In the Andaman Islands, some trips do not demand days of travel or long planning. You can unfold gently within a single day, leaving behind memories that stay far longer than the hours spent. The day trip to Ross Island and North Bay Island is one of such experience that need not to long plan before. Located just off the coast of Port Blair, these two islands together represent the soul of Andaman, where history rests quietly under the tall coconuts and palms trees and the ocean reveals its vibrant coral life just below the surface.
For first-time travellers, this trip is often the moment when Andaman stops being a destination on a map and starts feeling real. The boat ride itself, gliding over calm blue waters, sets the tone for what lies ahead. Within minutes, the noise of Port Blair fades, replaced by sea breeze, distant islands, and an overwhelming sense of calm that defines the Andaman way of life.
Ross Island, now officially known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, welcomes visitors with an atmosphere that feels memorable in time. Once the administrative capital of the British in the Andaman Islands, the island was home to senior officers, churches, hospitals, bakeries, and elegant residences. Today, these structures stand roofless and broken, yet dignified, as nature slowly reclaims what humans once built. Walking through Ross Island feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into an ancients time where silence speaks louder than words.
The paths on Ross Island wind through dense greenery, and every turn reveals remnants of a colonial past wrapped tightly by massive tree roots. Walls bend under the pressure of time, staircases lead to open skies, and arched doorways frame nothing but forests beyond. It is impossible to walk here without imagining the lives once lived within these walls. The island does not try to impress with grandeur; instead, it humbles visitors with quiet decay and natural beauty coexisting in perfect balance.
As you move deeper into the island, the presence of wildlife becomes impossible to ignore. Deer wander freely across open spaces, often stopping mid-path without fear, while peacocks perch silently among the trees. These gentle encounters add to the surreal quality of Ross Island, reminding travellers that nature has fully reclaimed its place. From certain viewpoints, the sea stretches endlessly, offering clear views of Port Blair and nearby islands, making Ross Island a favourite spot for photographers seeking emotion rather than perfection.
The historical layers of Ross Island extend beyond British rule. Hidden among the greenery are Japanese bunkers built during World War II, silent reminders of Andaman’s role in global history. These concrete structures, now weathered and moss-covered, add depth to the island’s narrative, transforming a simple walk into a journey across centuries. Spending time here does not feel rushed, and most visitors naturally slow their pace, allowing the island to reveal itself gradually.
After absorbing the calm and history of Ross Island, the journey continues toward North Bay Island, where the mood shifts dramatically. As the boat approaches, the water turns a brighter shade of blue, and floating platforms appear against the horizon. North Bay Island is alive with colour, movement, and excitement, offering a complete contrast to the stillness of Ross Island. This balance between quiet reflection and vibrant adventure is what makes this day trip truly special.
North Bay Island is widely known for its shallow coral reefs and clear waters, making it one of the most accessible marine destinations in the Andaman Islands. Even travellers with no prior experience in water activities find themselves comfortable here. The beach buzzes with energy, yet the surroundings never feel overwhelming. The ocean remains the star, inviting visitors to explore its underwater world at their own pace.
For many, snorkelling at North Bay Island becomes their first intimate interaction with the Andaman Sea. Floating gently on the surface, watching schools of colourful fish move through coral gardens, creates a sense of wonder that photographs can never fully capture. The water is calm, visibility is often excellent, and trained instructors ensure safety at every step, allowing even hesitant swimmers to relax and enjoy the experience.
One of the most talked-about experiences at North Bay Island is sea walking, an activity designed especially for non-swimmers. Wearing a specially designed helmet, visitors descend slowly onto the ocean floor, walking among fish and coral formations. The sensation of standing underwater, surrounded by marine life, feels almost unreal and is often described as one of the most memorable moments of an Andaman trip.
For those seeking a deeper connection with the ocean, introductory scuba diving sessions offer a guided exploration beneath the surface. These experiences are carefully managed, making them suitable even for beginners. Meanwhile, travellers who prefer to stay dry can still enjoy the beauty of the underwater world through glass-bottom boat rides, which provide clear views of coral reefs without entering the water.
The flow of the day is thoughtfully paced. After leaving Port Blair in the morning, visitors spend ample time exploring Ross Island before heading to North Bay Island for water activities and relaxation. The return journey in the late afternoon offers a final moment to reflect, as the sun softens and the sea turns calm once again. It is during this ride back that many travellers realize how much they have experienced in just a single day.
Timing plays an important role in making this trip enjoyable. The months from October to May offer the best conditions, with calm seas and pleasant weather. Morning departures are always recommended, as they provide better light, smoother boat rides, and more time on the islands without feeling rushed. Regardless of the season, the experience remains deeply rewarding when planned well.
For first-time visitors, this day trip serves as the perfect introduction to Andaman. It offers history without heaviness, adventure without intimidation, and nature without excess. Families appreciate the safety and variety, couples enjoy the romantic scenery, and solo travellers find moments of quiet connection that are rare in popular destinations.
Booking this experience with Bagpack2Go ensures that every detail is handled smoothly, from permits and boat transfers to activity coordination. With local expertise and transparent planning, Bagpack2Go allows travellers to focus entirely on experiencing the islands rather than managing logistics.
The Ross Island and North Bay Island day trip is not about ticking off attractions. It is about understanding Andaman in a single, beautifully balanced day. It is about walking through forgotten corridors of history in the morning and floating above living coral reefs by afternoon. Few places in India offer such contrast so effortlessly, and fewer still leave such a lasting impression.
For anyone visiting Andaman for the first time, this journey is not optional. It is essential. It is the day when Andaman stops being just another destination and becomes a story you carry home.
Ross Island & North Bay Island Day Trip Cost (Port Blair)
1. Ferry / Boat Charges:
Port Blair to Ross Island ferry: INR 550 per person
Ross Island and North Bay Island ferry: INR 870 per person
2. Entry / Sightseeing Fees:
Ross Island entry: INR 80 per person
North Bay Island entry: free
3. Water Sports (Optional on North Bay Island):
Snorkeling / Sea Walking: INR 700–INR 1,200 per person
Scuba Diving (Shore Dive): INR 3,500 per person (age 12–47, includes pickup & drop)
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride: INR 500–INR 800 per person
Kayaking / Banana Boat / Jet Ski: INR 500–INR 1,500 per person
4. Meals & Refreshments
Beachside café or small restaurants: INR 300–INR 500 per person for lunch/snacks
5. Local Transport in Port Blair:
Auto-rickshaw / taxi to ferry jetty: INR 100–INR 200 per trip
Estimated Total Cost Per Person (Without Water Sports)
Ferry + Entry + Meals + Local transport =INR 1,000–INR 1,500 per person
Tip: Booking combined ferry + water sports packages in advance often gives 10–15% discount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can Ross Island and North Bay Island be covered in one day?
Yes, they are designed to be visited together in a single day.
Q2:Is this trip safe for non-swimmers?
Yes, many activities are non-swimmer friendly.
Q3: Do I need prior booking?
Yes, advance booking is recommended, especially in peak season.
A Realistic Hour-by-Hour Itinerary
08:00 AM – Arrival at Water Sports Complex
Complete formalities and board the boat.
09:00 AM – Reach Ross Island
Explore ruins, wildlife, and viewpoints.
11:00 AM – Transfer to North Bay Island
Enjoy the boat ride and sea views.
11:30 AM – 02:30 PM – North Bay Activities
Snorkeling, sea walk, scuba diving, or beach relaxation.
03:30–04:30 PM – Return to Port Blair
This pacing ensures comfort without rushing.
In short, a Ross Island and North Bay Island day trip is not just a checklist item—it is a story, a feeling, and an experience that captures the true spirit of Andaman. Don’t just visit; live the islands.
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