๐ โDay Five was where history whispered through ruins, coral reefs came alive beneath the sea, and adventure danced on ocean waves.โ
๐ Day 5 Begins โ A Calm Morning Before Big Adventures
Day five of our Andaman journey unfolded with excitement in the air and a promise of ocean adventures ahead. Unlike the previous days of island hopping, todayโs plan was relaxed yet thrilling โ Ross Island (British Capital) and North Bay Island, both located close to Port Blair. With no long travel time involved, there was no rush, only anticipation.
๐ด Todayโs Highlights Ahead
๐ฅ๏ธ Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
๐๏ธ Ross Island โ The British Capital
๐ North Bay Island โ Coral & Water Adventures
โ๏ธ Morning at Port Blair โ Slow, Fresh & Peaceful
We woke up around 6:30 AM, greeted by chirping birds and soft morning light filtering through the windows. Even on 28th December, the weather felt warm and bright โ a reminder that Andaman winters are gentle and sunny.
After brushing up, at 7:00 AM, the hotel served bed tea with biscuits, a simple comfort we truly enjoyed. Todayโs breakfast was planned outside, so we freshened up completely and got ready for the day.
๐ Ready to Roll โ Leaving the Hotel
๐ฃ Departure Time:
Around 8:30 AM๐ Vehicle: 9-seater Innova
By 8:15 AM, we were fully ready. As the car was slightly delayed, we used the time well โ clicking photos in front of our hotel and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Travel moments like these often-become unplanned memories.
Finally, at 8:40 AM, we began our journey. Along with us, the same family we met earlier also joined todayโs tour โ making the group warm, familiar, and cheerful.
๐ฝ๏ธ Breakfast Stop โ Island Cafรฉ Delight
On the way, we stopped at Andaman Kartikโs own restaurant โ Island Cafรฉ, where breakfast was already arranged.
๐ฅ Breakfast Menu
๐ Chole Bhatura
๐ณ Omelette
๐ฅ Lassi
It was a satisfying and energetic breakfast. Titli happily enjoyed everything except the lassi โ curd isnโt her favourite ๐.
๐ Packed Lunch Bonus
๐ Towards the Adventure Hub
With full stomachs and high spirits, we moved towards our first destination โ
๐ค Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Port Blair
๐ Located near Marina Park
โฐ Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
This place is the gateway to Andamanโs Ocean adventures and the starting point for boats heading to Ross Island and North Bay Island.
The day had officially begun โ calm on the surface, but full of excitement underneath.
๐ด Port Blair โ The Soul of the Andaman Islands
Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is not just an administrative center โ it is the heart of island life, where history, culture, nature, and simplicity blend effortlessly. Life here feels calm and unhurried, deeply connected to the sea and surrounding forests, yet gently aligned with the modern world.
The atmosphere is peaceful, far removed from the chaos and noise of mainland cities. Port Blair doesnโt try to impress you loudly โ it slowly wins your heart.
๐ฆ๏ธ Climate & Weather โ Nature Sets the Pace
Port Blair enjoys a tropical coastal climate throughout the year, shaped by the sea.
โ๏ธ Summer (March to May)
Warm and slightly humid, with temperatures ranging between 24ยฐC to 32ยฐC. Ideal for water sports and island activities.
๐ง๏ธ Monsoon (June to September)
Heavy rainfall and rough seas dominate this season. Ferry services and tourism slow down significantly.
โ๏ธ Winter (October to February)
The best time to visit Andaman. Pleasant weather, clear skies, and temperatures between 20ยฐC to 28ยฐC make exploration comfortable. Though humidity remains, the sea breeze keeps everything refreshing.
๐ค People & Lifestyle โ Simple, Kind, Grounded
The people of Port Blair are soft-spoken, helpful, and welcoming. Their lives move slowly, guided by nature rather than schedules. There is patience in their behavior, honesty in their work, and contentment in their lifestyle.
Here, people value peace over speed and simplicity over excess.
๐ Religious Harmony โ Unity in Diversity
Port Blair reflects Indiaโs diversity beautifully.
๐๏ธ Hindu temples
๐ Mosques
โช Churches
๐ชฏ Gurudwaras
All exist close to each other, symbolizing mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Religious harmony is not just visible โ it is lived daily.
๐ฃ๏ธ Languages โ A Mini India
Port Blair feels like a small version of India.
๐จ๏ธ Hindi โ Most commonly spoken
๐จ๏ธ Bengali โ Widely used
๐จ๏ธ Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam โ Common
๐จ๏ธ English โ Well understood in tourist areas
Communication is easy, warm, and inclusive.
๐ผ Livelihood & Economy โ Driven by the Sea
Tourism is the backbone of Port Blairโs economy.
๐จ Hotels & resorts
๐คฟ Scuba diving & water sports centers
๐ Taxis, autos & ferries
๐งญ Tour guides & operators
Fishing remains a traditional livelihood, while small businesses โ souvenir shops, coconut vendors, handicraft stores, and food stalls โ support daily life.
A significant number of residents also work in government services, including administration, education, healthcare, navy, coast guard, and port operations.
๐ Education & Growth โ Rooted Yet Progressive
Education in Port Blair is well developed by island standards.
๐ซ Good schools and colleges
๐ Technical & marine studies institutes
โ๏ธ Many students pursue higher education on the mainland
Despite geographical isolation, learning and growth continue steadily.
๐ Daily Life โ Slow, Disciplined & Peaceful
Life in Port Blair follows natureโs rhythm.
๐
Early mornings
โ Slow afternoons
๐ Quiet evenings with tea and conversation
๐ Calm, silent nights
There is no loud nightlife, no rush. Evenings are often spent walking near the sea or sitting quietly, watching life unfold.
๐ฝ๏ธ Food habits
are simple and healthy โ rice, fish, coconut, vegetables, and fresh seafood dominate the plate. Bengali, South Indian, and North Indian cuisines are easily available.๐ Island Mentality โ Living with Nature
The people of Port Blair deeply respect the sea, forests, and wildlife. They live with fewer expectations but greater satisfaction. Tourism has taught them hospitality and cultural understanding, but nature has taught them patience, strength, and balance.
โจ A Thought to Carry Forward
Port Blair is not just a destination โ it is a way of life.
It teaches you how to slow down, breathe freely, smile honestly, and live close to nature.
๐ Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex โ The Adventure Gateway of Port Blair
Located right beside Marina Park, facing the calm waters of the Andaman Sea, the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex (RGWSC) is the main starting point for sea adventures in Port Blair. This is not just a water sports hub โ it is the lifeline for island hopping, connecting travellers to Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep) and North Bay Island, along with offering a wide range of thrilling water activities.
The complex comes alive every morning with excitement, queues of travellers, life jackets stacked neatly, speedboats lined up at the jetty, and the sea shimmering under the tropical sun.
๐ Location & Surroundings
๐ Situated at Marina Park, Port Blair
๐ Just 2โ3 km from most city hotels
๐ Walking distance from Aberdeen Bazaar
๐ Overlooks the open sea with views of boats, yachts, and distant islands
The location itself feels refreshing โ a mix of sea breeze, palm-lined walkways, and the sound of waves hitting the jetty.
โฐ Timings & Entry Process
๐ Operational Time:
โณ 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Daily, weather permitting)
๐ชช Entry Procedure:
๐น Security check at the gate
๐น Identity verification
๐น Ticket counters inside the complex
๐น Boarding pass issued for boats & activities
Morning hours are always recommended as the sea remains calmer and activities run smoothly.
๐ค Gateway to Ross Island & North Bay Island
One of the most important roles of this complex is serving as the boarding point for island tours.
๐ฅ๏ธ Ross Island (British Capital)
๐ชง Historic ruins, colonial buildings, deer, peacocks
โณ Boat ride: ~15 minutes
๐๏ธ North Bay Island
๐คฟ Snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, jet ski
โณ Boat ride: ~30โ40 minutes
Most travellers choose a combined Ross + North Bay package, making this complex the heart of Day-tour planning in Port Blair.
๐ Water Activities Available
๐ Jet Ski
โ High-speed thrill over blue waters๐คฟ Snorkelling โ Coral viewing near North Bay
๐ช Parasailing โ Birdโs-eye view of the Andaman Sea
๐ถ Sea Walking โ Walk on the seabed with helmet
๐ถ Banana Boat Ride โ Group fun with splashes
๐ค Speed Boat Ride โ Short adrenaline rush
Each activity is conducted with trained instructors, safety gear, and briefing before participation.
๐ฐ Ticket Prices (Approximate)
๐๏ธ Entry to Complex:
Free๐ค Ross Island Boat: โน300 โ โน500
๐๏ธ North Bay Boat: โน700 โ โน1,000
๐คฟ Snorkelling: โน800 โ โน1,500
๐ถ Sea Walk: โน3,500 โ โน4,500
๐ Jet Ski: โน600 โ โน1,000
Prices may vary based on season, sea condition, and demand.
๐งณ Facilities Inside the Complex
๐ช Seating & waiting area
๐ป Clean washrooms
๐งด Life jackets & safety gear counters
๐ธ Photo & video service desks
๐ฅฅ Coconut water & small snack stalls
๐ซ Multiple ticket counters for easy booking
Everything is well-managed, organized, and tourist-friendly.
๐ค๏ธ Best Time to Visit
๐ October to May โ Best Sea visibility & calm water
โ
Morning hours โ Less crowd, smoother rides
๐ง๏ธ June to September โ Limited or cancelled activities due to monsoon
Always check weather & sea conditions before booking water sports.
๐ฑ Responsible Tourism Reminder
โป๏ธ Do not litter
๐ Do not touch corals or marine life
๐ฆบ Always follow safety instructions
๐ Respect the sea โ it gives beauty, not challenges
The marine ecosystem here is fragile and precious.
โจ Why Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex is Special
This place is where history meets adventure.
In one direction lies the British-era Ross Island, in another the coral-rich waters of North Bay, and beneath your feet the sea that carries stories, livelihoods, and life.
For travellers, this is not just a stop โ it is the starting line of unforgettable island experiences.
๐ Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex: Planning the Ocean Adventures
Around 9:40 AM, we reached the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex. Being peak season โ the best time to visit Andaman combined with Christmas holidays โ the complex was already buzzing with energy. Travelers stood in queues, speedboats rocked gently at the jetty, and the sea shimmered under the bright winter sun.
Our tour agent introduced us to the official travel guides inside the complex. They patiently explained all available activities, where each activity takes place, and the expected costs.
Todayโs plan was clear
๐ด Ross Island (British Capital)
๐ North Bay Island (Water Activities Hub)
At Ross Island, there are no water sports โ it is purely historical and scenic.
At North Bay Island, adventure truly begins.
๐คฟ Scuba Diving vs ๐ถ Sea Walk โ Which One to Choose?
This is the most confusing decision for first-time visitors, so hereโs a clear comparison from a travellerโs perspective.
๐คฟ Scuba Diving
๐ Done in deeper water
๐ Full immersion into coral reefs & marine life
๐ซ Requires breathing through oxygen equipment
๐ Depth usually 6โ12 meters
โณ Duration: 30โ45 minutes underwater
โ ๏ธ Not suitable for heart, lung, or anxiety issues
โจ Best for: Adventure lovers who want a real underwater experience
๐ถ Sea Walk
๐ Done in shallow sea bed
๐ช Special helmet with oxygen supply
๐ถ Walk naturally on the ocean floor
๐ Depth around 5โ7 meters
โณ Duration: 15โ20 minutes
โ
Very safe, even for beginners & seniors
โจ Best for: Non-swimmers, families, first-timers
๐ Short Advice
If you want adventure โ Scuba
If you want comfort + safety โ Sea Walk
๐ Activities Available After Returning to Port Blair
Once back at the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, more thrills await:
๐ค Banana Boat Ride
๐๏ธ Jet Ski
๐ค Speed Boat Ride
๐ถ Kayaking
๐ Stand-Up Paddleboard
๐ช Parasailing (for breathtaking aerial views)
โ ๏ธ Important Truth โ Booking Reality (Read This!)
Hereโs something many agents wonโt tell you clearly ๐
๐ซ You will be pressured to book all activities at the complex
๐ซ They scare you saying โLater tickets wonโt be availableโ
๐ซ Most of this is bogus
โ๏ธ You can book activities directly at Ross & North Bay Islands
โ๏ธ Prices are mostly fixed, but bargaining is possible
โ๏ธ Facilities vary slightly by operator, not by location
๐ If youโre confident, book on the island itself
๐ If you want peace of mind, book only selected activities beforehand
๐๏ธ Our Booking Decision (Honest Choice)
Since this was our first time, we decided to book only selected activities from here:
๐ค Mini Submarine (North Bay)
๐ฐ โน1,850 ร 4 persons
๐๏ธ Jet Ski (Port Blair)
๐ฐ โน600 (for Titli)
๐ค Speed Boat for Ross + North Bay
โ๏ธ Paid by our Andaman travel agent
Total boat capacity: 10 people
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Us (4) + another family (4) + manager + boat driver
๐ What to Carry Today
๐ฉณ Extra clothes
๐งด Towel
๐งด Sunblock
๐ฉด Slippers
๐ฑ Waterproof phone cover (recommended)
๐งญ Smart Traveler Tips
โฐ Reach early for better slots
๐ณ Carry both cash & UPI
๐ Keep phone fully charged
๐ Morning hours = best visibility & calm sea
This complex truly felt like the starting line of our ocean adventure โ where excitement, confusion, thrill, and planning all met at once. Boats waited patiently, the sea called silently, and we knew the day ahead would be unforgettable.
๐ฅ For a complete walkthrough of activities & prices, watch:
Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex โ Activities, Price & Timings – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 1
๐๏ธ Ross Island: Echoes of a Forgotten British Capital
Our first destination of the day was Ross Island, and we started this journey around 10:45 AM. Once the administrative headquarters of the British Empire in Andaman, this tiny island today stands as a silent storyteller โ where history whispers through ruins and nature listens patiently.
Before boarding, life jackets were distributed to everyone, and wearing them was mandatory. Soon, our speed boat sliced through the Andaman Sea, turning the short ride itself into a thrilling adventure.
The ferry route from Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex to Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island) passes through the calm bay waters near Port Blair.
โณ Travel Time: ~15โ20 minutes
๐ฐ Boat Cost: โน500 โ โน900 per person (round trip)
As the boat slowed near the shore, old colonial structures slowly appeared through dense greenery. Broken walls wrapped in giant tree roots, abandoned buildings standing quietly โ the island felt mystical, almost unreal.
๐๏ธ Walking Through Living History
Ross Island, now officially called Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, is a rare place where history, mystery, and nature merge seamlessly.
This island once housed:
๐ British officersโ bungalows
โช Churches
๐๏ธ Clubs & administrative offices
๐ฐ Printing press
โก Power house
๐ Bakery
Before Port Blair grew into todayโs capital, Ross Island was the heart of British power in Andaman.
Over time, nature reclaimed what humans left behind. Thick banyan roots wrapped around walls, moss covered staircases, and silence replaced colonial authority โ turning the island into an open-air museum.
โ๏ธ World War II & Tsunami โ The Islandโs Dark & Heroic Past
During World War II, Ross Island faced heavy destruction when the Japanese occupied Andaman for over three years. Bombings damaged major structures, including the Commissionerโs Bungalow. Those scars are still visible today.
A lesser-known but powerful truth โ
๐ During the 2004 Tsunami, Ross Island absorbed a large part of the wave impact, acting like a natural shield and reducing damage to Port Blair.
This island wasnโt just a victim of history โ it was also a silent protector.
๐ Exploring the Island Comfortably
After reaching the jetty, we hired battery-operated vehicles.
๐ฐ Battery Car Charge: โน100 per person
๐๏ธ Entry Fee: โน30โโน50 (often included with boat ticket)
Since Ross Island has uneven terrain and slopes, hiring the vehicle makes exploration comfortable โ especially for seniors.
๐ One vehicle accommodates 6 people including the driver
๐ฅ A foreign tourist joined us in the same car
Our driver also acted as a local guide, explaining each structure and historical point as we moved uphill.
๐๏ธ Eye Point & Lighthouse Experience
The battery car took us to Eye Point, located around 200 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views of:
๐ The vast Andaman Sea
๐๏ธ Port Blair city
๐ข Ships floating silently in the distance
From there, we walked down around 100 steps to reach the lighthouse. The view from here was stunning โ crystal-clear water, endless blue, and golden sunlight reflecting on the sea.
Baba faced some difficulty while climbing back, but the moment was worth every step.
๐ธ We captured plenty of photos and videos โ this was one of the most scenic spots of the island.
๐ฆ Where Nature Lives Freely
On our way back to the starting point, we encountered something beautiful โ
๐ฆ Deer roaming freely, completely unafraid of humans
๐ด Coconut trees towering above
๐ฟ Absolute calm, untouched and raw
Ross Island doesnโt allow any water activities โ and thatโs what preserves its soul.
๐ Ross Island Travel Guide (Quick Info)
๐ Location: 3 km east of Port Blair
๐ Best Time to Visit: Morning (less heat, clearer views)
โฐ Island Time Needed: 1 โ 1.5 hours
๐ซ Entry Fee: โน30โโน50
๐ค Boat Ride: โน500โโน900 (round trip)
๐ Battery Vehicle: โน100 per person
๐ญ One Line That Defines Ross Island
โRoss Island doesnโt speak โ it remembers, and in its silence, history breathes.โ
๐ฅ To experience this journey visually, watch:
Ross Island: The Forgotten British Capital โ History, Ticket & Exploration – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 2
๐ North Bay Island: Where Adventure Meets the Ocean
From Ross Island, we sailed onward to North Bay Island around 12:15 PM. As the speed boat cut across the blue waters, the sea shimmered under the afternoon sun, and excitement slowly replaced the calm of history we had just left behind. This was the island where adventure truly begins.
In just 10 minutes of ferry ride, we reached North Bay Island. While Ross Island reflects silence and stories of the past, North Bay is full of life, colour, and energy.
๐ Underwater Submarine Experience โ Marine Life Without Getting Wet
Our main activity here was the Underwater Mini Submarine ride, one of the most unique experiences in Andaman. Without entering the water, we were able to explore the underwater world comfortably.
As the submarine descended slowly, a completely different universe opened before us โ
๐ schools of colourful fish
๐ชธ coral gardens
๐ calm blue depths
The clarity of water made the experience even more magical. It felt peaceful, surreal, and unforgettable.
๐๏ธ Booking Activities โ A Practical Tip for Travelers
North Bay Island is slightly crowded, especially during peak season. The good part is โ
โ๏ธ You can book water activities directly on the island
โ๏ธ There is some scope for bargaining
โ๏ธ There are two different Mini Submarine vendors โ one larger than the other
โณ Important Logic to Know:
Each submarine trip takes around 1 hour.
If one submarine just leaves when you arrive, you may have to wait for the next slot.
Since we had already booked from Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, we had to wait almost 45 minutes.
If we had not pre-booked, we could have chosen the submarine that was available sooner.
๐ Tip: Booking directly on the island gives more flexibility in timing and choice.
๐คฟ Other Water Activities at North Bay Island
North Bay is one of the best islands for marine activities near Port Blair.
Available activities include:
๐คฟ Scuba Diving
๐ถโโ๏ธ Sea Walk
๐ Snorkelling
๐ค Glass Bottom Boat Ride
Since we had already done Scuba & Sea Walk at Havelock Island, we used our waiting time to explore the island, relax, and do photography.
๐ผ The Iconic Lighthouse โ A Piece of Indian History
One of the most recognizable landmarks here is the North Bay Lighthouse.
๐ This lighthouse once appeared on the back side of the old Indian โน20 currency note, making it a historic symbol for many Indians.
With the open sea behind it, the lighthouse creates a perfect frame for photography and quietly reminds visitors that North Bay is not just about thrill, but also heritage.
๐ค๏ธ Weather Reality of Andaman โ A Local Wisdom
As advised by our travel agent:
โIn Andaman, donโt wait for tomorrow. If the activity is available today โ do it.โ
Weather here changes quickly.
๐ง๏ธ Rough Sea or sudden wind can cancel activities anytime.
๐ Rule of Andaman Travel:
Do the activity when and where it is available, not where you planned to do it.
๐ฑ Lunch & Facilities on the Island
Though it was only 12:30 PM, we were not hungry yet.
But if needed:
๐ฝ๏ธ Seating arrangements are available
๐ง Drinking water is available
๐ฑ You can eat packed lunch comfortably here
๐ด Why North Bay Island Is Special
North Bay Island is a true hidden gem of the Andaman Islands.
๐ Crystal-clear water
๐ชธ Coral reefs starting close to the shore
๐คฟ Safe zones for beginners & non-swimmers
It is one of the most visited islands after Ross Island, and both are usually covered together in a single boat circuit.
๐ Perfect Contrast:
๐๏ธ Ross Island โ History & silence
๐ North Bay Island โ Life & movement
This contrast is what makes this combo tour so special.
๐ North Bay Island โ Quick Travel Guide
๐ Location: Near Port Blair
โฐ Time Needed: 1.5 โ 2 hours
๐ค Boat Ride: Included with Ross Island circuit
๐ซ Entry Fee: Included in boat ticket
๐คฟ Activity Cost (Approx):
โข Mini Submarine: โน1,800 โ โน2,000
โข Sea Walk: โน3,500 โ โน4,000
โข Scuba Diving: โน3,500 โ โน4,500
โข Snorkelling: โน500 โ โน800
๐ What to Carry:
Extra clothes, towel, sunscreen, slippers, waterproof pouch
๐ญ A Thought from North Bay Island
โWhere history sleeps, the ocean awakens โ and North Bay lets you touch both.โ
๐ฅ Watch the complete North Bay Island experience here:
Discovering the Hidden Gem of Andaman โ North Bay Island Adventure – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 3
๐ค Into the Blue: Mini Submarine (Semi-Submarine) Adventure at North Bay Island
Now it was time for one of the most awaited experiences of the day โ the Mini Submarine (Semi-Submarine) ride at North Bay Island. We stood patiently in the queue, excitement clearly visible on every face. For many travellers, this is their first chance to witness marine life up close without swimming or diving.
This activity is extremely popular and depends heavily on sea visibility, so luck and timing matter a lot.
๐ How the Mini Submarine Experience Works
The total duration of the experience is approximately 1 hour, which includes:
โฑ๏ธ 15 minutes โ Travel from shore to the coral zone
๐ 30 minutes โ Underwater marine life viewing
โฑ๏ธ 15 minutes โ Return journey to the island
๐ฐ Ticket Price:
โข Adult: โน2,100
โข Child (below 12 years): โน1,200
The submarine descends around 3 meters below the water surface, while about 3โ4 meters of the vessel remain above water, ensuring stability and comfort.
๐ข The Vessel โ Coral Safari (Semi-Submarine)
Often referred to as a โCoral Safariโ, this semi-submarine is specially designed for safe and smooth marine exploration.
๐น Sitting arrangement is in the lower underwater cabin
๐น Large, thick high-power glass windows
๐น Windows are fitted with magnifying lenses for better coral visibility
๐น Completely dry experience โ no water contact at all
Once seated, it feels like entering a silent underwater theatre, where nature performs effortlessly.
๐ Visibility โ The Most Important Factor
This experience completely depends on sea water visibility.
๐ค๏ธ On our day, visibility was around 90%, which is considered excellent.
โ ๏ธ Just a small amount of wind can disturb the water clarity.
๐ Important Local Reality:
For the last three days, the submarine activity was closed due to poor visibility.
Thatโs why Andaman travel always demands flexibility โ when conditions are right, you go for it without delay.
๐ชธ Marine Life & Coral Sightings
After around 15 minutes of smooth sailing, the submarine reached the coral bed area.
Inside the underwater cabin, the Andaman Sea slowly revealed its treasures:
๐ Schools of colourful fish
๐ชธ Plate Corals
๐ชจ Boulder Corals
๐ Coral formations located nearly 30 feet below sea level
The guide explained different coral types while fish moved freely around them โ untouched, natural, and calm. The silence inside the cabin made the experience even more immersive.
๐ A Floating Aquarium Experience
Though often marketed as a one-hour ride, the actual marine viewing is part of that total time. Still, the experience feels complete and deeply satisfying.
This is one of the most unique underwater experiences in the Andaman Islands, perfect for:
โ๏ธ non-swimmers
โ๏ธ Families with children
โ๏ธ Senior citizens
โ๏ธ Anyone who wants marine beauty without adventure risk
In the silent travel style of TravelWithSurajit, this journey feels meditative โ as if you are floating inside the ocean, watching life unfold naturally.
๐ Mini Submarine (Semi-Submarine) โ Quick Travel Guide
๐ Location: North Bay Island
โฐ Total Duration: ~1 hour
๐ฐ Cost:
โข Adult โ โน2,100
โข Child (<12 yrs) โ โน1,200
๐ Depth:
โข ~3 meters underwater
โข ~3โ4 meters above water
๐ What to Carry:
Cap, sunglasses, drinking water, camera (allowed)
โ ๏ธ Best Time:
Clear weather days with calm sea (DecโMarch)
๐ญ A Thought from Beneath the Sea
โYou donโt need to dive deep to feel the ocean โ sometimes, just sitting quietly beneath the waves is enough.โ
๐ฅ Enjoy the complete Mini Submarine journey with us:
Exploring the Depths โ Mini Submarine Ride Adventure | Price & Duration – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 4
๐
A Gentle Sunset After Waves & History (Last Part)
After returning from the Mini Submarine ride, it was already around 2:00 PM. Hunger slowly reminded us that it was time to pause and refuel. We decided to have our packed lunch right there at North Bay Island, surrounded by the sea.
We had everything we needed โ lunch packets, drinking water, shaded sitting arrangements, and the soothing sound of waves. So why rush back?
When we opened the lunch packs, we were pleasantly surprised. Inside were fried rice, chicken curry, and fresh salad. Sitting beside the sea, with salt air and ocean views, the simple meal tasted unexpectedly delicious. After lunch, we rested for a while, letting the calm of the island settle into us.
Soon it was time to head back to Port Blair, specifically to the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, where one final activity was waiting โ Jet Ski, booked specially for Titli.
๐ Jet Ski Thrill โ A Perfect End to Ocean Adventures
We reached the Water Sports Complex around 3:15 PM. The Jet Ski activity was also booked by the other family for their younger daughter, who was almost the same age as Titli.
Both girls were excited, slightly nervous, and full of energy.
As the Jet Ski sped across the water, laughter echoed over the waves. The sea spray, speed, and rhythm of the waves made the experience thrilling and unforgettable. Under supervision, both girls even got the chance to handle the Jet Ski briefly, which made them feel confident and proud.
Watching them enjoy the sea so freely was one of the most heartwarming moments of the day.
๐ค๏ธ Back to Port Blair โ Evening Calm
As the afternoon slowly faded, we returned by boat, watching sunlight dance gently on the waves one last time. The engineโs hum, cool sea breeze, and distant shoreline created a peaceful rhythm โ a soft closure to a day full of excitement.
By 5:00 PM, we were back at our hotel โ tired, satisfied, and deeply content.
๐๏ธ Evening Market Plans & A Small Twist
As planned, we thought of visiting the local market in the evening. After some rest and evening snacks โ egg rolls and tea โ we started preparing.
Suddenly, Titli said she was tired and not interested in going out. Since we couldnโt leave her alone at the hotel, we decided that Suchismita and Baba would go to the market, while Titli and I stayed back.
Around 6:30 PM, they left by auto.
But travel days always bring surprises.
About 30 minutes later, Titli changed her mind โ she wanted to buy gifts for her school friends. So we decided to go out and surprise Suchismita and Baba.
๐ Shopping, Surprises & Full Moon Walk
We took an auto and headed to the Government Crafts Emporium โ Sagarika, located near the Anthropological Museum. After Titli bought gifts for her friends, we realized that Suchismita and Baba were shopping at the main local market near Gandhi Statue.
We walked there, met them unexpectedly, and shared a good laugh.
After completing our shopping for relatives and souvenirs, all four of us returned to the hotel on foot, reaching around 9:00 PM.
๐ฝ๏ธ Dinner & A Quiet Ending
After freshening up, we went to the dining room, where Mutton Biryani was waiting for us. It was rich, flavourful, and comforting โ the perfect dinner after such a long day.
Before calling it a night, Suchismita and I took a short walk outside the hotel under the full moonlight. The road was quiet, the air calm, and the moment deeply peaceful.
Day Five had given us history, adventure, family joy, and ocean magic โ a reminder of how beautifully diverse and emotionally rich the Andaman Islands truly are.
๐งญ Day 5 โ Travel Tips
๐ Always stay flexible with water activities โ weather controls everything
๐ Reach Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex early during peak season
๐ฐ Carry some cash for islands (battery cars, snacks, tips)
๐ฑ Packed lunch is very useful on island hopping days
๐งด Use sunscreen & stay hydrated
๐ Keep a small day bag for island trips
๐๏ธ Government emporiums are best for authentic souvenirs
๐ด End of Day Five โ Summary
Day Five was where the past whispered through ruins, the sea roared with adventure, and family moments stitched everything together.
From colonial history at Ross Island, to underwater wonders at North Bay, thrilling Jet Ski rides, peaceful lunches by the sea, and quiet moonlit walks โ the day unfolded like a perfectly balanced story.
Tomorrow, new chapters await.
But Day Five will always remain one of the most complete and emotionally fulfilling days of our Andaman journey.
๐จ Overnight Stay: Hotel Rhishabh, Port Blair
โก๏ธ Continue Reading:
Day 6 โ Forest Paths & Farewell Sunsets: Saw Mills, Hill Views & Chidiya Tapu
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