Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- Practical Travel Information
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Tips for Underwater Photography in Mayabunder
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Underwater photography in Mayabunder offers a frontier feel: fewer boats, quiet coves, healthy coral patches, and a raw Andaman seascape where currents sculpt dramatic scenes. Set on North Andaman Island, Mayabunder is far less crowded than Havelock or Neil, making it ideal for photographers seeking clear water, natural behavior, and minimal bubbles in the frame. Expect hard-coral gardens, schooling fusiliers, turtles, and rewarding macro subjects—best explored with experienced local skippers and guides who understand tides and channels.
History and Importance
Mayabunder’s coast lies near channels like Austin Strait and offshore sanctuaries that nurture coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and turtle rookeries. This lower-tourism zone has historically seen fewer divers, which helps preserve shy marine life and reduces reef stress. For photographers, that means more natural encounters, less diver traffic, and room to compose slow, deliberate shots. Nearby protected areas—such as Interview Island Wildlife Sanctuary—underscore the region’s ecological value and the need for responsible imaging practices.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak conditions: November to April. Calmer seas, better visibility (often 10–30 m), water temps 27–29°C.
- Shoulder: October and May. Variable winds; go early morning for smoother surface and better light.
- Monsoon: June to September. Rough seas, rain, lower visibility; not ideal for photography or boating.
- Seasonal notes: Turtle activity around Karmatang Beach typically increases December–March (observe strict no-flash, distance rules). Occasional plankton blooms (late winter) can lower vis but create magical bokeh backscatter when lit skillfully.
Top Things to Do
1) Snorkel and Shallow-Water Shoots
- Calm lagoons and coves: Use mornings for glassy surfaces and over-under (split) shots with a dome port.
- Macro hunting: Look for nudibranchs, shrimps, blennies on rubble and seagrass edges; move slowly to reduce silt.
2) Boat Dives and Offshore Reefs
- Interview Island vicinity: Noted for clear water, fans, and turtles. Landing or close approaches may require Forest Department permissions; coordinate with a licensed operator.
- Austin Strait pinnacles: Dramatic topography and currents that attract pelagics—best for advanced divers with guides who understand tides.
3) Avis Island Over-Unders
- Turquoise shallows: Ideal for split shots, surface patterns, and sunbeams. Access can be restricted at times—check locally before planning.
4) Night Snorkeling/Macro (Conditions Permitting)
- Nocturnal critters: Cuttlefish, crustaceans, worms. Only with capable guides, safety lights, and within permitted areas. Avoid turtle nesting zones and do not use flash on turtles.
5) Private Workshops and Guided Sessions
- Limited local infrastructure: Arrange instruction or private charters with established operators based in Port Blair or Havelock; request itineraries that include Mayabunder when seas allow.
Nearby Attractions
- Karmatang Beach (15–30 min from town): Known for turtle nesting. Respect closures and red-light rules at night; excellent dawn shorescapes and drone-free zones.
- Avis Island (short boat ride): Powdery sands and a clear lagoon; access may be seasonally restricted—verify permissions.
- Interview Island Wildlife Sanctuary (offshore): Pristine waters; landings require permits and strict compliance. Often viewed from boats.
- Rangat (2–3 hours south): Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway for nature photography; potential for calm estuary scenes.
- Diglipur (3–4 hours north): Ross & Smith twin islands for sandbar vistas; Saddle Peak trek for terrestrial photography.
Practical Travel Information
How to Reach
- Fly: To Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport).
- By road to Mayabunder: 6–9 hours via ATR (Andaman Trunk Road) depending on vehicle and checkpoints; government and private buses run daily.
- By ferry: Infrequent government ferries connect Port Blair and Mayabunder; schedules change—check locally.
- Permits: Rules for certain islands and sanctuaries change; tribal reserves are strictly off-limits. For landings or close approaches (e.g., Interview Island), coordinate permissions with authorities/operators in advance.
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Simple guesthouses and government-run lodges (approx. ₹1,000–₹2,500 per night).
- Mid-range: Limited boutique stays or tourist lodges (approx. ₹3,000–₹6,000 per night).
- Luxury: Not available locally; consider basing in Port Blair/Havelock for upscale stays and chartering day trips when weather allows.
- Connectivity: Internet and card payments can be unreliable; carry cash and offline maps.
Dive Operators and Charters
- Local availability: Scuba infrastructure is limited in Mayabunder. Many photographers arrange trips with operators based in Port Blair or Havelock and request northern itineraries.
- Boat safety: Verify life jackets, radio, first-aid, oxygen kit (for scuba), and a licensed skipper. Confirm insurance and emergency plans.
Estimated Costs
- Port Blair–Mayabunder travel: Bus ₹500–₹800; private car ₹7,000–₹10,000 one-way; ferry ₹200–₹600 (when available).
- Snorkel boat (local, half-day): ₹3,000–₹6,000 shared; private charters ₹8,000–₹20,000+ depending on distance and fuel.
- Guided scuba (charter from Port Blair/Havelock): ₹12,000–₹18,000 per diver for a full day (2–3 dives) including gear; premiums apply for remote sites.
- Gear rental: Underwater camera/housing ₹1,500–₹4,000/day; dive gear ₹1,500–₹2,500/day.
- Permits: ₹0–₹1,000+ depending on destination and authority.
Recommended Gear and Camera Setup
- Wide-angle: 16–35mm equivalents with 6–8″ dome for reefs, turtles, over-unders.
- Macro: 60mm/100mm with one or two strobes and focus light for critters.
- Filters: Red/magenta for natural-light snorkel work; remove for strobes.
- Essentials: Spare O-rings, desiccants, microfiber, lanyards, reef hook for strong currents (use responsibly), and secure battery storage (follow airline rules for lithium cells).
Responsible Photography and Regulations
- No touching/standing on coral; no chasing wildlife.
- Turtles: No flash at night; maintain distance; follow beach access rules during nesting.
- Permits: Obtain required permissions for sanctuaries/landings; respect closures.
- Tribal reserves: Strictly prohibited—no approach or photography.
- Sun protection: Use reef-safe sunscreen; secure trash and batteries.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Seafood thalis: Fresh fish curry, rice, and seasonal sides in simple eateries.
- Vegetarian options: Basic North Indian dishes, dal, and rotis are widely available.
- Hydration: Carry your own water for boat days; refill at accommodations where possible.
Shopping
- Essentials only: Mayabunder has small markets. Stock spare AA/AAA batteries and snacks in Port Blair if needed.
- Souvenirs: Handicrafts are better sourced in Port Blair’s emporiums; buy responsibly and avoid shells/corals.
Culture
- Communities: A mix of Bengali, Karen, and Ranchi heritage. Karen villages are known for boat-building and carpentry.
- Etiquette: Ask permission before photographing people, boats, or workshops. Dress modestly in villages and religious spaces.
Tips for Underwater Photography in Mayabunder
- Plan around tides: Early slack tides often yield calmer seas and better visibility in channels.
- Mind the currents: Strong flows in straits can be photogenic for schooling fish but require solid buoyancy and a guide.
- Backscatter control: Get close, angle strobes out, and shoot slightly upward to minimize particles.
- Over-unders: Use a large dome, fast shutter (1/250–1/500), and keep the port half-submerged; clean water droplets frequently.
- Subject behavior: Approach slowly from the side, avoid blocking escape routes, and keep dive groups small to reduce stress.
- Redundancy: Bring spare O-rings, grease, and a basic tool kit—shops are far apart.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Choose sheltered coves for snorkel sessions; use flotation vests for kids.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and dry snacks; plan short morning outings.
Honeymooners
- Schedule golden-hour beach walks at Karmatang and calm-water split shots near lagoons.
- Consider a private boat for flexible timing and quieter frames.
Friends/Groups
- Charter larger boats to spread gear and shoot in rotation.
- Agree on hand signals for photo setups; spotters can help find macro subjects.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to be a certified diver to photograph underwater in Mayabunder?
A: No—snorkeling in shallow, clear lagoons can yield excellent images. For scuba sites (especially channels and pinnacles), certification and recent experience in currents are strongly recommended.
Q: When is the best month for underwater visibility?
A: Generally December to March offers the most consistent calm seas and clearer water, with early mornings often best.
Q: Are there dive shops in Mayabunder?
A: Local infrastructure is limited. Most photographers arrange trips with established operators from Port Blair or Havelock who can plan northern charters when weather allows.
Q: Can I visit Interview Island for photography?
A: It’s a wildlife sanctuary; landings and close approaches may require permits and are subject to closures. Always coordinate with authorities and licensed operators and follow regulations.
Q: Is equipment rental available locally?
A: Underwater camera rentals are not reliably available in Mayabunder. Rent in Port Blair/Havelock or bring your own, including spares and maintenance kits.
Conclusion
Mayabunder rewards underwater photographers with quiet reefs, clear water days, and authentic Andaman seascapes. Plan for the dry season, coordinate with reputable operators, and pack smart to handle currents and remoteness. With respectful practices and an eye for morning light, you’ll capture both wide-angle drama and intimate macro scenes in one of the archipelago’s least-crowded corners.
