Best Time to Visit Cutbert Bay Beach (Turtle Nesting), Rangat

Cutbert Bay Beach, part of the Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary near Rangat in Middle Andaman, is one of the archipelago’s most rewarding places to witness sea turtles nesting. The beach is primarily visited for conservation-friendly turtle watching, calm coastal scenery, and a quieter, more rustic slice of the Andamans than the popular resort islands. Knowing when to go makes all the difference—both for your experience and for the turtles.

Quick Answer

Best overall window: November to April for pleasant weather and calmer seas.

Peak turtle nesting: December to February (mostly olive ridley turtles; green and hawksbill occasional, leatherback rare).

Best chance to see hatchlings: January to March, typically around dawn or dusk when releases from hatcheries may occur.

Understanding the Seasons in Middle Andaman

Winter and Early Dry Season (November–February)

This is the prime tourism season: temperatures around 23–30°C, lower humidity, and the calmest seas. Night skies are often clearer, aiding guided turtle-watching. This period aligns with the peak nesting months.

Late Dry Season / Early Summer (March–April)

Warmer (25–32°C) and a bit more humid, but still generally good. You can often see late nesters and hatchlings. Sea conditions remain manageable, though afternoons can be hot.

Monsoon (May–September)

Heavy, frequent rains and rougher seas reduce access and comfort. Trails may be muddy, and organized night patrols may be curtailed by weather. Turtle sightings are fewer; this is not recommended for turtle-focused travel.

Transitional Shoulder (October)

Rains ease and the season turns. Weather can be mixed, but by late October trips become more reliable. Early-season nesting sometimes begins late in the month.

Turtle Nesting Calendar at Cutbert Bay

• November–December: First arrivals; growing frequency of nesting crawls on suitable nights.
• December–February (Peak): Highest likelihood of witnessing nesting. Most guided night walks operate consistently.
• January–March: Hatching period at many nests; chances to see hatchlings released from hatcheries (subject to conservation staff decisions).
• March–April: Tapering nesting; sporadic events continue, with hatchlings still possible.

Best Nights by Moon and Tide

Turtles often prefer darker, quieter beaches. Your odds improve on new moon or low-light nights and during rising to high tide. Typical guided hours are between 8:00 pm and 2:00 am. Always follow the forest staff’s schedule and instructions.

Weather and Sea Conditions: What to Expect

• Temperature: 23–30°C (Nov–Feb); 25–32°C (Mar–Apr).
• Rainfall: Light to moderate in Nov–Dec; lowest Jan–Mar; heavy May–Sep.
• Humidity: Moderate in winter, rising into summer.
• Wind/Sea: Calmer Nov–Apr; choppy during monsoon—can disrupt ferries and coastal activities.

Crowd Levels and Costs by Season

• Dec–Feb: Most popular; secure transport, guides, and stays early. Still far quieter than the resort islands.
• Mar–Apr: Fewer visitors, good availability, good for photographers and patient wildlife watchers.
• Jun–Sep: Low visitation; weather limitations; many activities scaled back.

Planning Timeline

• 6–8 weeks out: Book flights to Port Blair and accommodation in Rangat or nearby.
• 2–4 weeks out: Check current forest department guidelines for night viewing and any required permissions.
• 1 week out: Confirm local transport and guide availability; track moon phase if you’re optimizing for darker nights.
• On arrival: Touch base with the Forest Range Office or sanctuary staff for timings, do’s and don’ts, and any last-minute changes due to weather or conservation needs.

Ethical Turtle-Watching Guidelines

• Always go with authorized guides or forest staff; permits or registrations may be required.
• No flash, white lights, or phone screens—use a red-filter torch only when allowed.
• Keep distance: At least 10 meters; never block a turtle’s path to or from the sea.
• No touching, feeding, or handling turtles or hatchlings unless directed by conservation staff.
• Stay low, quiet, and behind the turtle’s field of view; avoid sudden movements.
• Leave no trace: Pack out all litter; avoid stepping on dune vegetation or marked nests.

What to Pack

• Red-light headlamp or clip-on red filter for a torch.
• Light, breathable clothing, long sleeves and pants for bugs.
• Insect repellent (use judiciously, away from turtles), and a small first-aid kit.
• Waterproof footwear or sandals suitable for sandy, damp terrain.
• Rain layer if traveling Oct–Dec or Apr.
• Dry bag for electronics; binoculars for distant views.

Getting There and Staying Nearby

Reaching Rangat

• By road from Port Blair: Via the Andaman Trunk Road (with vehicle ferries across creeks). Travel time is typically 6–8 hours by bus or private car, depending on crossings and road conditions.
• By ferry: Services operate subject to schedules and weather; less frequent than buses. Check locally for current routes to Rangat.

Where to Stay

• Rangat town: Basic guesthouses and lodges; convenient for arranging guides and permits.
• Eco-huts/forest accommodation: Limited and seasonal near mangrove walkways or sanctuary zones; availability varies—book ahead and confirm conditions.

There are no facilities on the nesting beach itself. Plan for an early night, then a guided outing, and return to your accommodation after the patrol.

Month-by-Month at a Glance

November

Season starts; some nesting nights; occasional showers possible. Good balance of availability and sightings improving toward month’s end.

December

Peak begins. Cooler nights, frequent nesting activity. Book guides early, especially around new moon.

January

Peak continues with the added thrill of early hatchlings on some days. Excellent overall conditions.

February

Consistent nesting and comfortable weather. A sweet spot for fewer crowds than late December.

March

Warm but manageable. Late nests and hatchlings are possible; quieter beaches reward patient watchers.

April

Hotter afternoons; nesting tapers. Hatchlings may still be released. Good for travelers who prefer solitude.

May

Pre-monsoon heat and humidity rise; storms possible. Turtle-focused trips not ideal.

June–September

Monsoon: heavy rains and rough seas. Not recommended for turtle watching or beach time.

October

Transition back to better weather; late month can see early nesting activity and fewer visitors.

Special Tips

• Families: Choose Dec–Feb for the best odds, and consider early-night patrol slots. Carry snacks and warm layers for kids.
• Photographers: Prioritize new moon windows Dec–Feb. Respect no-flash rules; consider high-ISO, fast primes, and silhouettes under starlight when permitted.
• Budget travelers: Travel in Jan–Mar midweeks for value; use public buses on the ATR and book simple lodges in Rangat.

Safety and Etiquette

• No swimming at night; currents can be strong, and this is turtle habitat.
• Heed crocodile advisories where posted; avoid creeks and mangrove edges, especially at dusk/dawn.
• Footprints and holes on the beach can trap hatchlings—smooth the sand if you’ve disturbed it.

FAQs

Do I need a permit or guide to see turtle nesting?

Procedures can change. Typically, you should coordinate with the forest department or authorized local guides. They’ll advise on timings, access, and conduct rules. Always check current requirements.

What time of night are sightings most likely?

Guided patrols generally run between 8:00 pm and 2:00 am. Activity varies by tides, moonlight, and season.

Will I definitely see turtles?

No wildlife sighting is guaranteed. Visiting Dec–Feb, avoiding bright moonlit nights when possible, and going with experienced guides significantly improves your chances.

Can I take photos?

Only without flash and as directed by your guide. Many beaches allow red light and limited, careful photography; some moments (like emergence) may be off-limits to protect the turtles.

Is Cutbert Bay suitable if I’m not focused on turtles?

Yes, for quiet beaches, mangrove walks, and birding around Rangat. But the area is low-key with simple facilities; for snorkeling or resort comforts, combine your trip with other islands.

Bottom Line

For the best blend of weather, access, and wildlife, plan your Cutbert Bay trip for December to February. If you’re keen on hatchlings and fewer crowds, January to March is excellent. Avoid the monsoon months. Above all, prioritize ethical, guide-led viewing to help keep this remarkable nesting site thriving for generations.