Submarine ride in Andaman | Andaman Tourism

Coral Safari – Andaman, Introduction

The Coral Safari in the Andaman Islands is a semi-submarine ride tour that offers will open the floodgates to the wondrous sea life for you and you will enjoy an opportunity to explore the rich marine life and coral reefs of the region without actually undergoing the duress of diving and getting wet or getting jitters at the thought of diving into the wild open seas. It is the most comfortable way to enjoy the underwater beauty for people of all ages, especially those who may not want to or may not have the adventurous spirit to engage in activities like snorkelling or scuba diving.

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Let’s have a glimpse of the details of the semi-submarine ride of Andaman

Semi-Submarine Ride

You will take a tour in a semi-submarine, which is a unique vessel with a lower deck submerged underwater, allowing you to sit and view the coral reefs and marine life through large glass windows. This ride gives a clear, enlarged, sensational view of the vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish and other marine creatures floating or swimming around the submarine. The excitement and thrill is unparalleled.

Location of Coral Safari – Andaman

The Coral Safari tours typically take place around North Bay Island or Port Blair. North Bay Island, located near Port Blair, is very popular among Andaman tourists for its colourful coral formations and diverse marine ecosystem.

Duration of the Ride

The ride usually lasts for about 1.5 to 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy and photograph marine life.

Marine Life Around the Submarine

You can expect to see a variety of vibrant coral species, dazzling schools of fish and possibly even sea turtles or other exotic sea creatures depending on the location of the dive. The crystal-clear waters of Andaman ensure excellent visibility for underwater viewing.

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Family-Friendly Experience

The Coral Safari is suitable for all age groups, making it a great family-friendly activity. It is particularly popular with children, senior citizens and those who are not comfortable with water-based activities.

Deep Sea Photography

Don’t forget to carry your camera, as the underwater views from the semi-submarine offer some of the best photo opportunities of the coral reefs and marine life without having to get wet.

Booking and Cost of Andaman Coral Safari

You can book tickets for the Coral Safari through various tour operators in Port Blair, online booking platforms, or even at the Andaman Tourism centres. Prices typically range between INR 1,500 to INR 2,500 per person, depending on the season and the operator. Please check the prevailing rates before booking as they are subjected to changes.

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Tips for a Hassle-Free Submarine Ride

Here are some helpful tips for a hassle-free submarine ride during your Coral Safari in the Andaman Islands.

Book Your Ride in Advance

Submarine rides, especially the Coral Safari, are quite popular in the Andaman Islands. Pre-book your tickets online or through a trusted local tour operator to avoid last-minute hassles or unavailability. Booking in advance will also help you to secure your preferred time slot.

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Arrive Early

Make sure you reach the departure point, the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair, well before your scheduled time. This gives you enough time for ticket validation and boarding formalities. Arriving early ensures you get good seating for the best view through the glass windows.

Carry Essentials for the Short Ride

Even though the ride is confined to an indoor environment, it is a good idea to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat if you’ll be waiting outside in the sun before boarding. Don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the stunning marine life through the windows.

Motion Sickness

If you or your family members suffer from motion sickness, it is best to take an anti-motion sickness pill approximately half an hour before the ride. The submarine ride is smooth, but some people might still experience mild discomfort from the boat’s downward and upward movement. It is a good idea to eat a very light meal before the submarine ride to avoid nausea.

Follow the Directions of the Crew

The crew members will provide important safety instructions and guidelines before and during the ride. Pay close attention to them for a safe and enjoyable experience. Follow their instructions on when and where to board, and how to safely move around the vessel.

Choose a Central Seat

Try to sit in the middle rows of the submarine to get the best viewing angles. These seats usually offer a better view of both sides of the coral reef, compared to seats at the far ends. The middle area also tends to be more stable, which can help you avoid motion sickness.

Stay Seated

During the ride, it’s essential to remain seated as much as possible. The semi-submarine can sway slightly, and moving around too much might disturb other passengers or cause unnecessary discomfort. Waiting until the submarine comes to a complete stop before standing or walking around will be wise.

Respect Marine Life

The marine life you observe through the glass windows is fragile and should not be disturbed. Although you won’t be directly interacting with the marine creatures, remember to avoid loud noises or flashes that could startle them. Also, avoid knocking on the glass or trying to attract the fish or corals by any means such as sudden gestures or noises. Gelling with the surrounding is the best way to observe the animals in their best and ideal natural habitat.

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Keep Valuables Secure

Make sure to keep your personal belongings like phones, cameras and wallets securely with you. Since the submarine has tight spaces, it is easy to drop things and it might be difficult to retrieve them once dropped in the nooks and corners.

Check the Weather

Although the ride takes place indoors, it is important to be aware of the weather conditions on the day of your Coral Safari. Inclement weather can sometimes negatively affect visibility underwater or even cause delay or even cancellation of the ride. Checking the weather forecast and staying informed always helps plan better.

Dress Comfortably

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you may have to walk around the pier before boarding the submarine. Inside the submarine, the temperature is usually regulated, but it is best to avoid heavy clothing since usually most maritime weather is hot and humid, even if not extremely so.

Be Patient

During peak tourist seasons, the submarine ride can be quite busy with large crowds flocking for this tourist attraction of Andaman. Be patient while waiting for your turn to board and allow others to enjoy their experience as well. This will ensure everyone has a peaceful and pleasant ride.

Use the Restroom Beforehand

There may not be restrooms available once you are inside the submarine. Make sure to use the bathroom before boarding to avoid any discomfort during the ride, which typically lasts about 1-2 hours.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your submarine ride in the Andaman Islands is not only hassle-free but also a smooth and enjoyable experience. Enjoy the serene and magical underwater world without any stress or discomfort.

Why You Should Not Miss Coral Safari in Andaman

The Andaman Coral Safari offers an unforgettable and unique opportunity to experience the underwater world of the Andaman Islands, making it one of the most beautiful marine experiences in India.

Magnificent Coral Reefs

The vibrant coral reefs are the primary zone of the Coral Safari. The semi-submarine allows you to view the stunning colours and intricate patterns of corals from close quarters, without having to dip or dive into the sea water. These reefs, teeming with life, create an underwater garden of reds, oranges, yellows and blues. The variety of corals, from massive coral structures to delicate fan corals, brings before you the best of the incredible biodiversity of the Andaman marine ecosystem.

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Crystal-Clear Waters

The waters around North Bay and Port Blair are renowned for being crystal clear for unhindered viewing. This allows excellent visibility of the underwater world. The glass panels of the semi-submarine adds to this experience by providing a clear and magnified view of the vibrant marine life, even several meters below the surface.

Diverse Marine Life

The Coral Safari takes you through sea zones filled with diverse marine creatures. You can spot colourful tropical fish darting through the corals, playful clownfish, schools of angelfish, parrotfish and sometimes even sea turtles or rays. The sight of hundreds of fish swimming in synchrony over the coral beds is mesmerizing, offering a dynamic and quickly and constantly changing view of the seas during the ride.

Underwater Serenity

Unlike snorkelling or diving, the semi-submarine ride allows you to experience the underwater world in complete tranquillity. The peaceful and silent exploration of the vibrant reefs feels like you are gliding through a massive aquarium, making it a soothing yet awe-inspiring experience. The slow-moving semi-submarine gives you plenty of time and comfort to observe the intricate details of the coral structures and marine life.

Panoramic Views

The large glass windows of the semi-submarine offer a panoramic view of the underwater world. This design allows everyone aboard to have a front-row seat accessing the spectacle of the Andaman Sea around, giving each passenger a unique and incredible experience. The glass of the windows are designed to amplify the natural colours of the corals and fish, making the views especially vivid and surreal.

Accessibility for All

The Coral Safari is an all-encompassing and superbly fulfilling experience. It is ideal for people who may not be comfortable with snorkelling or scuba diving but still want to witness the beauty of the Andaman reefs. It is also family-friendly, allowing children and elderly visitors to enjoy the magic of the underwater world together, without the need for special training or equipment. This privilege wouldn’t have been possible without the service of the submarine.

Scenic Island Surroundings

In addition to the marine beauty, the outside-water views are equally stunning. As the semi-submarine cruises near North Bay Island, you are surrounded by lush green hills, blue skies and turquoise waters that adds to the sense of serenity and natural beauty. The journey to and from the semi-submarine location is scenic as well, providing breathtaking views of the Andaman archipelago’s beaches and tropical landscapes.

Photographic Opportunities

Whether you are a professional photographer or just capturing memories, the Coral Safari offers mesmerizing photography opportunities. The contrast of the vibrant coral reefs and the colourful marine life calls for stunning pictures. You don’t need special equipment, as the semi-submarine windows allow for clear shots even with a regular camera or phone.

Perfect for Relaxation

The Coral Safari is a relaxing experience, where you can sit back and enjoy the natural beauty of the ocean without a second thought. The calm and peaceful underwater views makes it a perfect break from more strenuous activities.

To conclude, the beauty of the Andaman Coral Safari lies in its ability to introduce you to the rich, diverse, multitude and spectacular underwater world without any of the efforts or risks associated with deep-sea diving. The clear waters, thriving coral reefs and abundant marine life offer a mesmerizing glimpse into a vibrant ecosystem that is rarely seen by most people. The experience is enhanced by the serene surroundings of the Andaman Islands, making it a must-do activity to be included in the Andaman itinerary. If you visit the Andamans, the Coral Safari is a compelling adventure that blends beauty, relaxation and exploration into a single, magical experience. Take help from your travel and tour operator to give you further insights about the submarine ride and facilitate booking and assist in the successful completion of this unique adventure.