The seas around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are some of the almost absolutely unspoiled. Marine life is abundant, with an estimated 750 species of fish existing on one reef alone. Parrot, trigger and angel fish live alongside manta rays, reef sharks and loggerhead turtles. Many species of fish and coral are unique to the area and fascinating life-systems exist in ash beds and cooled lava based around the volcanic Barren Island.

For a quick taste of marine life, the adventure lovers could start by snorkeling. Most of the hotels here can supply masks and snorkels. The only way to get really close, however, and venture out into deeper waters, is to scuba dive. The experience of weaving in and out of coral beds, coming eye to eye with fish or swimming with dolphins and barracudas is unforgettable.

Underwater in the Andamans, it is not uncommon to come across schools of reef sharks, which rarely turn hostile. But one thing to watch out for and avoid is the black and white sea snake. Though the snakes seldom attack, their fangs are at the back of their mouths. Their bite is 20 times more deadly than that of the cobra.

However there are certain tips that the adventure tourists must follow to keep the marine life hale and hearty. The living coral should never be touched or walked upon. One should never step on the reefs while wearing the fins. While diving the speed of the descent needs to be controlled. Otherwise enormous damage can be caused by divers` landing hard on a coral bed. Finally the corals should never be broken from a reef and it is illegal to export dead coral from the islands.

Most hotels and tour operators in Port Blair propose one-day picnics, scuba-diving and snorkeling trips to Bird, Grub, Jolly Boy, Red Skin and Snob Islands as well as an overnight excursion to Cinque Island that includes a small trek through the forest offering much scope for bird watching.