Sea Walking in The Andaman Islands

The Andaman Islands offer an array of thrilling and serene experiences, and one of the most unique among them is Sea Walking. The Andaman Islands were the first in India to launch this activity, offering travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk on the sea bed and witness the underwater world up close. Whether you are a seasoned diver or someone with no prior underwater experience, Sea Walking provides a secure and exciting way to explore the marine treasures of the Andamans.

What is Sea Walking?

Sea Walking is an exhilarating activity where participants walk on the ocean floor at 6-7 meters deep. Unlike scuba diving or snorkeling, no prior training or special equipment is required. A helmet with a transparent visor is placed on your head, connected to a breathing apparatus that allows normal breathing underwater. As you walk on the sea bed, you will be accompanied by experienced guides and lifeguards to ensure your safety.

This adventure offers a rare chance to experience the undersea world without the complexities of  Scuba diving, making it an excellent option for non-diverse and first-timers. Imagine walking among colorful corals, seeing schools of vibrant fish swim by, and discovering the rich biodiversity of the Andaman Sea - all while comfortably walking on the ocean floor.

How Does Sea Walking Work?

The process of Sea Walking is simple and designed with safety in mind. After reaching the dive site, you will receive a brief orientation on how the activity works, including instructions on hand signals for easy communication underwater. You will wear a specially designed helmet that allows you to breathe normally while keeping your head dry.

Once you are ready, the lifeguard will assist you in descending to the sea bed, where you will embark on your underwater walk. The sensation of walking on the ocean floor is often compared to walking on the moon - an extraordinary experience that makes you feel you are floating in another world. You will be able to observe marine life from close quarters and enjoy the serenity of the underwater environment.

Best Places for Sea Walking in the Andaman Islands

There are two main locations where Sea Walking is available in the Andaman Islands.

1. North Bay Island, Port Blair

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North Bay Island was the first location in India to introduce Sea Walking. This spot was carefully selected after extensive research due to its vibrant coral reef and rich marine life, making it a natural aquarium. The sea bed here is diverse, with a wide variety of fishes and colorful corals.

A stationed platform at North Bay Island, designed for first-time walkers, makes the experience smooth and enjoyable. Netted boundaries around the platform ensure safety, while trained divers are always nearby to assist. The shallow waters and clear visibility make this location ideal for beginners.

2. Elephant Beach, Havelock Island

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The second Sea Walk location is at Elephant Beach on Havelock Island. The coral reef here starts close to the shore, making it easily accessible. After a short boat ride to the starting point, you will receive instructions on walking techniques and underwater communication. Once you are in the water, trained staff will accompany you to ensure a safe and exciting experience.

Elephant Beach in Havelock Island is known for its stunning underwear landscapes, and Sea Walking here allows you to explore its coral gardens and marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Best Time for Sea Walking in the Andaman Islands

The best time to go Sea Walking in the Andamans is during the dry season, which runs from October to May. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the seas are calm, offering excellent visibility underwater. The water is clear and warm, Making it perfect for underwater activities.

Avoid planning a trip during the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rainfall, high tides, and strong winds can disrupt water-based activities. Additionally, visibility underwater is significantly reduced during this time due to the rough seas.

What to Expect During Sea Walk

When you embark on a Sea Walk, you are essentially taking an underwater tour of a coral reef. Expect to walk between vibrant coral formations, spot a wide range of fish species, and discover the rich marine biodiversity in the clear blue waters of the lagoon. The experience is both serene and exhilarating as you observe marine life in their natural habitat without the need for complicated diving gear.

The underwater environment is peaceful, and you will feel as though you have entered a different world. Walking on the ocean floor allows you to see marine life up close - an unforgettable experience that feels magical.

How Safe is Sea Walking?

Sea Walking is incredibly safe and designed for almost everyone. People aged between 10 and 50 years can participate without any prior experience. Certified and trained guides are always present during the walk, ensuring that you are comfortable and safe at all times. Netted boundaries, clear instructions, and constant assistance make this activity enjoyable and risk-free.

For safety reasons, however individuals with certain medical conditions - such as asthma, heart conditions, and pregnant women - are advised to avoid this activity. If you are unsure whether Sea Walking is suitable for you, it is always best to consult with a doctor beforehand.

Safety Measures

To guarantee your safety, the following measures are in place:

• Trained staff will provide instruction and accompany you underwater.
• Helmets are specially designed for comfortable breathing underwater.
• Lifeguards and divers are present throughout the activity.
• Netted boundaries around the platforms at North Bay ensure that you remain within a safe zone during the walk.
• Strict adherence to safety protocols ensures that even non-swimmers can participate without fear.

Conclusion

Sea Walking in the Andaman Islands is a one-of-a-kind adventure that offers an immersive experience of marine life without the need for diving skills. From walking on the sea bed at North Bay Island to exploring the coral reefs at Elephant Beach, Sea Walking provides a unique opportunity to witness the underwater world in a safe and enjoyable way. Whether you are visiting the Andamans for the first time or looking for a new way to explore the islands, this is an experience you won't want to miss.