Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance of Parasailing in the Andaman Islands
- Best Time for Parasailing
- Top Parasailing Experiences & Best Spots
- How to Reach the Andamans & Launch Points
- Estimated Costs & Money-Saving Tips
- Accommodation Options Near Parasailing Sites
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Nearby Attractions to Combine with Parasailing
- Practical Tips & Safety
- Traveler-Specific Advice (Families, Honeymooners, Friends)
- Packing Checklist
- FAQs about Parasailing in the Andaman Islands
- Conclusion
Introduction
Parasailing in the Andaman Islands blends the thrill of flight with postcard-perfect views—emerald forests, turquoise lagoons, and sugar-white beaches. Whether you launch from Port Blair’s calm bays or soar above Havelock’s translucent waters, this bucket-list activity offers a fresh perspective on one of India’s most spectacular archipelagos.
From beginner-friendly tandem rides to photo-ready sunset sessions, Andaman parasailing is safe, seasonal, and surprisingly accessible—ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends looking to add adventure to their island itinerary.
History & Importance of Parasailing in the Andaman Islands
Recreational water sports grew rapidly in the Andamans after increased tourist inflows in the 2000s. Parasailing followed scuba diving and snorkeling as a signature soft-adventure, driven by calm bays, reliable winter winds, and improved safety standards.
Today, parasailing supports local livelihoods around Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). Operators typically use winch-boat systems for smoother takeoffs/landings directly from the vessel, making the experience accessible to a wider age and fitness range.
Best Time for Parasailing
- Peak season: October to May. Expect clearer skies, calmer seas, and consistent winds—ideal for smooth rides and great visibility.
- Shoulder months: Late September and early June can work if weather holds, but rides are more prone to cancellation.
- Monsoon (June–September): Unpredictable winds and rough seas often halt operations. Always check conditions.
- Best time of day: Morning (8 am–11 am) for calmer seas and softer light; late afternoon for sunsets when offered.
Top Parasailing Experiences & Best Spots
Best Spots for Parasailing
- North Bay Island (near Port Blair): Classic parasailing waters with sweeping views of the lighthouse and reefs. Accessed by boat from Port Blair.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach (Port Blair): Quick-to-reach city beach (approx. 7 km), popular for short, scenic rides and first-timers.
- Havelock Island / Swaraj Dweep: Clear waters and vibrant coral hues; some operators run parasailing near Govind Nagar or Elephant Beach zone (weather/permissions dependent).
- Neil Island / Shaheed Dweep (Bharatpur Beach): Lagoon-like conditions; availability varies seasonally.
Types of Parasailing Experiences
- Tandem parasailing: Two riders share the thrill—perfect for couples or parent + child (within operator weight limits).
- Solo parasailing: For confident flyers who want a lighter, more agile canopy.
- Winch-boat takeoff/landing: The most common and comfortable setup in the Andamans.
- Photo/GoPro add-ons: Many operators offer onboard photography or helmet-mounted footage (extra charge).
What to Expect
- Duration aloft: Typically 5–10 minutes per flight; total boat time 30–60 minutes depending on group size.
- Heights: Approximately 100–300 feet above water (varies by wind and operator policy).
- Eligibility: Common weight window 30–120 kg; minimum age often 6–8 years with adult. Medical conditions should be disclosed.
How to Reach the Andamans & Launch Points
Reaching the Andaman Islands
- By Air: Fly into Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport, IXZ) from major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Hyderabad. Flight time: ~2–3.5 hours.
- By Sea: Occasional passenger ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (multi-day, basic facilities). Not ideal for short trips.
Getting to Parasailing Launch Sites
- North Bay Island: Boats depart from the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Port Blair. Ride time ~20–30 minutes.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach (Port Blair): ~15–20 minutes by taxi/auto from city center.
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep): Ferry from Port Blair (1.5–2.5 hours). Local taxis/2-wheelers to beaches/jetty as instructed by operator.
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Ferry from Port Blair (1–2 hours) or Havelock (~1 hour). Bharatpur Beach is a short ride from the jetty.
Permits & Entry
- Indian nationals: No special permit for Port Blair, Havelock, or Neil Island.
- Foreign travelers: Entry formalities are handled on arrival at Port Blair; carry passport, visa, and travel bookings. Access to certain islands remains restricted; stick to permitted tourist zones.
Estimated Costs & Money-Saving Tips
Typical Parasailing Prices (per person)
- Port Blair (Corbyn’s Cove/North Bay): INR 2,500–3,500 for 5–10 minutes aloft.
- Havelock/Neil: INR 3,000–4,500 (availability and season may affect rates).
- Photos/Video: INR 500–1,000 extra, depending on package.
Prices vary by season, wind conditions, fuel costs, and operator. Always confirm inclusions (life jacket, boat time, taxes) and refund policies for weather cancellations.
Other Trip Costs (indicative)
- Ferries: Govt. ferry INR 300–800; private catamarans INR 1,200–2,200 per person, one way.
- Local transport: Taxi from airport to city INR 300–600; 2-wheeler rentals INR 500–800 per day (where permitted).
Money-Saving Tips
- Bundle parasailing with other water sports during weekdays for combo discounts.
- Choose morning slots—fewer cancellations mean less risk of rescheduling costs.
- Book ferries early in peak months (Dec–Feb, March) to avoid surge pricing.
Accommodation Options Near Parasailing Sites
- Port Blair: Best for easy access to North Bay and Corbyn’s Cove. Options from budget guesthouses to mid-range business hotels and boutique stays.
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep): Beach resorts, eco-cottages, and homestays close to Govind Nagar/Radhanagar. Great for 2–3 night stays.
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Smaller, quieter selection of beachside stays near Bharatpur/Laxmanpur.
Budget guide (per night, double):
- Budget: INR 1,000–3,000
- Mid-range: INR 3,000–7,000
- Premium/Resort: INR 8,000–20,000+
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food to Try
- Grilled fish, prawns, crab, and lobster—often cooked simply with lime, chili, and garlic.
- Island-style fish curry with coconut notes; prawn masala; light tandoori seafood platters.
- Vegetarian staples: South Indian thalis, dosas, and seasonal island produce.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar (Port Blair): spices, island crafts, shell-themed souvenirs (avoid real coral/turtle shell—illegal).
- Local art, wooden handicrafts, handwoven accessories. Always ensure ethical sourcing.
Culture & Etiquette
- Respect protected areas and indigenous communities—no unauthorized visits or photography.
- Be eco-conscious: no littering, no stepping on corals, reef-safe sunscreen preferred.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Parasailing
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail & light-and-sound show; Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) ruins; Chidiya Tapu sunset point.
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep): Radhanagar Beach (sunset), Elephant Beach (snorkeling), Kalapathar Beach (photo stops).
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Natural Bridge, Laxmanpur Beach (sunset), Bharatpur Beach (glass-bottom boat rides).
Practical Tips & Safety
- Choose licensed operators: Check life jackets, harness condition, and weather briefings.
- Listen to your crew: Follow hand signals; keep arms straight during takeoff/landing.
- Weather wins: Andaman operators cancel for safety—be flexible with your schedule.
- Health & eligibility: Avoid if pregnant or with recent surgeries, severe back/neck issues, or uncontrolled cardiac conditions.
- Sun & sea care: Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses with strap, and hydration.
- Insurance: Consider travel insurance that covers water sports.
Traveler-Specific Advice (Families, Honeymooners, Friends)
Families
- Ask for tandem options for younger flyers; confirm minimum age/weight in advance.
- Book morning slots when seas are calmer for kids.
Honeymooners
- Pick golden-hour flights for stunning photos; add-on video packages for keepsakes.
- Pair parasailing with a romantic sunset at Radhanagar or Laxmanpur.
Friends & Groups
- Reserve a private boat time for back-to-back flights and shared media packages.
- Build an “adventure day” with jet ski + snorkeling + parasailing combos.
Packing Checklist
- Quick-dry clothing or swimwear; lightweight cover-up.
- Secure footwear (water shoes) or go barefoot per operator guidance.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses with strap.
- Waterproof phone pouch (if allowed) or opt for operator photos.
- Motion-sickness tablets if you’re boat-sensitive.
- Small dry bag for valuables; towel and change of clothes.
FAQs about Parasailing in the Andaman Islands
Q: Is parasailing safe in the Andamans for first-timers?
A: Yes—licensed operators use winch-boat systems, life jackets, and safety briefings. Choose calm-weather slots, disclose medical issues, and follow crew instructions.
Q: How long does a parasailing ride last?
A: The flight itself is usually 5–10 minutes, while total boat time can be 30–60 minutes depending on group size and sea conditions.
Q: What is the cost of parasailing in Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil?
A: Expect INR 2,500–3,500 in Port Blair and INR 3,000–4,500 in Havelock/Neil per person, excluding optional photo/video add-ons (INR 500–1,000).
Q: What should I wear for parasailing?
A: Quick-dry clothes or swimwear, light cover-up, reef-safe sunscreen, and sunglasses with a strap. Avoid loose items that can fly off.
Q: Will my parasailing be canceled if it’s windy?
A: Operators cancel during unsafe winds, rain, or rough seas. Morning slots are more reliable; confirm refund/reschedule policies when booking.
Conclusion
Parasailing in the Andaman Islands delivers an unforgettable blend of adrenaline and island beauty. With reliable winter weather, beginner-friendly setups, and multiple launch points across Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil, it’s an easy addition to most itineraries. Plan for morning flights, choose reputable operators, and pair your sky-high ride with classic Andaman experiences—from coral snorkeling to sunset beaches—for a well-rounded, memory-rich trip.
