Snorkeling in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a fantastic way to explore its vibrant coral reefs and marine life without needing scuba diving certification. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and ideal for non-swimmers. Here’s a concise guide tailored to your interest in scuba diving and budget-conscious travel in the Andamans, based on our previous discussion:

Best Places for Snorkeling

• Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep):
  • Elephant Beach: A top snorkeling spot with shallow waters, colorful corals, and fish like clownfish and parrotfish. Accessible by a 20-minute boat ride or a 40-minute trek.
  • Nemo Reef: Shallow and vibrant, perfect for beginners.
• Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep):
  • Bharatpur Beach: Calm, shallow waters with rich coral reefs, ideal for non-swimmers.
  • Laxmanpur Beach: Offers clear waters and diverse marine life, great for sunset snorkeling.
• Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram):
  • North Bay Island: Popular for shore-based snorkeling, with vibrant corals and fish.

Best Time to Snorkel

• October to May: Ideal for calm seas, clear skies, and excellent visibility (10–20 meters). Water temperatures are 26–30°C.
• Monsoon Season (June to September): Not recommended due to rough seas and poor visibility, though prices are lower.

Eligibility and Requirements

• No Swimming Skills Required: Non-swimmers can snorkel with life jackets and guided support.
• Age and Health: Suitable for ages 8–60. No medical certificate needed unless you have serious health conditions (e.g., heart issues).
• Training: No prior training required. Operators provide a 5–10-minute briefing on using gear and safety.

What to Expect

• Marine Life: Clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish, sea anemones, and occasional turtles or reef sharks.
• Corals: Vibrant hard and soft corals, especially at Jolly Buoy and Nemo Reef.
• Visibility: 10–20 meters during peak season, offering stunning underwater views.