Glass Bottom Boat
Glass bottom boat rides in the Andaman Islands offer a unique way to experience the vibrant underwater world without getting wet. This activity is perfect for families, non-swimmers, and those who prefer to stay dry while exploring the marine life and coral reefs. Here’s a guide to help you plan your glass bottom boat adventure in the Andaman Islands.
Best Time to Visit
- November to April: The seas are calm, and the visibility is excellent, making it the ideal time for glass bottom boat rides.
- May to October: Monsoon season may bring rough seas and reduced visibility, but rides are still available depending on weather conditions.
Popular Spots for Glass Bottom Boat Rides
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North Bay Island:
- Known for its clear waters and rich marine life, North Bay is a popular spot for glass bottom boat rides. You can see a variety of corals and colorful fish.
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Jolly Buoy Island:
- Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island offers stunning coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility.
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Red Skin Island:
- Also located in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Red Skin Island is another great spot for glass bottom boat rides. It’s known for its diverse marine ecosystem.
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Havelock Island:
- Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach on Havelock Island offer glass bottom boat rides. These spots are famous for their beautiful coral gardens and vibrant marine life.
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Neil Island:
- Bharatpur Beach on Neil Island is ideal for glass bottom boat rides. The shallow waters and rich coral reefs make it a perfect location for viewing underwater life.
Tour Operators and Services
- Andaman Dolphin Glass Bottom Boat (Port Blair and North Bay Island): Offers rides on a semi-submarine boat, providing an immersive underwater viewing experience.
- Sea Link Adventures (Havelock Island): Provides glass bottom boat tours along with other water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Andaman Boat House (Port Blair): Offers glass bottom boat rides to various locations including Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island.
What to Expect
- Marine Life: You can expect to see a variety of marine creatures including clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish, and sometimes even turtles.
- Coral Reefs: The Andaman Islands are home to vibrant coral reefs with various species of hard and soft corals.
- Comfort: Glass bottom boats typically have comfortable seating and clear viewing panels in the floor, allowing you to see underwater without getting wet.
Tips for Enjoying Glass Bottom Boat Rides
- Timing: Morning rides often provide the best visibility as the waters are calmer and clearer.
- Weather Check: Ensure the weather is suitable for a boat ride to avoid rough seas and poor visibility.
- Safety: Always wear life jackets provided by the tour operators.
- Booking: It’s advisable to book your rides in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Getting There
- Flights: The main entry point to the Andaman Islands is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.
- Ferries: Regular ferry services connect Port Blair with Havelock Island, Neil Island, and other major islands.
Accommodation
- Luxury: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa (Havelock Island), SeaShell (Havelock and Neil Island)
- Mid-Range: Symphony Palms Beach Resort (Havelock Island), Summer Sands Beach Resort (Neil Island)
- Budget: Emerald Gecko (Havelock Island), Coconhuts Beach Resort (Neil Island)
Glass bottom boat rides offer a fantastic way to experience the underwater beauty of the Andaman Islands in a safe and comfortable manner. Whether you’re traveling with family, are a non-swimmer, or simply prefer staying dry, this activity provides a window into the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs of the region.
