Abound with tranquil environments, tantalizing food, sun-drenched shores, and energizing activities, Andaman Islands have a lot to offer. The place is replete with natural wonders and a unique charm that pulls in travellers from all walks of life.
Who doesn’t love the serenity of untouched and secluded beaches? Andamans are blessed with a myriad of such shores and well-preserved coral reefs. Often surrounded by extensive forests and crystal-clear water, these islands are a sight to behold.
There are numerous things to do in Andaman, such as hiking through jungles, observing the indigenous wildlife in the national parks, learning about the rich history and culture of the place through the guided tours in museums or adventure water sports such as scuba diving, sea walking or snorkelling in Andaman Islands.
What is Snorkelling?
An exciting aquatic activity that can be performed by anyone and is pretty easy to learn and follow. It is something that an entire family can participate in. Hence it is suitable for having a fun afternoon with your loved ones.
Snorkelling is an activity you can participate in even if you don’t know how to swim. You can use buoyant floats so that you get to have a fun filled snorkel session in Andaman. After all, you don’t have to dive deep into observing marine wildlife and corals!
Snorkelling requires essential equipment such as fins, mask, and snorkel. Protective suits can be worn if you’re planning to swim closer to the seabed. Those that have an aversion to submerging their heads in the cold water can get an observation buoy as well.
As long as you have the right snorkel equipment, it is going to be the perfect pastime during your Andaman vacation trip. Snorkelling equipment price is light on the pocket, you can also rent equipment on the beach.
You don’t have to devote hours for learning the ropes, you can snorkel as soon as you get in the water.It will also make you burn calories, which is all the reason why it should be on your list of things to do. And as a bonus, you get to splash around without breaking a sweat!
The best fact about snorkelling remains the ability to enjoy it in a group. Relax and bond with your friends and family. Make some long-lasting memories under the waves while snorkelling.
Why Snorkel in Andaman?
Andaman Islands provide you with a chance to enjoy the splendours that the Indian Ocean has to offer. Scattered around on the islands are some of the best snorkelling centres and coaches. You can quickly learn the basics and also get the required equipment from them.
Apart from learning the skills, one can even hire guides to help them get the best out of their experience. Price for snorkelling in Andaman can range from a few hundred Indian rupees to a few thousand. These prices are decided by the time limit and the locale.
It is also good to make sure that the snorkelling in Andaman age limit doesn’t spoil your plans. Kids above the age of 4 and adults of ages up to 60 years are usually allowed to go snorkelling.
Snorkelling in the Andaman will leave you mesmerized. This archipelago is visited again and again by some dedicated snorkelers.
Popular places for Snorkelling
Even though Andaman is amongst the places you can visit throughout the year, it is better to plan your trip in the winter months. The temperature stays between 20 to 30°C during these months, which is perfect for all the endorsed activities, especially water sports.
Some of the best places in Andaman where you should go for snorkelling are:
Elephant Beach in Havelock
Snorkelling at Elephant beach is said to be one of the most heavenly experiences in Andaman. Located on Havelock Island, this beach is one of the cleanest and immaculate beaches in the Andaman.
Apt to the name, the mighty elephants on the shore can be witnessed in all of their glory. Off the coast are some brilliantly colourful reefs and fishes that can be observed with the help of your snorkelling gear.
North Bay Island near Port Blair
The peaceful seashores of North Bay offer the best snorkelling experience in Andaman. The shallow blue waters might be the place to experience underwater life.
Coral belts around the shore extend up to 2 km, and the diving spots are shifted frequently to keep the reef healthy.
Red Skin Island
Red Skin is located in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine Park, Wandoor. This is one of the less crowded beaches in Andaman. The plastic-free island beaches here are pristine and quiet.
The coral reef is within metres of the coast. The island is open to visitors only a few times throughout the year.
Kalipur Village Beach
The quaint, dusty village of Kalipur, is situated close to Diglipur. This place is world-renowned for the turtles that return to its shore and nest.
Vibrant cyan water surrounds the Kalipur beach made of volcanic sand. Snorkelling near the shores would bring you close to the active coral reefs located just 200 m or so from the coast.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) Beaches
Another village, 40 km away from port Blair, boasts of some of the most picturesque beaches in the Andaman.
Neil Island beaches get their names from the characters from Indian epic Ramayana.
Ramnagar and Laxmanpur beaches are recommended spots for those looking for a good swim and exciting snorkelling experience.
Safety Precautions
Snorkelling is a pretty rewarding activity, as it is simple enough. But there are certain precautions that you need to take before you pull out your snorkelling kit and dive in.
Apart from getting the best equipment for snorkelling, consider spending some time on improving your swimming skills. That will help you get confident in the water and ditch the floatation devices.
Ocean waters can be chilly, which can make your body heat fast! Breathing in fast and in quick bursts will make you lose energy. That’s why deep, slow breaths and a relaxed mind might help you feel at ease when you’re underwater.
Experienced snorkelers recommend that no matter if it’s your first time snorkelling or you’re a well-versed diver, you should snorkel with a group. This is just to make sure that you have someone to take care of you in case of emergencies.
Who would want to be stuck out there in an ocean during a storm? That’s why you should always check the weather reports before going for a swim. Ask a local or a guide as they have more experience in detecting fluctuations in the weather.
Familiarise yourself with the environment and try not to swim too far from safe spots. Stay close to your friends or at least in their line of sight.
