North Bay Island has pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and enthralling water activities. This place is well-known for its underwater coral reserves. It is not only a place for relaxation but also a hub for water sports like speed boats, jet skis, snorkelling, underwater sea walks, and more. You can also enjoy astonishing views of Ross Island and the Port Blair skyline. Get ready to discover vibrant places and fun activities to indulge in on your next trip to North Bay Island.
Quick Details About North Bay Island
Location: Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
How To Reach: It takes around 40 – 45 minutes to reach this island via boat. The cost per person ranges from ₹300 – ₹500
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit this island is from October to May
Things To Do In North Bay Island
Here are few amazing things that you can try in North Bay Island to satiate your wanderlust.
1. Sea Walking
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It is an enticing activity, where the tourists walk under the sea and explore its beauty. The underwater sea life on this island is breathtaking. Tourists have to wear specially-designed helmets attached to an oxygen cylinder to witness the underwater beauty. It is a wholesome experience to be able to walk under the water and watch the diverse hidden marine life.
Timings: 9 AM – 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM – 1 PM
Cost/Person: ₹3000 onwards
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andaman
2. Glass Bottom Boat Ride
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North Bay Island is perfect for taking a glass bottom boat ride. If you are scared to enter the water, you can still explore underwater life by taking a glass bottom boat ride. You can witness the beauty of the corals and marine animals. The bottom of the boat is made of glass, through which the visitors can see life underwater. It’s a feeling of being in water, without actually stepping into the water.
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Cost/Person: ₹1500 for 20 minutes
3. Snorkelling
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Due to the shallow shorelines of North Bay Island, snorkelling is a perfect activity to indulge in here. The vibrant corals are visible due to clear waters and the diverse marine life looks mesmerising. The tourists are also provided with required gears and training. This is a super fun activity that can soothe your mind.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Cost/Person: ₹300 onwards
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Havelock Island
4. Scuba Diving
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Scuba diving is the most popular activity in Port Blair. Tourists can explore the most diverse and magnificent marine life and corals while scuba diving. The sea is crystal clear so the visibility is great and spotting some rare fish species is easy. It’s an enthralling experience overall. The island’s tourism depends a lot on this water sport, as it is one of the most popular activities among the visitors.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Cost/Person: ₹1700 – ₹3500
5. Parasailing
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North Bay Island is an ideal spot for parasailing. It is a super adventurous activity that tourists enjoy, when on this Island. The wind near the shores and deep seas is wild and acts as a catalyst for an enjoyable parasailing experience. The tourists soar high in the sky and glide with the wind on top of the ocean. The bird’s eye view of this island is breathtaking. Parasailing takes around 45 minutes.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Cost/Person: ₹2500 onwards
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Andaman Islands
6. Trekking
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Trekking is one of the best activities that tourists love to do on a vacation. This island is one of the best locations for trekking, where tourists can trek to the famous Lighthouse and soak in the gorgeous views of Port Blair. The blue sea, white sand and the lush green tropical forest take hues from nature and paint a scenic vista.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Places To Visit Near North Bay Island
Here are few picturesque places that you can explore near North Bay Island.
1. Viper Island
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Viper Island is very close to Port Blair. It is a serene island with many tourist attractions and historic importance. There is an old jail here named Cellular Jail, where Britishers used to keep the convicts and political prisoners. Tourists can plan a small trip to this island to explore history and enjoy its scenic beauty. A cruise sails from Phoenix Bay Jetty to Viper Island.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Entry Fee: ₹70 for a ferry ride
Suggested Read: Beaches In Andaman
2. Corbyn Cove Beach
Photo: Malaravan / Shutterstock
Corbyn Cove Beach is a famous tourist destination near this island as it offers water sports including scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing, jet ski rides, and many more. This island’s tourism experiences a great push due to its proximity. This beach is crescent in shape surrounded with sky-blue waters. Another island, called Snake Island, is just across this beach that offers one of the best scuba diving experiences. The tourists also enjoy watching the historical Japanese Bunkers on this beach.
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Where To Stay
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There are no hotels on the island, but few good options are available near this island that offer a comfortable stay. Some of the good places to stay are – Hotel Islander Inn, Hotel Guru International, Sea Shell Hotel, Hotel Hilltop International, and Sinclair Bayview.
Suggested Read: Andaman And Nicobar Nightlife
Where To Eat
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There are no food joints or shacks on the island. But, there are some good restaurants available near the island including Amaya, SeaFood Delights, The Andaman Kitchen, Icy Spicy, Salt and Pepper, and Annapurna. They offer sumptuous food amidst a soothing ambiance.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Annie Spratt / Unsplash
Average Cost Of The Trip
The cost of the whole trip including water sports, may range from ₹5000 – ₹7000.
Tips For Travellers
- Since this island is known for various water sports, it is advised to pre-book the water activities while visiting during the peak season.
- Take an extra pair of clothes, especially if you want to indulge in water adventures.
- Carry sunscreen and a hat for protection against the sun rays.
- There are no restaurants available on the island, so it is advised to carry packed meals.
Suggested Read: Nightlife In Port Blair
North Bay Island is a secluded gem in Andamans which is also famous for various water sports. This scenic island is a blend of nature’s awe-inspiring beauty, tranquillity and soul-stirring water activities. From families to couples and solo wanderers, it is the perfect destination for every type of traveller. Plan your trip to this island with TripXL, and get ready to dive into the lap of nature.
Cover Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons