Kayaking in Andaman: Complete Guide to Best Places, Prices & Tips (2026)
If someone told you that you could paddle through ancient mangrove tunnels, watch the ocean light up in electric blue beneath your kayak, and chase a golden Andaman sunset — all in the same trip — would you believe them? Well, that’s kayaking in the Andaman Islands for you. It’s not just a water sport here. It’s a front-row seat to one of the most untouched marine ecosystems left on the planet.
Having spent over five years guiding thousands of paddlers through these waters at Turtle Kayaking, we’ve put together everything you need to plan the perfect kayaking experience in Andaman. Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced paddler, this guide covers all the best places, honest pricing, and practical tips that most other guides skip.
What Makes Kayaking in Andaman So Special?
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands sit roughly 1,400 kilometres off India’s eastern coast in the Bay of Bengal. The archipelago is home to over 500 islands, most of them uninhabited, surrounded by some of the clearest waters in South Asia.
In a single day on Havelock Island, you can kayak through dense mangrove creeks in the morning, paddle past coral gardens in transparent kayaks at midday, and then head out after dark to witness bioluminescence — the phenomenon where microscopic plankton make the ocean glow like a starfield beneath your paddle.
The Andaman Forest Department and Tourism Directorate actively regulate water sports, which means the ecosystems remain pristine. Unlike overcrowded tourist beaches in mainland India, here you might be the only kayak on the water for a kilometre in every direction.
Best Places for Kayaking in Andaman
1. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) — The Kayaking Capital
Havelock is, without question, where you want to be if kayaking is on your Andaman itinerary. The island has calm, sheltered waters, a long mangrove channel perfect for beginners, and the famous bioluminescent bay near Vijaynagar Beach. The mangrove kayaking route takes you through narrow green corridors where the tree canopy closes overhead. If you only have time for one kayaking experience in Andaman, do it here.
2. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Neil Island is Havelock’s quieter neighbour. The beaches here are less crowded and have minimal light pollution, excellent for bioluminescence viewing from the shore. Kayaking here is more laid-back — the waters near Bharatpur Beach are shallow and gentle, making it ideal for families with kids.
3. Port Blair — North Bay & Surrounding Creeks
Most visitors treat Port Blair as a transit stop, but there’s decent kayaking available around the capital. North Bay Island has clear waters suitable for transparent kayaking. Several mangrove creeks around Port Blair offer sheltered paddling experiences.
4. Baratang Island
Baratang is a bit of an expedition — a 100-kilometre drive from Port Blair through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve. But the reward is paddling through massive limestone caves and mangrove creeks that most tourists never see.
5. Long Island
Long Island remains one of Andaman’s best-kept secrets. The waters are absurdly clear, there are virtually no crowds, and the beaches feel like private coves.
6. Elephant Beach, Havelock
Elephant Beach draws visitors for its coral reefs and shallow turquoise waters. However, organized kayaking tours from Elephant Beach have been restricted in recent years. Check with local operators for the latest regulations.
7. Vijaynagar Beach (Beach No. 5), Havelock
Vijaynagar is the undisputed hotspot for bioluminescence in Havelock. The beach faces the mangrove channel and has naturally dark conditions with minimal artificial light. This is where most night and early morning bioluminescence kayaking tours operate.
Types of Kayaking You Can Do in Andaman
Mangrove Kayaking
The signature Andaman kayaking experience. You paddle through narrow channels flanked by dense mangrove forests, spotting mudskippers, fiddler crabs, white-bellied sea eagles, and colourful kingfishers. Duration is about 2–2.5 hours. No prior experience needed.
Bioluminescence Night Kayaking
This is the experience that puts Andaman kayaking on the global map. You paddle through dark waters and every stroke of your paddle lights up the ocean in neon blue. The glow is caused by dinoflagellates — microscopic plankton that emit light when disturbed. Visibility depends heavily on the moon phase. Check our Bioluminescence Calendar to pick the best dates.
Sunrise Kayaking
The hidden gem. The tour starts around 3:30 AM, and you get a two-in-one experience — first bioluminescence in the pre-dawn darkness, then the sun coming up over the Andaman Sea from the middle of the water.
Sunset Kayaking
Perfect for couples and photographers. You paddle out as the sky turns orange and gold, catching the last light of the day reflected on still water. Typically a 1.5-hour experience.
Transparent / Glass Kayaking
Available mainly around North Bay Island, transparent kayaking uses see-through kayaks that let you watch coral, fish, and sea life directly beneath you.
Night Kayaking (Non-Bio)
Even on dates when bioluminescence is low, night kayaking under a starry sky in Havelock is peaceful and atmospheric with incredible star-gazing.
Kayaking in Andaman: Prices (2026)
| Tour Type | Price Range | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bioluminescence Night Kayaking | ₹3,800 – ₹3,800 | 1.5–2 hours |
| Mangrove Eco Kayaking | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | 2–2.5 hours |
| Sunrise Kayaking (Bio + Sunrise) | ₹3,800 – ₹3,800 | 2–2.5 hours |
| Sunset Kayaking | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | 1.5 hours |
| Night Kayaking (non-bio) | ₹2,000 – ₹3,800 | 1.5–2 hours |
| Transparent / Glass Kayaking | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 | 45 min – 1 hour |
At Turtle Kayaking, our bioluminescence tour is priced at ₹3,800 per person, and that includes the kayak, certified life jacket, expert guide, safety boat, dry bag, hotel pickup, and refreshments. No hidden charges.
Pro Tip: Some budget operators charge less but cut corners on safety equipment and guide certification. With kayaking — especially night tours — safety should not be negotiable.
Best Time for Kayaking in Andaman
- November to February (Peak Season): Calm seas, clear skies, comfortable temperatures around 25–30°C. Prime time for bioluminescence. Book ahead.
- March to May (Good Season): Warmer, but the sea remains calm. Fewer tourists, less crowded tours.
- June to September (Monsoon): Most kayaking operations shut down. Seas get rough, rain is frequent. Avoid this period.
For bioluminescence specifically, always check the moon phase before booking. The glow is most visible within 5–7 days of a New Moon.
The Three Golden Rules of Kayaking (For Beginners)
- Keep your centre of gravity low. Sit squarely, don’t lean, and avoid sudden movements. Sit-on-top kayaks are extremely stable, but respect the physics.
- Paddle with your torso, not your arms. Rotate your core with each stroke rather than pulling with your biceps. You’ll last longer and be far less tired.
- Always wear your life jacket. Even if you’re an Olympic swimmer. The life jacket is non-negotiable.
Essential Safety Tips for Kayaking in Andaman
- Choose a licensed operator. Make sure they’re approved by the Andaman Forest Department and Tourism Directorate.
- Ask about the safety boat. A motorized safety boat should accompany every group, especially for night tours.
- Avoid cotton clothing. Wear quick-dry shorts and a light t-shirt instead.
- Don’t apply chemical sunscreen before bioluminescence tours. Use reef-safe sunscreen or skip it for night tours.
- You do NOT need to know how to swim. All guests wear life jackets, and a safety boat is always within reach.
How to Book Kayaking in Andaman
- Book at least 2–3 days in advance during peak season. Popular New Moon dates often sell out a week ahead.
- For bioluminescence tours, check the moon phase calendar before choosing your date.
- Confirm what’s included in the price: kayak, guide, life jacket, safety boat, pickup, and dry bag should all be standard.
- Ask about cancellation and weather policies.
At Turtle Kayaking, you can book directly via WhatsApp (+91 94760 35727) or through our website. We include everything in the listed price — no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is kayaking in Andaman safe for beginners?
Completely. The mangrove channels are calm, shallow, and sheltered. Sit-on-top kayaks are extremely stable, and you’ll get a full safety briefing before you start. No swimming ability required.
Where is the best place to kayak in Andaman?
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is the clear winner. It has the most variety — mangrove kayaking, bioluminescence, sunrise and sunset tours — and the most experienced operators.
Is kayaking expensive in Andaman?
Not really. Prices range from about ₹1,500 to ₹3,800 per person. Compared to similar experiences in Southeast Asia or Australia, Andaman kayaking is very affordable.
Can kids do kayaking in Andaman?
Yes. Children aged 5 and above can join with a parent in a tandem kayak. Child-sized life jackets are provided.
Is it better to stay in Port Blair or Havelock for kayaking?
Havelock, hands down. Port Blair has some options, but Havelock has the best spots, operators, and widest range of tours.
Can we see dolphins while kayaking in Andaman?
Dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, but they’re not uncommon during morning tours. You might also spot sea turtles, monitor lizards, and tropical birds.
Final Thoughts
Kayaking in the Andaman Islands is one of those travel experiences that genuinely changes your perspective. The best advice we can give is: don’t rush it. Give yourself at least two different kayaking sessions — ideally a daytime mangrove tour and a bioluminescence night experience.
Ready to paddle? Visit turtlekayaking.com to check the bioluminescence calendar, see tour details, and book your Andaman kayaking adventure.
