Most visitors to Port Blair spend their time exploring historical landmarks like the Cellular Jail and Ross Island. But just a short boat ride from the city lies a destination that offers an entirely different kind of experience. North Bay is Port Blair's most celebrated water sports and marine destination, famous for its spectacular coral reefs, vibrant underwater life, glass bottom boat rides and a full range of water sports activities. It is the one place in Port Blair where the Andaman Sea reveals itself in all its colour and clarity.
About North Bay of the Andaman Islands
North Bay is located approximately 15 minutes by ferry from the Water Sports Complex jetty in Port Blair. It is one of the closest coral reef destinations to the Andaman capital and remains the most accessible marine experience for visitors staying in Port Blair, requiring no long inter-island travel.
What makes North Bay genuinely special is the quality and accessibility of its coral reefs. The shallow reef zones are ideal for snorkeling, even for first-time visitors and non-swimmers using life jackets and supervised snorkeling equipment. The water clarity here is exceptional and the diversity of coral formations and reef fish makes every underwater encounter rewarding.
Beyond snorkeling, North Bay offers glass bottom boat rides for those who prefer to stay dry while still experiencing the reef, along with a wide range of water sports including sea walking, scuba diving, jet skiing, banana boat rides and more. It is genuinely the most complete marine activity destination within easy reach of Port Blair.
Quick Facts
- North Bay Island is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.
- The island is one of the best destinations in the Andaman Islands for snorkeling and sea walking.
- The iconic lighthouse featured on the ₹20 Indian currency note is located on North Bay Island.
- Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports including scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, and jet skiing.
- North Bay Island is easily accessible by boat from Port Blair and is a popular day-trip destination.
The History of North Bay
- Coral Reefs, Marine Life and the Andaman Sea Up Close
North Bay sits within one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in Indian waters. The coral reefs here are part of the larger Andaman reef system and are home to an extraordinary variety of hard and soft corals, reef fish, sea turtles, rays and a host of other marine species.
The snorkeling zones at North Bay are carefully managed to protect the reef while giving visitors the best possible access to the underwater world. Certified instructors and guides accompany snorkelers at all times, making it a safe and well-organised experience for families, solo travellers and first-timers alike.
The glass bottom boat rides at North Bay are particularly popular with visitors who are travelling with elderly family members or young children. These boats allow you to observe the coral reef and its marine inhabitants directly through the transparent hull without entering the water, offering a vivid and memorable window into the underwater world below.
North Bay's lighthouse, one of the most photographed landmarks on this stretch of coastline, is visible from the water and adds a scenic and historical backdrop to the entire experience. The combination of reef beauty, water activity and coastal scenery makes North Bay one of the most well-rounded half-day destinations in all of Andaman.
Plan Your North Bay Visit with Our Local ExpertsWhat to See Inside North Bay
North Bay offers a layered experience that combines marine exploration, water sports, reef viewing and coastal scenery. Here is what to look out for during your visit.
Snorkeling at the Coral Reef
Snorkeling at North Bay is the highlight for most visitors. The shallow reef zones, calm waters and exceptional visibility make it one of the best snorkeling experiences available anywhere near Port Blair. Supervised sessions with equipment provided make it accessible to all age groups and experience levels.
Glass Bottom Boat Ride
The glass bottom boat rides at North Bay offer a vivid view of the coral reef and marine life directly through the boat's transparent floor panels. Perfect for families travelling with young children or elderly members who prefer not to enter the water, these rides deliver a genuine underwater visual experience without any physical effort.
Sea Walking
Sea walking at North Bay allows visitors to walk on the actual seabed wearing a specially designed helmet that continuously supplies fresh air. No swimming ability is required. You walk among the coral and fish at close range in a way that snorkeling simply cannot replicate, making it one of the most memorable activities available here.
Scuba Diving Water Sports
For those seeking more, North Bay also offers introductory scuba diving sessions, jet skiing, banana boat rides and speed boat experiences. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a casual visitor, there is an activity at North Bay suited to every comfort level and interest.
North Bay Island
- The Adventure Hub of Andaman
North Bay Island is one of the most popular destinations in the Andaman Islands, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and exciting range of water sports activities. Located just a short boat ride from Port Blair, the island attracts travelers seeking both adventure and natural beauty.
The island is best known for snorkeling, sea walking, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat rides that allow visitors to explore the colorful underwater world without venturing too far from shore. The iconic North Bay Lighthouse, featured on the Indian ₹20 currency note, adds to the island's charm and offers excellent photo opportunities.
Most visitors spend 3 to 5 hours enjoying the island's activities and scenic surroundings. Water sports are available throughout the day, though morning visits generally offer calmer seas and better underwater visibility. Advance booking is recommended during the peak tourist season from December to February.
Book Your North Bay VisitTips for Visiting North Bay Island
- Start your trip early in the morning to enjoy calm waters, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds. Morning hours also offer the best visibility for snorkeling and underwater activities.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of drinking water, as there is limited shade available on the island and the tropical sun can be intense.
- Wear comfortable beachwear and water-friendly footwear. If you plan to participate in snorkeling, sea walking, or glass-bottom boat rides, bring an extra set of clothes and a towel.
- Book water sports activities through authorized operators and always follow safety instructions provided by guides and instructors.
- Keep your camera or smartphone protected with a waterproof case to capture stunning views of the turquoise waters, coral reefs, and the iconic North Bay Lighthouse.
- Avoid touching or collecting corals and marine life. Help preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem by following responsible tourism practices and disposing of waste properly.
- Our team at AndamanVacation.com can arrange ferry transfers, water sports activities, and guided excursions to North Bay Island, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
North Bay Island can be reached by regular ferry and speedboat services from Aberdeen Jetty in Port Blair.
Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, sea walking, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, jet skiing, and other water sports.
The best time to visit North Bay Island is between October and May when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are ideal for water activities.
Yes, activities such as sea walking and glass-bottom boat rides can be enjoyed by non-swimmers under professional supervision.
Include North Bay in Your Andaman Itinerary
North Bay is one of those destinations that delivers far more than most visitors expect. The coral reefs, the snorkeling, the glass bottom boats and the full range of water activities make it a genuinely complete marine experience that is hard to match anywhere else within easy reach of the Andaman capital.
Our team at Andaman Vacations India includes North Bay in Port Blair itineraries for travelers who want to experience the best of Andaman's underwater world without travelling far from the city. Tell us your travel dates and we will build a Port Blair day plan that combines the best of the city's history, nature and marine beauty in the right order and at the right pace.
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