Andaman and Nicobar Islands are better known as ‘Island of water adventures’ is one of the most visited tourists’ locations that comes under union territory of India. A group of 325 Islands forms the most beautiful archipelago of India in the Bay of Bengal. The pristine sand beaches and thrilling water sports activities are the major factors that attract tourists to the Islands. Out of the 325 islands, approximately 36 of these Islands are permitted for the travellers to celebrate the best beach vacation in the most exciting manner. One of the prime factors that differentiate Andaman from the rest of the tourist destinations in the country like Hyderabad, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Kerala is the pollution-free surroundings. The at most cares taken by the authorities of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have helped the place to be one of the most sought tourist destinations on the earth. Andaman is inhabitants of the Sentinelese and Jarwa tribes who are unaware of the modern civilization techniques. As part of protecting these tribes and their privacy, the government of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have strictly prohibited visiting of travellers to these regions.
Among the several Islands in Andaman, Havelock, Port Blair, Neil and Ross Island are the most famous. The beaches of the Andaman is another factor which captivates tourist to the island. The crystal clear water of the Island clearly reflects the pebbles and coral reefs, delight any traveller’s heart while visiting the Island through Andaman tour packages. The pleasant climate, calm tides, transparent waters and an array of trees which are shelter to many rare species of flora and fauna are the few reasons which let the travellers indulge themselves in water sport activities. Snorkelling, sea walk, scuba diving are the famous underwater activities which grab the adventure enthusiasts to visit the Island. Travellers should go through the instructions given by the experienced trainers before exploring the underwater marine life. Other major enthralling water activities are Parasailing, glass boat rides, kayaking, jet-skiing are mainly practised by most of the travellers. To enjoy the beauty of the forest, travellers must practise kayaking through mangrove forests. The two most famous aquatic animals which the travellers love to see on the Island are the Dolphins and the Dugongs. Dugongs are the state animal of Andaman and Nicobar Islands are spotted mainly in the areas of Little Andaman. Dolphins are mainly seen in Havelock Island. Other rarest species which are seen on the Andaman Island are Robber crabs and humongous turtles. People can enjoy various species of birds as the island is home to migratory birds.
Each and every corner of the Island touches the visitor’s mind in one way or another. It is the perfect place to unwind and refresh oneself. More than exciting beach activities and site seeing there are many regions on the Island which depicts the colonial history of India. People are always interested to grab the Andaman tour packages from the famous Andaman tour operator. Their mission is to take each and every people of India to the Andaman Island to enjoy the mesmerising and fascinating beauty. As part of their mission this time they are selecting people from Kolkata city of West Bengal to explore the eternal beauty of the Island. People in Kolkata have no time to revitalise themselves in the busy stressed schedules of daily life. So for them, the Island of Andaman will be the perfect place. Various exciting water activities and beautiful locations on the island will be a kind of escapism from the hectic lifestyle. Among the various water sports activities, snorkelling is more widely practised by travellers. So read on to find out the best places to practise snorkelling in Andaman Island.
- What is Snorkelling?
Snorkelling is the best and awesome way to witness the blue stuff. It does not require any prior training. Only one thing which travellers must know is swimming. People who love to swim in deep shallow oceans and waters, snorkelling are best for them. This activity does not require much equipment. It just needs a mouthpiece and a mask that allows seeing the wonders of the marine world. Also, a snorkelling breathing tube of 16 inches is used to submerge snorkelers face into water while able to inhale air above the water. For fast and smooth snorkelling some snorkelers use fins on their legs.
- Few tips for Snorkelling
1. Travellers must talk to their concerned tour operators about their interest in snorkelling and ask them to make necessary arrangements.
2. Before heading for snorkelling, travellers must check whether their equipment is in working condition. If they feel any discomfort, ask for an alternate.
3. Follow the instructions of the experienced trainers and learn all the gestures and techniques during training.
4. Make sure that travellers have not eaten any kind of food items for past 4 and a half hours to avoid any kind of diseases.
5. In Andaman, one will come across various packages for snorkelling, select the best, reliable and cheap one.
- 10 Things to be carried for Snorkelling
1. Mask
Select the mask which fits the face properly. Any kind of air leakage means it is not good.
2. Mask defogger
Non-toxic, biodegradable and alcohol-free defogger helps to prevent the mask from fogging. It is used for protection of snorkelers and for the safety of the reefs.
3. Snorkel
Select the best and comfortable snorkel which lies close to head and does not drag.
4. Swim cap or bandana
A swim cap or bandana will keep hair out of your snorkel. It can also be used during sunny days to protect the scalp from burning.
5. Float Vest
It is used by novice swimmer to get relief from nervousness.
6. Wetsuit
Makes swimming friendly. It also provides protection from sunburns and stingy particles in the water.
7. Rashguard
Just like a wetsuit, rash guards also provide protection from sunburns and stingy particles in the water.
8. Biodegradable sunscreen
To protect from sunburns.
9. Fins
During snorkelling, shorter fins are used to change the directions and longer fins are used to swim deeper.
10. Neoprene socks
Neoprene socks provide comfort and prevent blisters on the ankles and feet.
- Cost of Snorkelling
Snorkelling in Andaman are classified mainly into 3 types. They are Beach snorkelling, Seashore snorkelling and offshore snorkelling. It costs different in various locations on the island. The cost depends on the quality of equipment and the time required for snorkelling. The entire activity lasts for 30-45 minutes and allows only 10-15 minutes for snorkelling. It charges separately for training and other facilities. In Elephant Beach of Havelock Island, the beach snorkelling costs Rs. 490/person and it is the same rate in Jolly Buoy Island for offshore snorkelling and seashore snorkelling in Neil Island. Whereas, it costs Rs.470/person for seashore snorkelling in the north bay beach of North Bay Island. And the rate is little higher in Red Skin Island for offshore snorkelling, it is Rs.500/person.
- Best time for Snorkelling
The best time for trying snorkelling in Andaman is during the winter season which starts from November and ends in February. In some parts of the island, snorkelling is highly practised during the summer season that is in March and April and also in monsoon days that is from May to October.
- 5 tips to select the ideal place for snorkelling
1. Cleanliness of water near the shores.
2. Frequency and power of tidal waves.
3. Underwater marine life.
4. Presence of lifeguards for safety.
5. Easily accessible.
6. Marine creatures like Rabid fish.
Places which provide these features are apt for snorkelling.
- Best places for snorkelling in Andaman Island are as follows:-
1. Elephant beach, Havelock Island
Havelock Island is one of the famous islands on the Andaman. It is famous for its snorkelling activities. The Island comprises of numerous beaches out of which only a few provide provision for snorkelling. One among them is Elephant beach, it so-called because one could find elephants riding on the beach. Since waters are calm and shallow here, it is an ideal place for beginners.
2. South Button
It is a small Island. Travellers could reach the island via boat rides from Havelock Island which requires hardly 2 hours. The snorkelling package over here is only Rs. 4000/-. As the coral reefs are deeper here one should swim far away from the shore. The place is also known as snorkelers’ paradise.
3. Tamarind Camp
To enjoy the beauty of various marine species like oysters, clams, pipefish and lionfish, one must definitely try snorkelling in tamarind camp, situated near to Henry Lawrence beach.
4. Henry Lawrence Island
It is another favourite place for snorkelers. It is the pride of its colourful coral reefs, various marine species, forest, wildlife and etc. It is situated 2 km away from Havelock Island.
5. Neil Island
It is one of the best places for snorkelling in the Andaman Islands. Neil islands comprise of a number of beaches which are suitable for snorkelling. The island is perfect for travellers who are excellent in swimming as many of the coral reefs and aquatic creatures are seen deeper and farther from the shore. The island boasts of its dark tunnel, corals, water-carved canyons and various species of fishes.
6. Kalipur
It is a small village located in northern Andaman. It is an ideal place for snorkelling. If snorkelers are lucky they can spot sea turtles, giant parrotfish, octopus, stingrays and sea snakes.
7. North Bay Island
North Bay Island is located very close to, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair. It is welcome tourists for snorkelling and beach activities. One can spot lobsters and clams over here.
From the above information, one will get a clear idea about the snorkelling and its costs. Snorkelling is not as difficult and tedious as seen on television. So people who are expert in swimming must try out this water sport activity. By doing so, travellers will across the rarest and least seen creatures which are lying under the water. If travellers are planning a trip to enjoy the beauty of Andaman Island, must definitely ask their tour planners to include beach activities in their itinerary. So don’t wait for the eleventh hour, hurry up, grab the package before it gets expired.