed by a speedboat and do tricks off the waves.
Where: Havelock Island and Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex.
Tip: Start as a beginner by crouching for improved balance.
15. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Look at the Ocean Without Drowning
Perfect for families and swimmers, these boats provide ocean views through transparent bottoms.
Best locations: North Bay and Jolly Buoy Islands.
Tip: Morning tours provide the best views.
16. Water Jetpacking
You fly above the sea strapped to a jetpack powered by water pressure.
Where: Elephant Beach and Corbyn’s Cove.
Tip: Avoid those with back issues.
17. Cliff Jumping: for thrill seekers only
For the adventurous, cliffs between 3 and 5 meters near Elephant Beach and Barren Island offer thrilling jumps into deep waters.
Safety: Always check depth and currents first before jumping.
18. Submarine Rides: Discover the Ocean Without Getting Wet
Port Blair has semi-submersible submarine rides with huge viewing windows where you can observe turtles, rays, and reefs without getting wet or uncomfortable.
Practical Information and Tips
Best time: October to April is best for all water sports. Monsoon months (May to September) restrict many of them, although diving and snorkeling in protected locations are still allowed.
Permits: Needed for destinations like North Bay, Mahatma Gandhi Park, and Jolly Buoy.
Eco–tourism: Bring reef-safe sun lotion, do not discard plastic trash, and fill resort water bottles.
Health and safety: Diving medical examination is required for certified dives. Motion sickness medication is found by chemists.
Emergency numbers: GB Pant Hospital in Port Blair (+91-3192-233-473), DAN Asia-Pacific for scuba diving emergencies (+61-2-9888-9123).
Local Insider Secrets
Shell hunting: Merk Bay on North Passage Island, served by charter boats.
Fish feeding: The Aquarium Restaurant in Port Blair lets you feed giant groupers by hand.
Luxury and Special Experiences
Private yacht charters to remote islands like Cinque or Narcondam for snorkeling and picnics.
Underwater proposals with secret messages on the sea bed.
Packing Essentials
Bring money, swimwear, towels, and waterproof phone cases since most centers do not take cards.
FAQs
Are non-swimmers safe?
Yes! Snorkeling with flotation vests, sea walking, and banana boat rides are safe.
Can seniors join in?
Events such as sunset cruises and glass-bottom boat tours are ideal.
Are children permitted?
Most operators take children five years and older for most activities.
Are underwater photos possible?
Yes, photography services can be arranged by dive centers for ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per session.
Final Thoughts
The Andaman Islands are not just a tourist spot — they’re an invitation to dive into nature’s marvels and adventure. Each water sport activity here is a means to experience the sea in yet another form, be it swimming among turtles, looking over bioluminescent waters, or enjoying above the waves. Are you ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in one of the world’s most breathtaking water sports paradise?
If you are, Andaman Travel Care can create the ultimate package specifically for you, combining your wishes and your budget. Contact us today and begin planning your ultimate water vacation in the Andamans.
Uncover more, dive deeper — the Andaman await.