Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Take a Semi-Submarine Ride
- Top Things to Do During the Semi-Submarine Experience
- How to Reach
- Estimated Costs
- Accommodation Options
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Practical Tips
- Traveler-Specific Advice
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Semi-submarine rides in the Andaman Islands offer an effortless window into the underwater world—perfect for families, non-swimmers, and anyone who wants to see coral gardens and tropical fish without getting wet. From Port Blair’s North Bay Island to experiences near Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), these air-conditioned vessels feature below-sea-level cabins with large viewing windows, revealing Andaman’s vibrant reefs, parrotfish, clownfish, butterflyfish, and more.
History & Importance
As Andaman opened up for responsible marine tourism, semi-submarine experiences—most notably the Coral Safari at North Bay Island—emerged to make reef viewing accessible to all. Built to international safety standards, these vessels reduce direct human contact with sensitive reefs while raising awareness about coral conservation. They have become a signature Andaman activity, complementing snorkeling, scuba, and sea-walking for a fuller understanding of the islands’ marine biodiversity.
Best Time to Take a Semi-Submarine Ride
- Season: October to May offers the calmest seas and clearest visibility.
- Time of day: Late morning (around 9:30–12:30) generally provides better light penetration for vibrant colors.
- Avoid: Peak monsoon periods (typically June–September) can bring choppy waters and reduced visibility; trips may be weather-dependent.
Top Things to Do During the Semi-Submarine Experience
- Choose the right side: Ask crew which side will face the reef track on your trip; views can vary with route.
- Spot marine life: Look for clownfish in anemones, giant clams, angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, groupers, and branching staghorn corals.
- Photography tips: Use a polarizing filter or adjust exposure to avoid window glare; turn off flash.
- Combine experiences: Pair with snorkeling or a sea walk at North Bay (Port Blair) or a beach visit in Havelock for a full day outdoors.
- Learn on board: Many trips include narration about reef ecology and conservation—great for kids and first-timers.
How to Reach
Getting to Andaman
- By air: Fly into Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair, from major Indian cities.
- By sea: Occasional passenger ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (multi-day; limited schedules).
Where the semi-submarine rides operate
- Port Blair (North Bay Island): Coral Safari semi-submarine typically departs via transfer from Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex; ride areas are around North Bay’s reefs.
- Havelock/Swaraj Dweep: Glass-bottom and semi-sub-style reef viewing trips are available near Elephant Beach; offerings vary by operator and season.
Local transfers
- Port Blair to jetty: 10–20 minutes by taxi/auto to Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex; boat transfer to North Bay is commonly included in packages.
- Inter-island ferries: Government and private ferries (e.g., fast catamarans) connect Port Blair–Havelock–Neil; typical duration 60–120 minutes depending on route and sea state.
- Permits: No special permit is generally needed for standard tourist islands (Port Blair, Havelock, Neil, North Bay). Carry a valid photo ID; rules can change.
Estimated Costs
- Semi-submarine ticket (Port Blair – North Bay):
- Adults: Approx. INR 1,800–3,000 per person (operator/season dependent).
- Children: Approx. INR 1,200–2,000 (often age/height-based).
- Boat transfers to/from North Bay: Often bundled; if separate, budget INR 500–1,000 per person.
- Photos/videos (optional): INR 300–800 if offered on board.
- Inter-island ferry (one way): INR 900–2,500 per person depending on vessel/class.
- Daily travel budget (excluding flights): INR 3,000–8,000+ per person, based on activity choices and meals.
Note: Prices fluctuate by season, operator, and availability; confirm inclusions (transfers, guide, taxes) before booking.
Accommodation Options
Port Blair
- Budget (INR 1,200–2,500): Guesthouses around Aberdeen Bazaar/Delanipur; basic amenities, central location.
- Mid-range (INR 3,000–7,000): Hotels near Marine Hill, white-sand themed boutiques with sea views.
- Upscale (INR 8,000–18,000+): Waterfront properties with on-site dining and tour desks.
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Beach resorts (INR 4,000–15,000+): Concentrated around Govind Nagar/Beach No. 5 and Vijay Nagar; good for combining beach days with reef trips.
- Eco-stays (INR 3,000–8,000): Cottage-style stays under palms; book early in peak season.
Tip: Book your semi-submarine slot first in high season (Dec–Feb), then align hotel location and ferry timings.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Try: Grilled reef fish, prawn curry, coconut-based seafood, crab masala; veg-friendly thalis are widely available.
- Port Blair picks: Seafood shacks near the waterfront; vegetarian kitchens around Aberdeen Bazaar.
- Havelock flavors: Beach cafés offering fresh catch, smoothies, and bakery treats.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar (Port Blair): Spices, coconut crafts, hats, light cotton wear.
- Sagarika Government Emporium: Ethically sourced handicrafts at fair prices.
- Important: Do not buy coral, shells, or turtle products—these are protected.
Culture & Etiquette
- Respect no-go zones protecting indigenous tribes; photography of tribes is illegal.
- Carry back all plastics; many beaches aim for low-waste practices.
- Dress modestly in towns and religious places; beachwear is fine on beaches/boats.
Nearby Attractions
From Port Blair
- Cellular Jail National Memorial: Colonial-era history; evening sound-and-light show.
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): Ruins wrapped in banyan roots; short boat ride.
- North Bay Island: Also the semi-submarine zone; snorkeling, sea walking.
- Chidiya Tapu: Lush forest and sunset views.
- Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (seasonal): Crystal-clear snorkeling in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
From Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Iconic sunset sands.
- Elephant Beach: Water sports, reef activities.
- Kalapathar Beach: Quiet coastline for sunrise strolls.
From Neil (Shaheed Dweep)
- Natural Bridge: Unique rock formation; best at low tide.
- Laxmanpur and Bharatpur Beaches: Snorkeling and relaxed swims.
Practical Tips
- Book ahead in peak months (Dec–Feb, holidays); morning slots are popular.
- Motion sensitivity: Take seasickness tablets 30–60 minutes prior if needed.
- What to wear: Light clothing, a light jacket for AC cabins, non-slip footwear.
- Accessibility: Access typically involves steps into the lower viewing cabin; check with the operator for mobility accommodations.
- Safety: Listen to crew briefings; keep hands away from windows and avoid leaning on panes.
- Eco-care: No littering; do not touch or feed marine life during combined activities.
- Weather buffer: Keep flexibility for possible reschedules due to sea conditions.
Traveler-Specific Advice
Families with Kids
- Confirm child fares and minimum age policies; carry snacks and water.
- Seat kids near windows and brief them about not tapping glass excessively.
Honeymooners & Couples
- Pick mid-morning slots for brighter colors and better photos.
- Combine with a sunset at Radhanagar Beach (Havelock) or Chidiya Tapu (Port Blair) for a romantic day.
Friends & Groups
- Opt for package combos (semi-sub + snorkeling/sea walk) for value and logistics ease.
- If you have multiple cameras, share one side for varied angles and fewer reflections.
FAQs
Q: What exactly is a semi-submarine ride in Andaman?
A: It’s a boat with an underwater viewing cabin. You sit below the waterline in an air-conditioned space with wide windows to watch corals and fish without entering the sea.
Q: Do I need to know swimming for this activity?
A: No. It’s ideal for non-swimmers, seniors, and young children as you remain inside the vessel throughout.
Q: How long does the semi-submarine experience take?
A: The reef-viewing segment usually lasts 25–60 minutes. Including jetty transfers and briefings, plan for 1–2 hours.
Q: Is it safe during monsoon?
A: Trips are weather-dependent. Operators may cancel or reschedule during rough seas or heavy rain for safety and visibility reasons.
Q: Can I take photos and videos?
A: Yes, personal cameras and phones are typically allowed. Turn off the flash to minimize reflections on the viewing windows.
Conclusion
Semi-submarine rides in the Andamans open a vivid, underwater panorama without the need to swim—making reef life accessible to every traveler. With the best conditions from October to May, easy access via Port Blair and Havelock, and family-friendly onboard comfort, this experience pairs beautifully with nearby beaches, light historical sightseeing, and local cuisine. Plan around weather, book morning slots when possible, and explore responsibly to keep Andaman’s reefs thriving.
