Cinque Island

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Clear reefs, turquoise water and one of the Andamans' most untouched islands.

Type

Offbeat

Suggested stay

Full-day excursion

Access

Permit, boat

Best time

November to April, when seas are calm and clear.

Overview

Cinque Island is one of the most beautiful yet least visited islands in the Andamans, prized for crystal clear water, rich coral reefs, and white sand beaches that see only a fraction of the footfall of Havelock or Neil Island throughout the year. Very few tour operators run trips out here regularly.

Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, access is tightly controlled and usually requires permits along with an authorised boat operator, since the surrounding reef is actively protected. The island has no accommodation, shops, or permanent settlement, so every visit is a full day trip that begins and ends elsewhere, typically at Wandoor or a nearby island stop. Travellers who make it out here rank it among the clearest water anywhere, and the trip rewards those willing to plan carefully around weather and permit availability well ahead of their actual travel dates.

What to see and do

Crystal-clear waters

Among the clearest waters found anywhere in the Andaman Islands, with excellent underwater visibility.

Colourful coral reefs

Home to healthy coral gardens and a wide diversity of tropical marine life species.

Snorkelling & diving

One of the finest locations in the Andamans for serious underwater exploration and photography.

Untouched beaches

Quiet white-sand beaches here have virtually no commercial development or permanent structures nearby.

How to reach

Authorised charter boat or approved tour operator from Wandoor, subject to weather and permit availability.

Good to know

Visits depend heavily on weather, permits, and current Forest Department regulations for the season.
Carry drinking water, snacks, and sun protection with you since there are no facilities.
Avoid touching corals or otherwise disturbing marine life while snorkelling around the island.