Sea Walk
Sea walking in the Andaman Islands is a unique underwater adventure that allows you to walk on the ocean floor and experience marine life up close without needing to swim or dive. Here’s a guide to help you plan your sea walking experience in the Andaman Islands.
Best Time to Visit
- November to April: The best period for sea walking, with calm seas and excellent visibility.
- May to October: Monsoon season can bring rough seas and poor visibility, but sea walks are still possible depending on weather conditions.
Popular Sea Walking Spots
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North Bay Island:
- One of the most popular locations for sea walking, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. The site offers a fantastic opportunity to walk amongst corals and colorful fish.
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Elephant Beach (Havelock Island):
- Another prime spot for sea walking, Elephant Beach is famous for its rich coral reefs and diverse marine creatures. It's accessible and offers a safe environment for sea walking.
Tour Operators and Services
- Sea Link Adventures: Offers sea walking experiences at North Bay Island and Elephant Beach. They provide all necessary equipment and professional guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Andaman Island Travels: Specializes in sea walking tours, providing comprehensive packages that include transport, equipment, and guided tours.
- Scuba Lov: Based in Havelock Island, this operator offers sea walking at Elephant Beach along with other water activities.
What to Expect
- Helmet: You’ll wear a special helmet that allows you to breathe normally underwater. The helmet is connected to an oxygen supply on the surface.
- Depth: Sea walks usually take place at a depth of 7-10 meters (23-33 feet).
- Duration: The actual sea walk typically lasts around 20-30 minutes.
- Marine Life: Expect to see a variety of colorful fish, corals, and other marine creatures. Guides often feed the fish to attract them closer, enhancing the experience.
- Safety: Professional guides accompany you throughout the walk, ensuring your safety and providing instructions.
Tips for Sea Walking
- Health: Ensure you are in good health and do not have any respiratory or heart conditions. Sea walking is generally safe, but it’s best to check with your doctor if you have any concerns.
- Comfort: Wear comfortable swimwear. The helmet will keep your head dry, so you don’t need to worry about your hair getting wet.
- Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to the briefing and follow the guide’s instructions during the walk.
- Relax: Stay calm and enjoy the experience. The helmet provides a continuous supply of air, allowing you to breathe normally.
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 North Bay Island and Havelock Island.
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)
Sea walking in the Andaman Islands offers a memorable and accessible way to explore the underwater world, making it a perfect activity for non-swimmers and families. The experience of walking on the ocean floor surrounded by marine life and vibrant corals is truly unforgettable.
