Semi Submarine

Semi Submarine - Water Sport at Andaman Islands

A semi submarine isn't a real submarine - it never fully submerges. The bottom section, where passengers sit, stays a couple of metres below the surface while the upper deck and engine room stay above water, which keeps the whole vessel stable and means there's no pressure adjustment or training needed to ride it. Rows of large windows line the cabin walls, giving a clear view of whatever's swimming or growing just outside the glass.

North Bay Island runs the main semi submarine operation near Port Blair, going out over coral patches and reef areas that would otherwise need a mask and snorkel to see. The ride lasts 30-40 minutes and covers a fixed underwater route, so unlike snorkelling you don't control where you go - you just sit back and let the boat do the work.

Semi Submarine at Andaman Islands

What you actually see depends on the day - reef fish, coral formations, sometimes a turtle if the boat happens to pass near one. It's not the same density of marine life you'd get snorkelling at Elephant Beach, since the submarine sticks to a set route and can't chase anything down, but it covers more ground in less time and works for people who physically can't get in the water.

This is the activity to pick if you're travelling with grandparents, infants, or anyone who isn't comfortable swimming or putting their face underwater. It's also a reasonable backup on a day when sea conditions rule out snorkelling or diving but the boats are still running.