PUBLIC ADVISORY
Important Guidelines for Snorkelling at Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach, Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
The Department of Tourism, Swaraj Dweep, has issued important guidelines regarding snorkelling activities at Elephant Beach to ensure visitor safety, proper conduct, and compliance with prescribed regulations.
What Visitors Need to Know
All snorkelling activities at Elephant Beach must be conducted only through authorised and registered Snorkelling Guides.
Visitors are advised to ensure that their guide has:
- ✅ A valid Snorkelling Guide Licence
- ✅ A valid LST Certificate
- ✅ Registration with the Department of Tourism
Important Restriction
Complimentary or free snorkelling cannot be offered as part of any boat trip or tour package.
Boat operators are also not permitted to directly undertake, conduct, or interfere with snorkelling activities.
Visitors should not participate in snorkelling activities through anyone who cannot provide the prescribed valid documents.
Why This Matters
These guidelines have been issued to promote:
Visitor Safety • Responsible Tourism • Properly Trained Guides • Regulatory Compliance
Any violation, misconduct, or nuisance may lead to strict departmental action, including restriction or suspension of operations and, where warranted, restriction from operating at Elephant Beach.
Travel Responsibly
If you are planning to experience the beautiful underwater world of Elephant Beach, please choose an authorised Snorkelling Guide and follow all safety and tourism regulations.
Your safety and the protection of Andaman's marine environment come first.
Issued in reference to the circular from the Office of the In-Charge, Department of Tourism, Swaraj Dweep, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, dated 10 September 2026.
