Islands of Andaman & Nicobar | India's Emerald Islands

Fri 22-08-2025 09:38

Fri 11-09-2026 17:12

North Bay Island

Dive into the Coral Paradise - Overview

North Bay Island: Dive into the Coral Paradise

North Bay Island, popularly known as Coral Island, is a small coral-fringed island located about 5 km from Sri Vijaya Puram. A short boat ride from the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Sri Vijaya Puram, it is one of the Andaman Islands' most popular destinations for coral viewing, water sports activities, and its iconic Lighthouse.

History of North Bay Island

During the British colonial period, North Bay Island served as an important navigational point for vessels approaching Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair).
Its iconic lighthouse, built to guide ships safely through the surrounding waters, later gained nationwide recognition after appearing on the old Indian Rs. 20 currency note.
Today, the island has evolved into one of South Andaman's most popular day-trip destinations, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and a wide range of water sports activities and coral-viewing experiences.

Island Location

Open Map

Emergency Numbers

Police	100
Fire	101
Ambulance	108
Tourist Helpline	1363
Coast Guard	1554

How To Reach

There are two convenient ways to reach North Bay Island from Sri Vijaya Puram — either directly by ferry or by combining a short road journey with a ferry ride.

By Ferry ⛴️

Take a speedboat or ferry from Rajiv Gandhi Watersports Complex, Aberdeen Jetty, Sri Vijaya Puram.
The journey takes 15–20 minutes.
Boats operate between 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM and return between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Tickets can be purchased from private boat operators' counters at Aberdeen Jetty for round-trip journeys, often combined with a day trip package to North Bay and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.

By Road + Ferry 🚗⛴️

Travel to Chatham Jetty and board the Government ferry to Bambooflat Jetty.
Ferries operate daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM at intervals of approx. 30 minutes, with a ferry ride of 10–15 minutes.
From Bambooflat Jetty, drive around 8 km (15–20 minutes) along the scenic coastal road to North Bay Beach.

No nearby destinations found.

No experiences found nearby.

Travel Information

When to Visit

Best Season (October to June)

Peak season brings warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, calm sea conditions, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for water sports and sightseeing with temperatures of about 25°C–32°C.

Monsoon (June to September)

Rough seas can disrupt boat schedules and reduce underwater visibility.

Food and Stay

North Bay Island is a day trip destination only. Visitors typically stay in Sri Vijaya Puram, which offers a wide range of hotels, resorts, and guest houses. On the island, only basic snack stalls, refreshments, and shaded seating are available.

Water Sports and Activity Charges

Entry to North Bay Island is free, while water sports activities are priced separately by authorised operators. Activity tickets can be purchased at the water sports counters on the island or booked through registered tour operators available on the Andaman & Nicobar Tourism Website.

All activities include certified instructors and safety equipment, and no swimming skills are required for sea walking, glass-bottom boat rides, or beginner scuba diving.

Entry Permits and Visitor Regulations

Indian Nationals

A valid government-issued ID is recommended when booking boat tickets and water sports activities.

Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals must carry a valid Passport, Indian Visa (including e-Visa), and identification documents during the visit.

Things to Remember Before Planning Your Visit

Book Boat Tickets Early: Speed boats to North Bay Island operate on early morning departures from Aberdeen Jetty (Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex). During the peak tourist season, arrive early or book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred departure.
Visit Early for the Best Underwater Experience: Plan your visit between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, when the sea is generally calmer and underwater visibility is at its best, offering ideal conditions for snorkelling, scuba diving, and sea walking before boat traffic increases.