Everything You Need to Know About North Bay Island

North Bay Island is a small but beautiful island located near Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and abundance of marine life.

Historical Significance

North Bay Island, like the rest of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including the Great Andamanese, Onge, and Jarawa, are believed to have lived on these islands for tens of thousands of years. The exact history of North Bay Island, however, is not well-documented.

During the colonial era, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands came under the control of the British, who established a penal colony on the islands. Thousands of Indian freedom fighters were sent to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as prisoners, where they were subjected to brutal treatment and hard labor. North Bay Island, like many other islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, was used as a site for the penal colony. It is believed that prisoners were forced to work on the island, clearing the land and building infrastructure for the British colonizers.

After India gained independence in 1947, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands became a part of the Indian Union. The penal colony was eventually closed down, and the islands were opened up for tourism. Today, North Bay Island is a popular tourist destination, known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and abundance of marine life.

Location and How to Reach

North Bay Island is located about 15 kilometers from Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is easily accessible by boat or ferry from Port Blair. Visitors can take a ferry from the Phoenix Bay Jetty, which takes about 30 minutes to reach North Bay Island.

Attractions

North Bay Island is known for its clear and calm waters, which are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The island is also home to a variety of coral reefs, which attract divers and snorkelers from all over the world.

In addition to snorkeling and scuba diving, North Bay Island offers a range of other activities. Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the underwater world without getting wet. They can also go for a ride on a banana boat or enjoy parasailing for a bird's eye view of the island and the surrounding ocean.

Beaches

North Bay Island is known for its stunning beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beaches here are very clean, and the water is crystal clear, making it an ideal place for beach lovers. Some of the most popular beaches on North Bay Island include:

North Bay Beach

This is the main beach on the island and is known for its white sand and crystal-clear water. It is an ideal place for swimming and sunbathing.

Coral Beach

This beach is famous for its coral formations, which are visible from the shore. It is an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Activities

Snorkeling

North Bay Island is known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear and explore the coral reefs and marine life just below the surface of the water.

Scuba Diving

For those who want to explore the underwater world in more depth, scuba diving is a must-do activity on North Bay Island. Visitors can take a scuba diving course and explore the coral reefs and marine life with an experienced guide.

Glass Bottom Boat Rides

Visitors who don't want to get wet can take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the underwater world. The boats have a glass bottom, allowing passengers to see the coral reefs and marine life without getting wet.

Banana Boat Rides

For those who love a bit of excitement, banana boat rides are a popular activity on North Bay Island. Visitors can ride on a banana-shaped inflatable boat, towed by a speedboat.

Parasailing

For a bird's eye view of the island and the surrounding ocean, visitors can go parasailing. A speedboat tows a parasail, which lifts visitors up into the air for a thrilling ride.

Accommodation

There are no accommodation options available on North Bay Island. Visitors can stay in Port Blair, which has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. There are hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Port Blair that cater to both domestic and international tourists.

Travel Tips

1. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the island has rocky terrain.
2. It is important to carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect oneself from the sun.
3. Visitors must obtain a permit from the Forest Department in Port Blair before visiting North Bay Island.
4. It is recommended to book snorkeling and scuba diving activities in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.
5. Visitors are not allowed to collect corals or shells from the island, as it is a protected area.
6. The island has limited food and water facilities, so visitors are advised to carry their own food and water.