North Bay Island, Andaman: The Ultimate Water Sports Guide (2026)

PC: Vinodh Prasanna

Just a short ferry ride from Port Blair lies an island that is pure, unadulterated fun. Welcome to North Bay Island, the adventure-packed destination famously known as the "Coral Island" of the Andamans. This is the place you go to experience a thrilling array of water sports and get a spectacular window into the region's vibrant underwater world.

North Bay is not an island for quiet relaxation; it's a hub of energy and excitement. It's where you can walk on the ocean floor, snorkel over colourful reefs, and get your picture taken with the iconic lighthouse that features on the back of the Indian 20 Rupee note.

As the most popular day-trip destination from Port Blair for adventure, North Bay is a must-visit. This guide will cover all the amazing activities you can do here and provide all the practical information you need to plan your trip.

PC: Andaman Islands

1. Why Visit North Bay Island? The Top 3 Reasons

• A Water Sports Paradise: North Bay is a one-stop-shop for nearly every popular water sport in the Andamans, making it incredibly convenient.

• Rich Coral Reefs: As its "Coral Island" nickname suggests, it's surrounded by a beautiful shallow-water reef that is perfect for beginners to explore.

• Proximity to Port Blair: Its close proximity to the capital makes it a very easy and accessible full-day or half-day trip without requiring an overnight stay.

2. A Deep Dive into the Activities: Your Adventure Menu

North Bay offers an incredible variety of experiences for all ages and comfort levels.

• Sea Walking: This is the star attraction. Wear a special oxygenated helmet and walk on the seabed, surrounded by schools of fish and beautiful corals. It's perfectly safe and ideal for non-swimmers.

• Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant reef from the surface. The calm, clear waters make it a great spot for first-time snorkelers.

• Scuba Diving (for Beginners): Many operators conduct Discover Scuba Dives here, offering a safe and controlled introduction to the world of diving.

• Semi-Submarine Ride: A unique experience perfect for families. You sit in a submerged, air-conditioned cabin with large glass windows and enjoy a submarine-like view of the coral reef without getting wet.

• Glass Bottom Boat Rides: Another great option for non-swimmers, these boats have a glass panel that offers a clear view of the marine life below.

• Jet Ski & Speed Boat Rides: For those seeking a dose of high-speed thrills on the water.

3. The Famous Lighthouse

The tall, red-and-white striped lighthouse that stands proudly on the island's shore is one of the most recognized landmarks in the Andamans. It is the very same lighthouse that is printed on the back of the old Indian 20 Rupee note, making it a fun and iconic photo opportunity for every visitor. You can take a short trek up towards the lighthouse for a fantastic panoramic view of the island and its surrounding reef.

4. How to Reach North Bay Island

• Departure Point: All boats to North Bay Island depart from the Aberdeen Jetty, also known as the Andaman Water Sports Complex, in Port Blair.

• The Boat Trip: The journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes on a shared tourist boat.

• Booking: The most popular and value-for-money way to visit is by booking a "two-island combo tour" that includes both North Bay Island and the historic Ross Island. These tours can be booked at the jetty or, more conveniently, in advance through a local tour operator.

5. Practical Information for Your Visit

• Timings: This is a day-trip-only destination. You will typically spend about 2-3 hours on the island as part of the full-day tour.

• Costs:

  • Boat Fare (Combo Trip): ₹900 - ₹1,200 per person.

  • Entry Fee: A nominal island entry fee of around ₹10.

  • Activity Costs: All water sports are charged separately (e.g., Sea Walk costs approx. ₹3,500).

• Facilities: The island has basic facilities, including changing rooms, lockers, and several shacks selling snacks, refreshments, and simple meals. Carry cash for all your expenses.

6. The Next Step in Your Andaman Adventure

North Bay Island offers a fantastic taste of the underwater adventure that awaits in the Andamans. After enjoying the water sports here, your journey to the even more pristine reefs and world-class dive sites of Havelock and Neil begins.

To get there, a fast and comfortable ferry is your best choice. Booking your tickets on a premium ferry like Nautika through GoNautika ensures your travel to the premier island destinations is smooth, reliable, and comfortable, setting the stage for the next chapter of your adventure.

Get An Insight About Jolly Buoy vs North Bay Island For Better Snorkelling