Overview
Snorkelling in Andaman opens a window onto some of the most beautiful reefs in India. Just below the surface, hard and soft corals shelter parrotfish, butterflyfish, clownfish and giant clams, and on a calm day the water can be wonderfully clear. Unlike diving, snorkelling needs no certification, so it is an easy way for families and first-timers to meet the underwater world.
We arrange guided snorkelling at well-known, permitted sites such as the reefs off Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil), and around North Bay and the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park near Wandoor when they are open. On private boat days, we also look for quieter reefs where snorkelling is allowed and conditions are calm. Every session starts with a briefing on equipment, safety and reef-friendly behaviour.
Our guides stay with you in the water, point out marine life and help nervous swimmers feel at ease. We never feed fish, never stand on coral and never chase turtles or other animals. Reefs in the Andamans have been affected by warming seas, so we treat each one with care and choose sites that are healthy and suitable on the day. Marine sightings are part of the magic, but never guaranteed.
Highlights
- Guided snorkelling
- Fringing reefs
- Reef-safe practice
What to Expect
- A briefing on snorkel equipment, breathing, safety signals and reef etiquette.
- Fitting of mask, snorkel, fins and a life jacket or buoyancy aid.
- A guided swim over a fringing reef, with your guide close by in the water.
- Time to float, observe and photograph marine life without touching anything.
- Freshwater rinse, refreshments and a chat about what you saw.
Location
Permitted snorkelling sites on Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil), North Bay and, when open, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park near Wandoor. Private boat days may add other permitted reefs.
Duration
One to two hours in the water, as part of a half-day or full-day outing depending on the site.
What's Included
- Experienced snorkel guide in the water
- Mask, snorkel, fins and buoyancy aid
- Boat or beach access to the site
- Drinking water and refreshments
- Reef-safe sunscreen on request
Best For
Families, beginners and ocean lovers.
Snorkelling suits anyone comfortable in the water with a buoyancy aid. Non-swimmers can try shallow, sheltered sites with a guide holding a float, and children are welcome with an adult.
Best Time
November to April usually offers the calmest seas and best visibility. Some marine park sites close seasonally or in rough weather, and sessions are confirmed against the forecast.
Permissions & Availability
Snorkelling is subject to permissions, sea conditions and host availability. Some sites lie within marine national parks with seasonal openings, entry permits and fixed timings. We arrange the permits we can and choose a permitted alternative if a site is closed.
We confirm every element a day or two before you travel and keep you informed if plans need to change. Safety, local rules and our hosts' wishes always come first.
Responsible Travel
Snorkelling follows our responsible travel promise. We keep groups small, use established routes and permitted locations, pay hosts fairly and leave every place as we found it. We never promise wildlife sightings, and we never market, visit or photograph the islands' indigenous communities, whose privacy and protected status we fully respect.
Please carry a refillable bottle, use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or wildlife and ask before photographing people.
Gallery
Sample itinerary
- 08:00
Briefing and fitting
Masks, fins and buoyancy aids, plus reef etiquette.
- 08:45
Boat or beach to the reef
Travel to a permitted site chosen for the day's conditions.
- 09:15
Guided snorkel
Float over the fringing reef with your guide beside you.
- 10:30
Second site or rest
A second reef if conditions allow, or time on the beach.
- 11:30
Rinse and return
Freshwater rinse, refreshments and the ride back.
Sample itinerary – final plan depends on permissions, sea conditions and host availability.
FAQs
Where is the best snorkelling in Andaman?
The reefs off Swaraj Dweep (Havelock), Shaheed Dweep (Neil) and North Bay are popular and accessible. The best site on your day depends on the tide, wind and permissions.
Can non-swimmers snorkel in Andaman?
Yes, at shallow and sheltered sites with a buoyancy aid and a guide beside you. Tell us your comfort level so we can choose the right place.
Will we see turtles?
Turtles are sometimes seen, but no sighting is ever promised. We never chase, touch or feed marine life.
Do I need to bring equipment?
No. We provide masks, snorkels, fins and buoyancy aids. You are welcome to bring your own mask for a perfect fit.
How much does snorkelling in Andaman cost?
Price on request. It depends on the site, boat access, permits and group size, and we send a clear quote.