Cinque Island,Andaman
Cinque Island is a small, uninhabited island in the South Andaman group, part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Its primary importance is natural: the island and surrounding waters protect rich coral reef ecosystems, diverse marine life (including reef fishes, turtles, rays, and occasional pelagics), and serve as a popular site for snorkeling and diving. The island contributes to regional biodiversity and conservation efforts in the Andaman archipelago.
Places to visit
- Vibrant fringing coral reefs and snorkeling sites
- Clear turquoise waters with excellent visibility for underwater viewing
- Scuba diving wall dives and drop-offs popular with experienced divers
- Secluded sandbanks and small beaches for brief stops and photography
- Frequent sightings of marine life: sea turtles, reef fish, rays
Unique Aspects
- Uninhabited and relatively remote — low human impact
- Part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (protected area)
- Outstanding underwater visibility (often 10–30 m) and healthy coral formations
- Wall dives and channels that attract pelagic species at times
Things to do
- Snorkeling over shallow reefs (most popular activity)
- Scuba diving (guided dives for certified divers)
- Glass-bottom boat rides and underwater photography
- Wildlife watching from the boat (turtles, rays, seabirds)
- Short beach walks and nature photography (day-trip stops only)
Best Time to Visit
Best time: October to May (post-monsoon and winter months offer calm seas and clear visibility).
Weather Conditions
Tropical maritime climate: warm year-round with high humidity. Monsoon season (June–September) brings heavy rain, rough seas, and frequent closures; October–May is drier and more suitable for sea travel.
Accessibility
Access is by boat only (no commercial ferry). Most trips depart from Wandoor or Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport is the nearest airport). Boat time varies by craft and sea conditions — commonly 1.5–3 hours one way from Port Blair/Wandoor depending on route and stops. Only licensed tour operators and authorized permits permit landings and snorkeling/diving near the island.
Recommended Duration
Half-day to full-day (most visitors take a full-day excursion from Port Blair or Wandoor that includes snorkeling/diving and travel time).
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, quick-dry clothing, swimwear, rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, water shoes. Bring your own snorkel mask if preferred (many operators provide gear). Waterproof camera or action camera recommended for underwater photos.
Local Food & Souvenirs
There are no services on the island — bring water and snacks on the boat. For local foods and souvenirs, return to Port Blair or Wandoor: try Andaman seafood specialties, coconut-based dishes, and buy locally made handicrafts or honey (ensure souvenirs comply with regulations). Avoid collecting shells or corals — taking natural items is illegal and harmful to ecosystems.
