The Banana Boat Ride is one of the most exciting and enjoyable water activities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is a group adventure where riders sit on a large inflatable banana-shaped boat pulled by a speedboat.
It is especially popular with families, couples, friends and groups looking for a fun and exciting water adventure. The activity normally includes a safety briefing and life jackets. Exact duration, pricing and operating rules depend on the location and operator.
A banana boat is a large inflatable tube shaped somewhat like a banana. Several riders sit astride the inflatable while a powerful speedboat pulls it rapidly through the sea.
The speedboat creates sharp turns and waves, making the inflatable bounce across the water, and occasionally throwing riders into the sea (which is part of the fun!). It is designed mainly as an accessible group activity and does not require advanced water-sports skills.
North Bay Island is one of the primary water-sports destinations near Port Blair. Visitors can enjoy the banana boat ride along with scuba diving and sea walking. Access is via a short ferry ride from the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex.
Elephant Beach is the water-activity hub of Swaraj Dweep. Banana boat rides here are highly popular. You can reach the beach via a short speedboat ride from Havelock jetty or by trekking through the jungle.
➜ Swaraj Dweep / Havelock Guide
Prices vary slightly depending on the exact location, season, duration, and the specific boat operator. As a planning baseline, travelers can expect to pay around ₹500 to ₹1,000 per person.
| Location | Approx. Price Per Person | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| North Bay Island (Port Blair) | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | 10–20 minutes |
| Elephant Beach (Havelock) | ₹600 – ₹1,000 | 10–20 minutes |
| Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex | ₹500 – ₹800 | 10–15 minutes |
Note: Prices are indicative. Boat transfers to North Bay or Elephant Beach, environmental fees, or photography charges are generally separate.
The operator explains basic safety instructions, how to hold on, and what to do if you fall into the water.
All riders must wear the provided, correctly-sized life jacket before stepping into the water or onto the boat.
Riders sit straddling the inflatable banana and hold the designated safety handles securely.
The speedboat pulls the inflatable through the waves. Prepare for splashes, sharp turns, and a lot of laughing.
Banana Boat Rides are suitable for families, couples, groups of friends, and first-time adventure travelers. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a short, thrilling activity that doesn't require training.
Swimming ability is NOT required. All participants are fitted with buoyant life jackets, and rescue personnel are actively supervising on the towing speedboat. However, because the activity takes place in open water and you may be tipped into the sea, participants should be comfortable with water and sudden splashing.
Always follow the operator's instructions. Pregnant women, individuals with severe back or heart conditions, and very young children (usually below 7-10 years, depending on the operator) are generally restricted from participating due to the bumpy nature of the ride.
Add the Banana Boat Ride and other exciting water sports to your customized Andaman holiday package. Let us handle the bookings so you can focus on the fun.