Havelock Island is very popular for its scenic beauty, landscape, and pristine beaches. The crystal waters of the Indian Ocean look mesmerising when you pedal and sail through them. Kayaking in Havelock Island is one of the most popular water activities in Andaman. It is perfect for people on group vacations with friends and family. Kayaking allows you to come close to the blue waters. Night Kayaking is also very popular on this island and gives an intriguing experience. This close encounter with oceanic waves while witnessing the beauty of the landscape offers an experience of a lifetime.
Factors Affecting Kayaking In Havelock Island
Photo: Biswajit Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kayaking depends on certain factors that are also useful in deciding the right place to kayak. These factors are:
- Water Currents
- Weather
- Reachability
- Safety
- Closeness to Nature and Wildlife
- Presence of marine biodiversity
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Havelock Island
Types Of Kayaking
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Kayaking is mainly of two types – Day Kayaking and Night Kayaking
Day Kayaking – It occurs during the daytime, from early morning till twilight. Depending on the place of kayaking, tourists can indulge in sea kayaking or mangrove kayaking. It is the best way to witness the beauty of the calm waters and the landscape surrounding it.
Night Kayaking – It is done during night time, after 6 pm. Due to the bioluminescence effect, the marine creatures glow inside the water and give a feeling of floating on the stars. These creatures beam like fireflies and give a breathtaking view.
Popular Places For Kayaking In Havelock Island
Every tourist who loves kayaking dreams to get perfect spots for the same. Havelock Island offers three amazing places that are a haven for kayakers:
1. Mangrove Creeks
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
The creeks in Havelock Island are a thick maze of green, with twisted roots that gently touch the ripples of the water. As you kayak through these waterways, you will pass under the dense mangrove canopies and hear the chirping of exotic birds. Also, lucky ones may get to see a jumping fish around the kayak. The experience of being so close to nature is surreal and must be tried here.
Timings: 7 am – 3 pm
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Havelock Island
2. Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach is the ideal place if you are fond of underwater life. This beach has clear waters that offer good visibility of the coral reefs below. You can witness the exotic marine life, from fish to sea turtles. You can also anchor your kayak and take a snorkelling dip in the gorgeous waters. Kayaking at this beach is a must-try while visiting Havelock Island.
Timings: 8 am – 5 pm
3. Radhanagar Beach
Photo: Mvbellad / Wikimedia Commons
This beach boasts of its alluring landscape with golden sand meeting the azure waters. It is ranked as the 7th most beautiful beach in the world and the best beach in Asia. The sea is wide here and ideal for people who love sea kayaking. The sky is painted in different shades of sunset and enjoying it while kayaking is the best experience ever. Kayaking here is truly a mesmerising experience as you paddle into the open sea and feel like touching the horizon.
Timings: 6 am – 5 pm
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Andaman
Price In Havelock Island
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The price of kayaking in Havelock Island depends on the time and whether you are taking the kayak on rent or with a guide. If it is day kayaking with a guide, then the cost is INR 2500 – 3500 for 2 hours, and for night kayaking it is INR 3700. For rental, it costs around INR 850.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time for kayaking on Havelock Island is from November to April. The sky is clear and the water is calm and safe for kayaking. You can witness the real beauty during these months with lush green landscapes and flourishing biodiversity on land and in water.
Day Time: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm
Night Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Andaman Islands
Other Factors To Consider
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Travellers must keep the following points in mind while planning for kayaking on this island:
Average Cost Of The Trip:
The average cost of a kayaking trip in Havelock ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per person. This includes equipment rental, guide fees, and a brief training session.
- Wear comfortable and quick-dry clothes and footwear during the boat ride
- Keep the life jacket on during the whole ride
- Keep a hat and sunglasses to avoid the sun’s rays
- Keep drinking water and light snacks with you
- Keep a dry bag to protect electronic and digital items
- You can also keep a camera handy to click the breathtaking pictures
Kayaking is one experience that brings you very close to nature and marine life in one go. Kayaking on Havelock Island is very popular due to the island’s topography, crystal-clear waters, and exotic marine life. While gliding along the coastline, you can explore the dense mangroves, pass through the canopies formed by the trees, and enjoy the stunning scenery. Even the night kayaking offers exhilarating views and a thrilling experience. So without any delay, plan a trip with TripXL and make it a memorable one for life.
Cover Photo: Rachel Claire / Pexels / Image For Representation Only