Journey Beyond Boundaries Day 5 in Andaman 🌊 Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports Thrills

Day 5 in Andaman 🌊 Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports Thrills

🌊 “Day Five was where history whispered through ruins, coral reefs came alive beneath the sea, and adventure danced on ocean waves.”

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsDay 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsDay 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsDay 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports Thrills

🌅 Day 5 Begins – 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, today’s plan was relaxed yet thrilling — 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.

🌴 Today’s Highlights Ahead


🛥️ Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
🏛️ Ross Island – The British Capital
🐠 North Bay Island – Coral & Water Adventures

☀️ Morning at Port Blair – Slow, Fresh & Peaceful

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsWe 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 — 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. Today’s breakfast was planned outside, so we freshened up completely and got ready for the day.

🚗 Ready to Roll – Leaving the Hotel

🕣 Departure Time:

Around 8:30 AM
🚙 Vehicle: 9-seater Innova

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsBy 8:15 AM, we were fully ready. As the car was slightly delayed, we used the time well — 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 today’s tour — making the group warm, familiar, and cheerful.

🍽️ Breakfast Stop – Island Café Delight

On the way, we stopped at Andaman Kartik’s own restaurant – Island Café, where breakfast was already arranged.

🥘 Breakfast Menu


🍞 Chole Bhatura
🍳 Omelette
🥛 Lassi

It was a satisfying and energetic breakfast. Titli happily enjoyed everything except the lassi — curd isn’t her favourite 😄.

🎒 Packed Lunch Bonus


Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsThey also provided packed lunch for everyone, a thoughtful touch — perfect for a day spent between islands and water activities, where finding food isn’t always easy.

🌊 Towards the Adventure Hub

With full stomachs and high spirits, we moved towards our first destination —

🚤 Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Port Blair


📍 Located near Marina Park
⏰ Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

This place is the gateway to Andaman’s Ocean adventures and the starting point for boats heading to Ross Island and North Bay Island.

The day had officially begun — calm on the surface, but full of excitement underneath.

🌴 Port Blair – The Soul of the Andaman Islands

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsPort Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is not just an administrative center — 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 doesn’t try to impress you loudly — it slowly wins your heart.

🌦️ Climate & Weather – Nature Sets the Pace

Port Blair enjoys a tropical coastal climate throughout the year, shaped by the sea.

☀️ Summer (March to May)

Warm and slightly humid, with temperatures ranging between 24°C to 32°C. Ideal for water sports and island activities.

🌧️ Monsoon (June to September)

Heavy rainfall and rough seas dominate this season. Ferry services and tourism slow down significantly.

❄️ Winter (October to February)

The best time to visit Andaman. Pleasant weather, clear skies, and temperatures between 20°C to 28°C make exploration comfortable. Though humidity remains, the sea breeze keeps everything refreshing.

🤝 People & Lifestyle – 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.

🛕 Religious Harmony – Unity in Diversity

Port Blair reflects India’s diversity beautifully.

🕉️ Hindu temples
🕌 Mosques
⛪ Churches
🪯 Gurudwaras

All exist close to each other, symbolizing mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Religious harmony is not just visible — it is lived daily.

🗣️ Languages – A Mini India

Port Blair feels like a small version of India.

🗨️ Hindi – Most commonly spoken
🗨️ Bengali – Widely used
🗨️ Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam – Common
🗨️ English – Well understood in tourist areas

Communication is easy, warm, and inclusive.

💼 Livelihood & Economy – Driven by the Sea

Tourism is the backbone of Port Blair’s economy.

🏨 Hotels & resorts
🤿 Scuba diving & water sports centers
🚕 Taxis, autos & ferries
🧭 Tour guides & operators

Fishing remains a traditional livelihood, while small businesses — souvenir shops, coconut vendors, handicraft stores, and food stalls — support daily life.

A significant number of residents also work in government services, including administration, education, healthcare, navy, coast guard, and port operations.

🎓 Education & Growth – Rooted Yet Progressive

Education in Port Blair is well developed by island standards.

🏫 Good schools and colleges
📘 Technical & marine studies institutes
✈️ Many students pursue higher education on the mainland

Despite geographical isolation, learning and growth continue steadily.

🌙 Daily Life – Slow, Disciplined & Peaceful

Life in Port Blair follows nature’s rhythm.

🌅 Early mornings
☕ Slow afternoons
🌆 Quiet evenings with tea and conversation
🌌 Calm, silent nights

There is no loud nightlife, no rush. Evenings are often spent walking near the sea or sitting quietly, watching life unfold.

🍽️ Food habits

are simple and healthy — rice, fish, coconut, vegetables, and fresh seafood dominate the plate. Bengali, South Indian, and North Indian cuisines are easily available.

🌊 Island Mentality – 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.

✨ A Thought to Carry Forward

Port Blair is not just a destination — it is a way of life.

It teaches you how to slow down, breathe freely, smile honestly, and live close to nature.

🌊 Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex – The Adventure Gateway of Port Blair

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsLocated 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 — 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.

📍 Location & Surroundings

📌 Situated at Marina Park, Port Blair
📌 Just 2–3 km from most city hotels
📌 Walking distance from Aberdeen Bazaar
📌 Overlooks the open sea with views of boats, yachts, and distant islands

The location itself feels refreshing — a mix of sea breeze, palm-lined walkways, and the sound of waves hitting the jetty.

⏰ Timings & Entry Process

🕘 Operational Time:


10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Daily, weather permitting)

🪪 Entry Procedure:


🔹 Security check at the gate
🔹 Identity verification
🔹 Ticket counters inside the complex
🔹 Boarding pass issued for boats & activities

Morning hours are always recommended as the sea remains calmer and activities run smoothly.

🚤 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.

🛥️ Ross Island (British Capital)


🪧 Historic ruins, colonial buildings, deer, peacocks
⏳ Boat ride: ~15 minutes

🏝️ North Bay Island


🤿 Snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, jet ski
⏳ Boat ride: ~30–40 minutes

Most travellers choose a combined Ross + North Bay package, making this complex the heart of Day-tour planning in Port Blair.

🏄 Water Activities Available

🌊 Jet Ski
– High-speed thrill over blue waters
🤿 Snorkelling – Coral viewing near North Bay
🪂 Parasailing – Bird’s-eye view of the Andaman Sea
🚶 Sea Walking – Walk on the seabed with helmet
🛶 Banana Boat Ride – Group fun with splashes
🚤 Speed Boat Ride – Short adrenaline rush

Each activity is conducted with trained instructors, safety gear, and briefing before participation.

💰 Ticket Prices (Approximate)

🎟️ Entry to Complex:

Free
🚤 Ross Island Boat: ₹300 – ₹500
🏝️ North Bay Boat: ₹700 – ₹1,000
🤿 Snorkelling: ₹800 – ₹1,500
🚶 Sea Walk: ₹3,500 – ₹4,500
🏄 Jet Ski: ₹600 – ₹1,000

Prices may vary based on season, sea condition, and demand.

🧳 Facilities Inside the Complex

🪑 Seating & waiting area
🚻 Clean washrooms
🧴 Life jackets & safety gear counters
📸 Photo & video service desks
🥥 Coconut water & small snack stalls
🎫 Multiple ticket counters for easy booking

Everything is well-managed, organized, and tourist-friendly.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

🌞 October to May – Best Sea visibility & calm water
Morning hours – Less crowd, smoother rides
🌧️ June to September – Limited or cancelled activities due to monsoon

Always check weather & sea conditions before booking water sports.

🌱 Responsible Tourism Reminder

♻️ Do not litter
🐠 Do not touch corals or marine life
🦺 Always follow safety instructions
🌊 Respect the sea — it gives beauty, not challenges

The marine ecosystem here is fragile and precious.

✨ 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 — it is the starting line of unforgettable island experiences.

🌊 Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex: Planning the Ocean Adventures

Around 9:40 AM, we reached the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex. Being peak season — the best time to visit Andaman combined with Christmas holidays — 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.

Today’s plan was clear
🌴 Ross Island (British Capital)
🌊 North Bay Island (Water Activities Hub)

At Ross Island, there are no water sports — it is purely historical and scenic.
At North Bay Island, adventure truly begins.

🤿 Scuba Diving vs 🚶 Sea Walk – Which One to Choose?

This is the most confusing decision for first-time visitors, so here’s a clear comparison from a traveller’s perspective.

🤿 Scuba Diving

🌊 Done in deeper water
🐠 Full immersion into coral reefs & marine life
🫁 Requires breathing through oxygen equipment
📏 Depth usually 6–12 meters
⏳ Duration: 30–45 minutes underwater
⚠️ Not suitable for heart, lung, or anxiety issues

Best for: Adventure lovers who want a real underwater experience

🚶 Sea Walk

🌊 Done in shallow sea bed
🪖 Special helmet with oxygen supply
🚶 Walk naturally on the ocean floor
📏 Depth around 5–7 meters
⏳ Duration: 15–20 minutes
✅ Very safe, even for beginners & seniors

Best for: Non-swimmers, families, first-timers

👉 Short Advice
If you want adventure → Scuba
If you want comfort + safety → Sea Walk

🏄 Activities Available After Returning to Port Blair

Once back at the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, more thrills await:

🚤 Banana Boat Ride
🏍️ Jet Ski
🚤 Speed Boat Ride
🛶 Kayaking
🏄 Stand-Up Paddleboard
🪂 Parasailing (for breathtaking aerial views)

⚠️ Important Truth – Booking Reality (Read This!)

Here’s something many agents won’t tell you clearly 👇

🚫 You will be pressured to book all activities at the complex
🚫 They scare you saying “Later tickets won’t be available”
🚫 Most of this is bogus

✔️ You can book activities directly at Ross & North Bay Islands
✔️ Prices are mostly fixed, but bargaining is possible
✔️ Facilities vary slightly by operator, not by location

👉 If you’re confident, book on the island itself
👉 If you want peace of mind, book only selected activities beforehand

🎟️ Our Booking Decision (Honest Choice)

Since this was our first time, we decided to book only selected activities from here:

🚤 Mini Submarine (North Bay)
💰 ₹1,850 × 4 persons

🏍️ Jet Ski (Port Blair)
💰 ₹600 (for Titli)

🚤 Speed Boat for Ross + North Bay
✔️ Paid by our Andaman travel agent

Total boat capacity: 10 people
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Us (4) + another family (4) + manager + boat driver

🎒 What to Carry Today

🩳 Extra clothes
🧴 Towel
🧴 Sunblock
🩴 Slippers
📱 Waterproof phone cover (recommended)

🧭 Smart Traveler Tips

⏰ Reach early for better slots
💳 Carry both cash & UPI
🔋 Keep phone fully charged
🌊 Morning hours = best visibility & calm sea

This complex truly felt like the starting line of our ocean adventure — 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.

🎥 For a complete walkthrough of activities & prices, watch:
Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex – Activities, Price & Timings – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 1
🏝️ Ross Island: Echoes of a Forgotten British Capital

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsOur 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 — 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.
Travel Time: ~15–20 minutes
💰 Boat Cost: ₹500 – ₹900 per person (round trip)

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsAs 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 — the island felt mystical, almost unreal.

🏛️ 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:
🏠 British officers’ bungalows
⛪ Churches
🎖️ Clubs & administrative offices
📰 Printing press
⚡ Power house
🍞 Bakery

Before Port Blair grew into today’s 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 — turning the island into an open-air museum.

⚔️ World War II & Tsunami – The Island’s Dark & Heroic Past

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsDuring World War II, Ross Island faced heavy destruction when the Japanese occupied Andaman for over three years. Bombings damaged major structures, including the Commissioner’s Bungalow. Those scars are still visible today.

A lesser-known but powerful truth —
🌊 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 wasn’t just a victim of history — it was also a silent protector.

🚗 Exploring the Island Comfortably

After reaching the jetty, we hired battery-operated vehicles.

💰 Battery Car Charge: ₹100 per person
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹30–₹50 (often included with boat ticket)

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsSince Ross Island has uneven terrain and slopes, hiring the vehicle makes exploration comfortable — especially for seniors.

🚙 One vehicle accommodates 6 people including the driver
👥 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.

👁️ Eye Point & Lighthouse Experience

The battery car took us to Eye Point, located around 200 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views of:

🌊 The vast Andaman Sea
🏙️ Port Blair city
🚢 Ships floating silently in the distance

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsFrom there, we walked down around 100 steps to reach the lighthouse. The view from here was stunning — 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.

📸 We captured plenty of photos and videos — this was one of the most scenic spots of the island.

🦌 Where Nature Lives Freely

On our way back to the starting point, we encountered something beautiful —
🦌 Deer roaming freely, completely unafraid of humans
🌴 Coconut trees towering above
🌿 Absolute calm, untouched and raw

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsRoss Island doesn’t allow any water activities — and that’s what preserves its soul.

📍 Ross Island Travel Guide (Quick Info)

📌 Location: 3 km east of Port Blair
🕒 Best Time to Visit: Morning (less heat, clearer views)
Island Time Needed: 1 – 1.5 hours
🎫 Entry Fee: ₹30–₹50
🚤 Boat Ride: ₹500–₹900 (round trip)
🚗 Battery Vehicle: ₹100 per person

💭 One Line That Defines Ross Island

“Ross Island doesn’t speak — it remembers, and in its silence, history breathes.”

🎥 To experience this journey visually, watch:
Ross Island: The Forgotten British Capital – History, Ticket & Exploration – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 2
🌊 North Bay Island: Where Adventure Meets the Ocean

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsFrom 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.

🐠 Underwater Submarine Experience – Marine Life Without Getting Wet

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsOur 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 —
🐟 schools of colourful fish
🪸 coral gardens
🌊 calm blue depths

The clarity of water made the experience even more magical. It felt peaceful, surreal, and unforgettable.

🎟️ Booking Activities – A Practical Tip for Travelers

North Bay Island is slightly crowded, especially during peak season. The good part is —
✔️ You can book water activities directly on the island
✔️ There is some scope for bargaining
✔️ There are two different Mini Submarine vendors — one larger than the other

Important Logic to Know:
Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsEach 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.

👉 Tip: Booking directly on the island gives more flexibility in timing and choice.

🤿 Other Water Activities at North Bay Island

North Bay is one of the best islands for marine activities near Port Blair.

Available activities include:
🤿 Scuba Diving
🚶‍♂️ Sea Walk
🐠 Snorkelling
🚤 Glass Bottom Boat Ride

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsSince we had already done Scuba & Sea Walk at Havelock Island, we used our waiting time to explore the island, relax, and do photography.

🗼 The Iconic Lighthouse – A Piece of Indian History

One of the most recognizable landmarks here is the North Bay Lighthouse.

📜 This lighthouse once appeared on the back side of the old Indian 20 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.

🌤️ Weather Reality of Andaman – A Local Wisdom

As advised by our travel agent:

“In Andaman, don’t wait for tomorrow. If the activity is available today — do it.”

Weather here changes quickly.
🌧️ Rough Sea or sudden wind can cancel activities anytime.

👉 Rule of Andaman Travel:
Do the activity when and where it is available, not where you planned to do it.

🍱 Lunch & Facilities on the Island

Though it was only 12:30 PM, we were not hungry yet.
But if needed:
🍽️ Seating arrangements are available
💧 Drinking water is available
🍱 You can eat packed lunch comfortably here

🌴 Why North Bay Island Is Special

North Bay Island is a true hidden gem of the Andaman Islands.

🌊 Crystal-clear water
🪸 Coral reefs starting close to the shore
🤿 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.

🔁 Perfect Contrast:
🏛️ Ross Island – History & silence
🌊 North Bay Island – Life & movement

This contrast is what makes this combo tour so special.

📍 North Bay Island – Quick Travel Guide

📌 Location: Near Port Blair
Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hours
🚤 Boat Ride: Included with Ross Island circuit
🎫 Entry Fee: Included in boat ticket
🤿 Activity Cost (Approx):
• Mini Submarine: ₹1,800 – ₹2,000
• Sea Walk: ₹3,500 – ₹4,000
• Scuba Diving: ₹3,500 – ₹4,500
• Snorkelling: ₹500 – ₹800

👕 What to Carry:
Extra clothes, towel, sunscreen, slippers, waterproof pouch

💭 A Thought from North Bay Island

“Where history sleeps, the ocean awakens — and North Bay lets you touch both.”

🎥 Watch the complete North Bay Island experience here:
Discovering the Hidden Gem of Andaman – North Bay Island Adventure – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 3
🚤 Into the Blue: Mini Submarine (Semi-Submarine) Adventure at North Bay Island

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsNow it was time for one of the most awaited experiences of the day — 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.

🌊 How the Mini Submarine Experience Works

The total duration of the experience is approximately 1 hour, which includes:

⏱️ 15 minutes – Travel from shore to the coral zone
🐠 30 minutes – Underwater marine life viewing
⏱️ 15 minutes – Return journey to the island

💰 Ticket Price:
• Adult: ₹2,100
• Child (below 12 years): ₹1,200

The submarine descends around 3 meters below the water surface, while about 3–4 meters of the vessel remain above water, ensuring stability and comfort.

🚢 The Vessel – Coral Safari (Semi-Submarine)

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsOften referred to as a “Coral Safari”, this semi-submarine is specially designed for safe and smooth marine exploration.

🔹 Sitting arrangement is in the lower underwater cabin
🔹 Large, thick high-power glass windows
🔹 Windows are fitted with magnifying lenses for better coral visibility
🔹 Completely dry experience — no water contact at all

Once seated, it feels like entering a silent underwater theatre, where nature performs effortlessly.

👀 Visibility – The Most Important Factor

This experience completely depends on sea water visibility.

🌤️ On our day, visibility was around 90%, which is considered excellent.
⚠️ Just a small amount of wind can disturb the water clarity.

📌 Important Local Reality:
For the last three days, the submarine activity was closed due to poor visibility.

That’s why Andaman travel always demands flexibility — when conditions are right, you go for it without delay.

🪸 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:
🐟 Schools of colourful fish
🪸 Plate Corals
🪨 Boulder Corals
🌊 Coral formations located nearly 30 feet below sea level

The guide explained different coral types while fish moved freely around them — untouched, natural, and calm. The silence inside the cabin made the experience even more immersive.

🌊 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:
✔️ non-swimmers
✔️ Families with children
✔️ Senior citizens
✔️ Anyone who wants marine beauty without adventure risk

In the silent travel style of TravelWithSurajit, this journey feels meditative — as if you are floating inside the ocean, watching life unfold naturally.

📍 Mini Submarine (Semi-Submarine) – Quick Travel Guide

📌 Location: North Bay Island
Total Duration: ~1 hour
💰 Cost:
• Adult – ₹2,100
• Child (<12 yrs) – ₹1,200

🌊 Depth:
• ~3 meters underwater
• ~3–4 meters above water

👕 What to Carry:
Cap, sunglasses, drinking water, camera (allowed)

⚠️ Best Time:
Clear weather days with calm sea (Dec–March)

💭 A Thought from Beneath the Sea

“You don’t need to dive deep to feel the ocean — sometimes, just sitting quietly beneath the waves is enough.”

🎥 Enjoy the complete Mini Submarine journey with us:
Exploring the Depths – Mini Submarine Ride Adventure | Price & Duration – Andaman Tour: Day 5 Ep 4
🌅 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 — 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 — Jet Ski, booked specially for Titli.

🌊 Jet Ski Thrill – A Perfect End to Ocean Adventures

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsWe 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.

🌤️ Back to Port Blair – Evening Calm

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsAs the afternoon slowly faded, we returned by boat, watching sunlight dance gently on the waves one last time. The engine’s hum, cool sea breeze, and distant shoreline created a peaceful rhythm — a soft closure to a day full of excitement.

By 5:00 PM, we were back at our hotel — tired, satisfied, and deeply content.

🛍️ Evening Market Plans & A Small Twist

As planned, we thought of visiting the local market in the evening. After some rest and evening snacks — egg rolls and tea — we started preparing.

Day 5 in Andaman - Ross Island History, North Bay Adventures & Water Sports ThrillsSuddenly, Titli said she was tired and not interested in going out. Since we couldn’t 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 — she wanted to buy gifts for her school friends. So we decided to go out and surprise Suchismita and Baba.

🎁 Shopping, Surprises & Full Moon Walk

We took an auto and headed to the Government Crafts Emporium – 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.

🍽️ 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 — 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 — a reminder of how beautifully diverse and emotionally rich the Andaman Islands truly are.

🧭 Day 5 – Travel Tips

🌊 Always stay flexible with water activities — weather controls everything
🕘 Reach Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex early during peak season
💰 Carry some cash for islands (battery cars, snacks, tips)
🍱 Packed lunch is very useful on island hopping days
🧴 Use sunscreen & stay hydrated
🎒 Keep a small day bag for island trips
🛍️ Government emporiums are best for authentic souvenirs

🌴 End of Day Five – 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 — 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.

🏨 Overnight Stay: Hotel Rhishabh, Port Blair

➡️ Continue Reading:
Day 6 – Forest Paths & Farewell Sunsets: Saw Mills, Hill Views & Chidiya Tapu

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