Explore North Bay Island – The Best Spot for Snorkeling & Coral Watching in Andaman

Jul 30, 2025 | Blogs

Have you ever watched the ocean shimmer like liquid sapphire?

Just off the coast of Port Blair, where sunlight dances on teal-blue waves, lies a place that feels more like a dream than a destination — North Bay Island. The first time I saw its turquoise glow from the ferry deck, I didn’t just feel excited — I felt pulled toward something magical. If you’ve ever imagined walking under the sea, watching coral gardens bloom beneath your feet, or feeling your worries dissolve into the tides, then this island is waiting for you.

Come with me on a personal journey through North Bay Island, Andaman — where underwater adventures, quiet joys, and childhood-like wonder await.

How One Quiet Island Stole My Heart

North Bay Island isn’t loud. It doesn’t try to impress. But somehow, it does.

The coral reef is shallow, alive, and welcoming. Even as someone who didn’t know how to swim, I was able to snorkel in North Bay with a guide’s help. And what I saw beneath the water stayed with me long after I surfaced.

Scuba diver exploring vibrant coral reef and marine life

“As soon as I dipped my face in, a school of yellow-striped fish darted past. The world above vanished. I was floating in silence, surrounded by color and light.”

That moment is why people come here. That feeling is why they come back.

Where Is North Bay Island?

A short boat ride from North Bay Port Blair, this island is just 30 minutes away but feels like a world apart. The famous lighthouse (yes, the one on our ₹20 note!) welcomes you to a land where the sea speaks.

₹20 note held against real-life backdrop of beach scenery

Want to explore nearby hidden gems too? Check our Nearby Islands from Port Blair guide.

How I Reached North Bay Island

We booked a morning ferry from Aberdeen Jetty. The boat ride was breezy, with sea spray on our faces and excitement in our hearts. Booking North Bay boat tickets was easy through our travel planner.

If you’d like to skip the queues and planning stress, try our Book North Bay Island Tour.

The Water Activities That Took My Breath Away

Here’s the thing about water activities in North Bay — they aren’t just about thrill. They’re about discovering a whole other world. And even if you’re scared, there’s something for everyone.

Snorkeling in North Bay

This was my first time snorkeling. I was nervous. But the moment my face hit the water, all fear faded.

“Tiny fish swam so close I could feel the ripple as they moved. The coral reef in North Bay looked like a living painting.”

I didn’t want it to end.

Want tips? Read our Snorkeling in North Bay Island guide.

Glass-Bottom Boat Ride

Tourists viewing marine life through a glass bottom boat

My parents didn’t want to snorkel, so we took this together. Watching them smile as fish passed below our feet was something I’ll always remember.

Semi-Submarine Ride

Half-submerged in the sea, it felt like we were gliding inside an aquarium. Kids onboard couldn’t stop squealing. I couldn’t either.

Sea Walking

Imagine standing on the ocean floor. No swimming, just walking among fish. My partner said it was like being on another planet — silent, surreal, peaceful.

Parasailing & Jet Skiing

We ended the day flying over the water, hand in hand. North Bay Island Andaman gave us stories we still tell.

Need help planning? Check our Water Adventure Tour from Port Blair.

Best Time to Visit North Bay Island

We went in November. The skies were clear, the sea calm, and visibility perfect. The ideal time is October to May. Avoid the monsoon if you can — waves tend to cancel the fun.

What I Packed — And What I Forgot

  • Swimsuit ✓
  • Waterproof pouch ❌ (regret!)
  • Sunscreen ✓
  • Sunglasses ✓
  • Change of clothes ✓

Who Should Go to North Bay?

Young couple holding hands while walking on white sandy beach

Everyone. Really.

  • Couples like us looking for something thrilling and shared
  • Families with kids or elders (glass boats are perfect!)
  • Solo travelers chasing coral dreams
  • Friends out to make wild memories

If you’re in Port Blair, you’d be missing out not to go.

Respect the Sea — My Promise

What makes North Bay Island magical is also what makes it delicate. Let’s not harm what we love:

  • Don’t touch corals
  • Don’t litter
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen
  • Follow your guide’s lead

The fish, the reefs, and the sea deserve our respect.

Other Spots We Explored Nearby

Pair your North Bay adventure tour with:

  • Ross Island for history
  • Viper Island for colonial ruins
  • Chidiya Tapu for sunsets you’ll never forget

Need more ideas? Our Top Water Sports in Andaman blog has you covered.

Final Thoughts: A Day That Changed Me

“We went to North Bay Island looking for fun. We came back with wonder.”

In just one morning, we swam with fish, laughed under the sun, and felt more alive than we had in weeks. That’s what North Bay Island Andaman does. It doesn’t just show you the sea — it reminds you why you love life.

So if you’re planning a trip to Port Blair, don’t overthink it. Go. Dive. Float. Smile. Let AndamanLove  take care of the details, and let North Bay Island take care of your soul.

Popular Packages