Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Travel Tips & Responsible Travel
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
For travelers chasing the Andamans beyond the usual Havelock and Neil, Guitar Island and Merk Bay are the kind of places you whisper about—powder-white sand, clear turquoise lagoons, and practically no one around. Set off the coast of Long Island in Middle Andaman, these uninhabited gems are perfect for a serene day trip filled with snorkeling, sunbathing, and slow island time. If you love quiet beaches, birdsong, and glassy waters, this offbeat duo will feel like your private postcard.
History & Importance
These islands hold little in the way of recorded human history; their importance is ecological. As largely untouched marine and coastal habitats, they offer:
- Healthy lagoon ecosystems with seagrass and coral patches that support reef fish, sea cucumbers, and occasional turtles.
- Resting and nesting areas for coastal birds; mornings are especially active for birdwatching.
- Low-impact nature experiences that showcase why Andaman’s outer islands merit careful conservation.
Local boatmen coordinate timings with tides and weather to minimize impact and keep visits safe.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: November to April (calm seas, clear visibility, sunny days). Early mornings offer the smoothest crossings.
- Shoulder season: Late September–October and May (possible brief showers; check sea state).
- Avoid: Southwest monsoon, typically June–August (rough seas, limited boat operations).
- Tide tip: Low to mid-tide is best for sandbar walks at Guitar Island; check tide charts locally.
Top Things to Do
1) Snorkeling in Calm Lagoons
- Spot hard corals, reef fish, and bright clams in shallow water. Wear a rash guard and use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Always go with a boatman’s guidance; avoid stepping on coral or stirring up sand.
2) Sandbar Strolls at Guitar Island
- At low tide a pale ribbon of sand emerges—picture-perfect for walks and photos.
- Keep an eye on the tide; the sandbar can vanish quickly as waters rise.
3) Swim & Sun at Merk Bay
- Merk Bay’s gentle gradient is great for casual swims on calm days.
- There are no lifeguards; use life jackets if unsure and avoid strong-current zones.
4) Birdwatching & Beachcombing
- Watch for kingfishers, herons, and shorebirds. Early hours are best.
- Beachcombing is lovely—photograph shells, but do not collect or remove them.
5) Pair with Long Island & Lalaji Bay
- Hike or boat to Lalaji Bay from Long Island for an emerald cove backed by forest.
- Explore mangrove creeks near Long Island for a quiet, nature-forward excursion.
How to Reach
Step 1: Port Blair to Rangat
- By road: 6–8 hours via the Andaman Trunk Road (shared jeeps, government/private buses, or hired car).
- By ferry (subject to schedule): 6–7 hours from Port Blair to Rangat. Check tickets a day or two in advance.
Step 2: Rangat to Long Island
- Boat from Yerrata Jetty (near Rangat): ~30–60 minutes. Morning departures are common; buy tickets early.
- Occasional schedule changes; confirm at the jetty counter.
Step 3: Long Island to Guitar Island & Merk Bay
- Hire a registered local fiber boat: ~30–45 minutes each way, weather and tide dependent.
- Typical plan: Early morning departure, return before afternoon winds pick up.
- Permits/entries, if any, are usually handled by the boatman; carry ID.
Permits & Rules
- Indian nationals: Typically no special permit for day trips via licensed boats.
- Foreign nationals: Ensure your Restricted Area Permit is valid and travel only to permitted islands; confirm latest rules locally.
- No camping or night stays on uninhabited islands; respect forest and coast guard advisories.
Accommodation Options
Stay on Long Island (recommended for early starts)
- Government Guest House/Rest House: Basic, budget-friendly rooms; book locally or via district contacts.
- Simple eco-stays/guesthouses: Modest facilities, home-cooked meals often by pre-order.
Stay in Rangat (if you prefer town access)
- Tourism lodges such as Hawksbill Nest (subject to availability) and assorted budget hotels/guesthouses near Rangat bazaar.
- Good for ATMs, markets, and onward connections, with a morning boat to Long Island.
Note: Accommodation inventory is limited. Book early in peak months and confirm meal plans; dining options are few.
Estimated Costs
- Port Blair → Rangat (bus/shared jeep): INR 500–900 per person; private cab higher.
- Port Blair → Rangat (ferry): ~INR 400–900 per person, class-dependent.
- Rangat → Long Island boat: ~INR 100–300 per person (government boat), subject to revision.
- Long Island ↔ Guitar/Merk Bay private boat: ~INR 4,000–7,000 per boat (2–6 pax), depending on duration, fuel, season.
- Snorkel set rental (if available locally): ~INR 300–800 per set/day; best to carry your own.
- Rooms on Long Island: ~INR 800–3,500 per night depending on property and season.
- Meals: Simple thalis/snacks ~INR 200–500 per person per meal.
Prices fluctuate with fuel costs, season, and availability. Always reconfirm on the ground.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Expect simple island fare: fish curry thalis, dal–sabzi, omelettes, and fresh coconuts.
- Pre-order meals with your stay; carry snacks and plenty of drinking water for the day trip.
Shopping
- Very limited on Long Island—tiny provision shops for basics. Stock up in Rangat (cash preferred).
- No souvenir markets on Guitar Island/Merk Bay; keep the islands trash-free.
Culture
- Settler communities (Bengali, Tamil, others) shape a slow, friendly island rhythm.
- Respect local norms: modest beachwear around villages, ask before photographing people, and minimize plastic use.
Nearby Attractions
- Lalaji Bay Beach (Long Island): Quiet crescent beach, trek or boat accessible.
- Mangrove Creeks (Long Island): Serene boat rides amid roots and birdlife.
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway (near Rangat): A scenic boardwalk through mangroves.
- Amkunj Eco Beach (Rangat): Driftwood art, sunset spot.
- Cutbert Bay Turtle Nesting (seasonal, Dec–Feb): Night patrols may be possible with permission.
Travel Tips & Responsible Travel
- Weather & Tides: Plan for mornings; check wind and tide charts before departure.
- Safety: Wear life jackets on boats; there are no lifeguards. Avoid swimming in swell or strong currents.
- Pack list: Dry bag, hat, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, quick-dry towel, basic first aid, power bank, cash.
- Gear: Bring your own mask/snorkel for best fit; boatmen may have limited spares.
- Leave No Trace: Take all trash back to Long Island/Rangat; do not collect shells, corals, or driftwood.
- Connectivity & Cash: Mobile signal is patchy; ATMs are limited and can be offline. Carry sufficient cash.
- Restrictions: No alcohol on boats; drones may require permissions—check locally.
Traveler-Specific Tips
For Families
- Choose calm, morning windows; confirm life jackets in multiple sizes.
- Shade is minimal—carry a light beach tent/umbrella and extra water.
- Restrooms are not available on the islands; plan short stays with kids.
For Honeymooners
- Coordinate with your boatman for low-tide sandbar timing at Guitar Island.
- Pack a simple picnic; keep it eco-friendly and carry back all waste.
- Golden-hour photos are stunning—mind rising tides and equipment safety.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Share boat costs by forming small groups on Long Island.
- Combine with a trek to Lalaji Bay and a mangrove ride for a full adventure day.
- Overnight camping on uninhabited islands is not allowed; stay on Long Island or in Rangat.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Guitar Island and Merk Bay?
A: Indian nationals generally don’t need special permits for a day trip via licensed boats. Foreign nationals must hold a valid Restricted Area Permit and travel only to permitted zones. Always confirm current rules at Rangat/Long Island.
Q: Can I stay overnight or camp on the islands?
A: No. These are uninhabited and sensitive coastal habitats. Day visits only; overnights and camping are not allowed.
Q: Are there toilets, cafes, or shops on the islands?
A: No facilities exist on Guitar Island or Merk Bay. Carry drinking water, snacks, and take all trash back with you. Basic supplies are available on Long Island and better stocked in Rangat.
Q: Is snorkeling safe and can I rent gear?
A: Snorkeling is safe on calm days with a life jacket and local guidance. Gear rental is limited—bring your own mask and snorkel for best fit. Avoid touching corals and watch for jellyfish in certain seasons.
Q: What’s the best month and time of day to go?
A: November–April is ideal, with the smoothest crossings early in the morning. For Guitar Island’s sandbar, aim for low tide—check tides locally the day before.
Conclusion
Guitar Island and Merk Bay distill the Andamans to their quiet essence: clear lagoons, soft sand, and the soundtrack of wind and waves. Base yourself on Long Island, start early, travel light, and tread gently. Time your visit with the tides, respect the islands’ fragile ecology, and you’ll come away with memories of an Andaman still blissfully offbeat.
