North Bay Island, Port Blair – Things To Do, Travel Tips, and How to Plan

North Bay Island, a short boat ride from Port Blair in the Andaman Islands, is one of the archipelago’s most accessible marine playgrounds. Famous for its lighthouse (featured on the older Indian ₹20 note), the island offers an easy introduction to the Andaman’s tropical reefs with a wide range of water sports, underwater experiences, and family-friendly activities. It’s typically paired with a visit to nearby Ross Island (now Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), making it a classic half-day or full-day excursion from Port Blair.

Fast Facts

• Distance/Time: About 8–10 km from Port Blair; 25–30 minutes by boat.
• Best for: First-time snorkelers/divers, families, non-swimmers (sea walk, glass-bottom), quick coral experience near the city.
• Stay: Day trips only; no overnight accommodation on the island.
• Pair With: Ross/NSCB Island heritage walk on the same day.

How to Reach

Regular boats and speedboats depart from Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex (Aberdeen Jetty) in Port Blair. Most visitors book a combined Ross Island + North Bay Island boat package.

• First departures: Typically from 8:30–9:30 AM; last returns by mid-to-late afternoon (check on the day).
• Tickets: Available via tour operators or directly at the jetty; private speedboats can be chartered.
• Seasonality: Boat operations depend on weather/sea conditions; services may be curtailed in the monsoon.

Top Things to Do on North Bay Island

1) Snorkeling over Fringing Reefs

Snorkeling is the island’s signature activity. Expect shallow reefs with hard corals, reef fish, and calm patches suitable for beginners.

• Who it’s for: First-timers and casual snorkelers; ideal if you want a quick reef taste without long transfers.
• What you’ll see: Parrotfish, sergeant majors, butterflyfish, clownfish, damsels; occasional giant clams and feather stars.
• Tips: Ask for a guide and a life buoy if you’re not confident. Use reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or step on corals.

2) Introductory Scuba Diving

Try an intro dive with a certified instructor (PADI/SSI). No prior experience is required, and depth is shallow enough for beginners.

• Duration: Typically 20–40 minutes of underwater time after a short briefing and confined water practice.
• Highlights: Hands-free buoyancy with instructor, close-up look at corals and fish, underwater photos/videos available at extra cost.
• Note: If you want the best visibility in the region, advanced divers often choose sites farther from Port Blair; North Bay is great for a first taste.

3) Underwater Sea Walk (Helmet Walk)

Perfect for non-swimmers, the sea walk lets you walk on the seabed wearing a weighted helmet that pumps air.

• What to expect: Descend via ladder to a sandy patch near reef, walk among fish, hand-feed under supervision (where allowed), get photos.
• Comfort: Hair/face remains dry; glasses/contact lenses are usually fine. Follow guide instructions for equalizing.

4) Glass-Bottom Boat Rides

A great option for seniors, kids, or anyone who prefers to stay dry, glass-bottom rides skim above coral gardens.

• Best seats: Center panels; opt for rides at mid-morning to early afternoon on a sunny day for better clarity.
• Family-friendly: Often the least intimidating way to enjoy the reef.

5) Semi-Submarine Coral Safari

The Coral Safari semi-submarine offers large underwater viewing windows without getting wet.

• Visibility: Better than small glass-bottoms; ideal for those who want an immersive reef look, camera-friendly.
• Booking: Seats can fill up in peak season; check schedules and pricing in advance.

6) Parasailing and Adventure Rides

Depending on sea conditions and operator availability, you may find parasailing, jet ski, banana boat, and sofa rides.

• When available: Typically Oct–May in calm weather; operations may pause with high winds or swell.
• Safety: Ensure life jackets, helmets (for jet ski), and follow crew instructions.

7) Lighthouse Hike and Viewpoint

The North Bay Lighthouse is an easy, short uphill walk from the landing area and rewards you with panoramic views of Ross/NSCB Island and Port Blair’s coastline.

• Tip: Carry water, a hat, and sun protection; shade is limited.
• Access: Entry into the lighthouse tower may not always be open; the viewpoint is still worthwhile.

8) Beach Time and Photography

Set aside time to relax under palms, swim in designated zones, and capture the lighthouse and boats dotting the turquoise water.

• Drone use: Restricted—requires permissions. Stick to handheld cameras unless you have permits.

Best Time to Visit

• Peak conditions: October to May, with the clearest water generally from December to March.
• Monsoon (June–September): Seas can be rough; many water sports suspend operations and visibility drops.
• Daily timing: Mornings typically offer calmer seas and better light for underwater visibility.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day Classic

• Morning boat to Ross/NSCB Island for a heritage walk (British-era ruins, deer, banyan groves).
• Late morning transfer to North Bay for snorkeling/glass-bottom and lighthouse viewpoint.
• Return by mid-afternoon.

Full-Day Water Sports Focus

• Arrive early at North Bay; book sea walk or intro dive first for calmer seas.
• Follow with glass-bottom or semi-submarine and beach time.
• Wrap up with a quick lighthouse visit before the last return boats.

Approximate Costs (Indicative)

Prices vary by operator, season, and inclusions; always confirm on the day.

• Boat package (Ross + North Bay): Budget to mid-range per person.
• Snorkeling (guided): ~₹500–₹1,200+
• Intro Scuba Dive: ~₹3,500–₹5,500 (photos/video extra)
• Sea Walk: ~₹3,500–₹4,500
• Glass-Bottom Boat: ~₹700–₹1,200
• Semi-Submarine (Coral Safari): ~₹1,800–₹3,000
• Parasailing/Jet Ski: Priced per ride; subject to availability and conditions

Note: Government taxes, environmental/landing fees, and camera charges may apply. Keep some cash as digital payments can be patchy.

Facilities, Food, and Services

• Lockers & changing rooms: Usually available near the activity counters.
• Shacks & snacks: Simple eateries serve bottled water, coconuts, tea, snacks, and basic meals; options are limited.
• Restrooms: Basic facilities near the landing/activity area.
• Network/ATM: Mobile data can be inconsistent; no ATMs on the island—carry cash.
• Shade: Limited; bring hats/umbrellas.

Responsible Travel & Marine Etiquette

• Do not touch, step on, or collect corals/shells. It’s illegal and damages fragile life.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen or wear long-sleeve rash guards to reduce chemical impact.
• Dispose of waste properly; avoid single-use plastic. Follow local bans and instructions.
• Keep a safe distance from marine life; no feeding unless under regulated programs.

Safety and Permits

• Life jackets are mandatory on boats and for most water activities.
• Medical considerations: Inform instructors of conditions like asthma, heart issues, epilepsy; follow dive/sea-walk health forms.
• Weather calls: Operators may cancel or reschedule for safety; respect crew decisions.
• Foreign nationals: The Andamans require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), usually issued on arrival; day visits to North Bay are allowed under current norms.

What to Pack

• Swimwear, quick-dry towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Aqua shoes or strap-on sandals; avoid walking on coral
• Waterproof phone pouch, dry bag, spare battery/power bank
• Light snacks, refillable water bottle (carry out all trash)
• Government ID, cash, printed bookings if possible

Good to Know

• Family friendly: Glass-bottom and semi-submarine suit all ages; many operators have age/height restrictions for sea walk and diving.
• Photography: Underwater photo/video packages are commonly offered for sea walk/diving—confirm quality, inclusions, and delivery method.
• Sun & heat: The tropical sun is strong; hydrate frequently and take shade breaks.
• Jellyfish season: Occasionally present; follow lifeguard/operator advice and wear full-sleeve rash guards if advised.

FAQs

Is North Bay good for non-swimmers?

Yes. Sea walk, glass-bottom boats, and the semi-submarine are designed for non-swimmers. You can also float with life jackets during guided snorkels.

Can I visit Ross/NSCB and North Bay on the same day?

Absolutely. Most standard packages do both. Start early to fit in water sports comfortably.

Are sunsets possible at North Bay?

Usually not. Boats return by mid-to-late afternoon. Plan sunrise/sunset views from Port Blair’s promenades instead.

Are corals better elsewhere?

For pristine reefs and clarity, sites farther from Port Blair (e.g., Jolly Buoy/Red Skin when open, or Havelock/Neil dive sites) can excel. North Bay is popular for convenience and beginner-friendly experiences.

Wrap-Up

North Bay Island is a fun, convenient gateway to the Andaman underwater world—ideal for first-timers, families, and anyone short on time. Mix a sea walk or intro dive with a glass-bottom ride, snap the lighthouse view, and pair it with Ross/NSCB Island for a well-rounded day. Plan ahead in peak season, go early, and follow marine-friendly practices to make the most of your visit.