Adventurous water sports, alluring coral reefs, and panoramic landscapes, North Bay Island has everything that makes it a popular destination among the travel buffs. Whether you are a nature buff, a true water sports lover or a beach baby, this island has something for everyone. Spend your day enjoying the enthralling water sports of Andaman such as jet skiing, scuba diving, and snorkelling or soak in the charm of its captivating beaches, there are numerous ways to keep yourself engaged during your trip to Andaman.
Explore the stunning beauty of Andaman Nicobar Islands with our hassle-free Andaman Nicobar tour package, promising an unforgettable island adventure.
There are various companies which offer dives and a chance to get stunning photographs of the underwater world. Apart from its popular underwater corals, this island serves you with some really exciting boat ride trips too. So, if you are not a big fan of underwater sports, you still have a way to explore this enticing island. Certainly, the best way to take a tour of North Bay Island is through the boat ride. This glass bottom boat tour offers you ample opportunities to explore the marine world, flora, and reefs. Sea walking is another fun activity that introduces you to the vibrant world of the sea.
Situated to the north of Port Blair at a distance of 42.4 km, this island is an ideal option for the hurried tourists. The beach also houses a lighthouse which offers a spectacular view of Port Blair skyline and magnificent Ross Island. A trip to this impeccable island will cost you around INR 500 and the guide will introduce you to its rich history. A visit to this island will consume your half day. Visitors should get ready at Phoenix Bay Jetty before 9:00 AM. The boat which begins from this complex can accommodate around 200 people. It is also advisable to keep some snacks and beverages along with you.
Considered an epitome of natural splendour, it is one of those numerous places where one can enjoy a combination of peace and thrill. The experience of being at this place will gift you with a bundle of memories. While its water sports will set your adrenaline pumping, you can also choose this destination to find an escape from the boisterous city crowd. Yes, North Bay Island is truly a hub of natural beauty and if you are a nature lover, you will be in awe of this place. As soon as you enter this island, you will find numerous scuba shops offering snorkelling and scuba diving.
You can also avail glass bottom rides to get a close view of beautiful coral reefs. One must-do activity on this island is a sea walk. This is because this island flaunts varieties of reefs and fishes which can’t be found in most of the islands. The sea walk platoon is located nearby the island and their team will take you from the island to platoon. Sea walking is done by wearing an oxygen helmet so that you can breathe easy.
However, if you have any kind of ear problem, it is advisable to refrain from this activity. So, if a long weekend is around the corner and you want to add an offbeat destination in your travel diary, you certainly should know more about the captivating North Bay Island.
Planning a trip to Andaman? Check out these must-do activities in Andaman Islands to make your trip memorable.
How To Reach North Bay Island From Port Blair
The trip kick starts from Andaman water sports complex from where you travel in a boat to North Bay Island. Port Blair is around 42.4 Km away from North Bay Island and the journey from Port Blair to North Bay Island lasts for 75-minutes and costs INR 500 per person. There are no charges on still and video cameras. The boat can easily accommodate 200 people and is always equipped with life rings and life jackets. In this journey, you will also pass through the magnificent Ross Island which is popular for the ruins of ancient settlements. North Bay Island is a 40-minute ride from Ross Island. After exploring Ross Island, the boat will proceed to the alluring North Bay Island which is the same place that is printed behind the 20 rupee note. From scuba diving and snorkelling to glass boat riding, there is an endless list of activities that one might indulge in.
Click here to check out the best cruise packages in Andaman for your next trip.
Best Time To Visit
Though Andaman’s is considered to be a year-round tourist destination, certain months are considered to be more favourable than the others on this land. If you are planning a trip to North Bay Island, it is advisable to plan it in between October and June. This duration is not only ideal for sightseeing, but it also offers humongous opportunities to engage in water sports. North Bay Island witnesses very minimum temperature fluctuations and boasts a moderate tropical climate throughout the year. However, if you want to explore the place keenly without any hassle, it is better to avoid the monsoon season.
The island remains comparatively dull during this time as it sees less number of travellers. Summers of North Bay Island is warm and pleasant. This is also an ideal time for relishing the water sports activities. With zero rainfall, it remains a perfect time for dives and sightseeing. During the summers, the temperature falls in the range of 25 degree Celsius to 32 degree Celsius. North Bay Island doesn’t have chilly winters as the temperature during this season ranges between 20 degree Celsius to 30 degrees.
So, if you are planning a honeymoon trip to Andaman during winters, North Bay Island is one of the most recommended destinations to add in your Andaman Honeymoon Package.
Check out the best hotels for a honeymoon in Andaman which will offer you a wonderful stay during your trip.
Other Essential Info About North Bay Island
1. Mobile Connectivity
This is a major concern for travellers visiting North Bay Island. On this island, one has to face a lot of network issues. Hence, be careful about the sim card you are carrying along with you. The three networks which work on a basic level include Vodafone, BSNL, and Airtel. Though, you might witness a lot many call drop issues with Vodafone. Hence, considering the offbeat location of the island, it is advisable to be with your tour operator. In addition to this, don’t forget to carry some extra sim cards along with you which can be used during the time of emergency.
2. Medical Facilities
Though North Bay Island doesn’t have any advanced medical facilities due to its remote location and low population, it still has some basic medical amenities for the convenience of visitors. Hence, on your trip to North Bay Island, do take care of the normal precautions related to food and sanitation. For availing high-quality health services, one needs to travel to the capital city of Port Blair. Port Blair city has a number of government hospitals which levies nominal charges on the patients. Govind Ballabh Pant Hospital is one of the most renowned hospitals in Port Blair. It is a 466 bedded hospital which provides specialized services in dermatology, General Medicine, Gynaecology, and ENT.
3. Timings To Visit
Tourist season in this island starts from November and continues till mid-May. December to March is considered as a peak season for the vacationers. June to August is a duration when the North Bay Island witnesses monsoon and hence, it is an offseason. The beach remains open to the public throughout the week from 12:00 AM to 12:00 PM. If you are planning a family trip or honeymoon in North Bay Island, it is advisable to choose winter season for your journey. This is because, during the winter months, you can explore the island without any hurdle, as well as, engage in enthralling water sports.
4. Places To Eat Near North Bay Island
Though there is a very limited number of restaurants in North Bay Island, they will serve you the real taste of Andaman. From crabs, and shrimps to lobster and fish, the seafood in these restaurants will certainly make you drool and leave you craving for more. Apart from the restaurants, you can also find some seaside food stalls featuring south Indian and North Indian dishes, which make it one of the best places to visit in Andaman.
Things to Do in North Bay Island
Snorkelling
Apart from the sandy beaches and serene environment, North Bay Island is also known for its thrilling water sports. Ne of the most sought-after water sports activity on this island is snorkelling. Snorkelling is equipped with a snorkel, fins, and mask. If you have always been intrigued by the marine life, this will be a golden opportunity for you to explore the exotic sea animals and coral reefs. Even if you are a non-swimmer, you can enjoy this sport by using life jackets and taking guidance from local guides. You can find several tour operators here who offer snorkelling gear, as well as, basic snorkelling courses. Snorkelling in Andaman is a must try experience on your Andaman trip and this island allows you to have the best experience.
Price: The cost of snorkelling is INR 700 including a glass bottom boat ride.
Scuba Diving
Scuba Diving at North Bay Island is certainly a lifetime experience giving any adventurer the best scuba diving experience in Andaman. North Bay Island flaunts abundant coral reserves and scuba diving is just one more activity which gives you a sneak peek into the rich aquatic life of the island. In North Bay Island, scuba diving is conducted in a well protected and safe environment where the trained dive masters keep a close watch on you. You need not be a trained swimmer to enjoy this water sport. Apart from the thrill of underwater dive, visitors are also provided with a personal video after the dive ends.
Price: Scuba Diving at the North Bay Island costs around INR 3500 to INR 5000 per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I get from Port Blair to North Bay?
Port Blair is around 42.4 km away from North Bay Island and the distance between these two places can be covered by a boat journey. The journey begins from Andaman water sports complex and lasts for 1.5 hours.
Check out the list of places to visit in Portblair.
2. At what time I can experience Scuba Diving at North Bay Island?
The time to report for scuba diving at the North Bay Island is around 8:00 AM and when you reach there, you are allotted the time slot. The scuba diving will continue for 30 minutes and with some preliminary training, it will take around 2 hours.
3. What activities are available in North Bay Island?
From sea walking, and scuba diving to snorkelling and glass boat ride, there is a large number of activities that one can enjoy at this island. Sea walking is the most popular activity that you can relish here. If you don’t want to indulge in water sports, you can simply spend some peaceful time at the beach and soak in the charm of its serenity.
4. How far is North Bay Island situated from Port Blair?
North Bay Island is situated at a distance of 42 km from Port Blair. This distance can be covered in around 1.5 hours through a boat ride. On your way from Port Blair to North Bay Island, you will also get to visit the impeccable Ross Island.
5. How long can we stay at North Bay Island?
Though one can stay for as much time as they want in this enticing land, you can explore the entire island in just one day. In the spare time, you can visit nearby places such as Ross Island and Port Blair, which are equally known for their natural splendour and adventure sports.
6. How do I get to North Bay Island?
The journey for North Bay Island begins from Andaman water sports complex in Port Blair and from here it will take around 1.5 hours to reach North Bay Island via a boat journey.
7. Is there any entry fee for visiting North Bay Island?
There is no entry fee for visiting North Bay Island. Hence, you can explore this magnificent place without going too heavy on your pocket.
8. Is North Bay Island a coral island?
Yes, North Bay Island is a coral island situated in the northern side of Port Blair. This island offers several exciting water sports activities such as snorkelling, speedboat rides, scuba diving, and sea walking. By trying these activities, one can get to see the vibrant corals, rich vegetation, and colourful fishes of this place.
9. What should I carry while going to North Bay Island?
From a good camera, basic identity proofs, and necessary medications to loose fitting clothes and cash amount, there are several things which must be carried on the North Bay Island trip. You must also carry skin protective sunscreen lotions along with you.
10. Is there any accommodation available in North Bay Island?
From hotels and resorts to guesthouses, there are several accommodations available in the North Bay Island and you can choose a resort that suits your budget. However, since North Bay Island sees a huge influx of travellers throughout the year, it is advisable to book your room.
Here is the travel guide to Andaman which you must check out before you start planning your trip.
