Snorkeling at Red Skin Island
Experience vibrant shallow reefs, clear waters and abundant tropical fish at Red Skin Island, one of the accessible snorkeling spots inside Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park near Wandoor/Port Blair. This is a protected marine area with calm, shallow reefs that are excellent for first-time snorkelers and those who want an easy, wildlife-rich snorkel close to Port Blair. Boat transfers are usually from Wandoor or a nearby jetty and include guides, basic gear and a short briefing.
Location
Red Skin (Redskin) Island, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Wandoor / Port Blair area, South Andaman, India
Duration
Approximately 3–5 hours total (boat transfer + two short snorkeling sessions of ~30–45 minutes each).
Best Time to Visit
November to April (dry season) — calm sea, best underwater visibility, minimal rain. Avoid the monsoon months (May–September) due to rough seas and restricted park operations.
Pricing
Approximate cost: INR 1,200–3,000 per person (group tours/seasonal operators vary). Typical packages include boat transfer, snorkel gear and guide. Additional: MGNMP entry/permit and forest department fees (usually a small extra charge), and occasional glass-bottom boat options cost extra. Prices fluctuate by season and operator — book through a licensed operator and confirm the permit is included.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Shallow coral gardens with easy access from the boat or small beach
High likelihood to see colorful reef fish, small rays and nudibranchs
Clear water with good visibility (often 8–20 m in ideal conditions)
Suitable for beginners and families — guided snorkel sessions and life jackets provided
Part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park — a protected area with regulated visitor numbers
Option for glass-bottom boat viewing if you prefer not to enter the water
Itinerary
Pickup from Port Blair/Wandoor jetty and transfer to boat
Operators will check permits/IDs and provide a short safety briefing. Arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Boat ride to Red Skin Island
Short cruise; spot small islets and coastal scenery. Keep belongings dry or in provided waterproof bags.
First guided snorkeling session
Life jackets and masks/snorkels provided. Stay with the guide, follow entry/exit points, and avoid touching corals.
Rest on boat or small beach/reef flat
Hydrate, snack, and reapply reef-safe sunscreen. Optional glass-bottom boat viewing if offered.
Second snorkeling session (different reef patch)
Opportunity for more sightings and photography. Guides may point out key species.
Return to jetty and drop-off
Return time depends on operator and tides. Collect belongings and receipts/permits.
Safety Requirements
Wear a life jacket at all times while on the boat and when snorkeling unless instructed otherwise by the guide
Attend the pre-snorkel briefing and follow guide instructions
Do not touch, stand on or collect coral — corals are fragile and protected
Use reef-safe sunscreen (no oxybenzone/oxybenzone-containing lotions) or wear a rash guard to reduce sunscreen use
Not recommended for people with serious respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, recent ear surgery or severe mobility issues — disclose medical conditions to the operator
Avoid alcohol before snorkeling and stay hydrated
Check weather and sea conditions — operators will cancel if conditions are unsafe
Tips
Book with a licensed operator that includes the MGNMP permit in the price — the forest department requires visitor permits in the park
Bring: swimwear, quick-dry towel, spare clothes, waterproof camera or GoPro, small dry bag and cash for permits/tips
Morning trips often give the best visibility and calmer water
Travel light — most boats have limited storage and shade
Respect wildlife: observe but do not chase, feed or touch fish and other creatures
If you are a beginner, choose a guided snorkel and request shallow, sheltered areas
Carry sea-sickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness
Environment reminder: take all waste back with you — no single-use plastics on beaches or in the park
