Asia Pacific Superyachts (APS) Andaman Islands is excited to share news with Yacht/ Superyacht Owners and Captains that the Port Blair Sea Port is now a designated entry port for e-visa holders!
This news is going to be a game-changer for yachts, superyachts and cruise tourism in the Andaman Islands, the new designation will have a significant impact for those looking to cruise the clear waters of the Andaman Seas enchanting islands. “The enormous benefit of this change came into place due to Asia Pacific Superyachts India’s request and continuous follow-up for Port Blair to be an entry port for e-visa holders”, reports APS Andaman Islands director, Mr. R. Rathnam.
“In the past the Indian Embassy in South East Asia would issue visas for the residents and nationals of that particular country. All others would have to apply for a visa in their home country, which was not possible for many yachts and they were skipping visiting the Andamans”, Rathnam noted.
“In the past, to apply for the regular visa one would have to complete the form online and visit the visa application centre with an appointment, and submit the passport for at least 5 days. This involved a lot of expenses, time and other hassles. Moreover, with the passport at the embassy, it was not possible for the applicant to travel anywhere else, creating a frustrating experience. Now you can visit the official website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in and go through the online 4-step application process, after which the e-visa status is communicated by email within 72 hours. You can then enter Port Blair with a copy of the approval.”
International luxury yacht visitors will find miles of seclusion; drift diving over coral gardens, soft sandy beaches and pure blue waters with a temperature of 28º with cool nights and good sailing winds. A paradise of anchorage options awaits in an adventure journey that opens onto a secret world of tropical jungles, a wander through rare lush rainforests and serene, pristine beaches scattered throughout much of the Andaman Archipelago.
As the vessel’s procedures and paperwork are completed under the eagle eye of the director and his APS team visitors can enjoy unique sites and wonderful activities in and around Port Blair, a port steeped in British tradition and holding many delights. APS will tailor an itinerary in advance, drawing on extensive knowledge that includes advice on navigational hazards and berthing/ anchoring along with options for quality accommodation, special island visits, vehicle hire, air travel and helicopter transport.
At the heart of a visit is to experience the natural beauty of the Andaman Islands Archipelago, situated more than 1000km off the east coast in the middle of the Bay of Bengal. The archipelago is thickly covered by the deep green tropical forest supporting a profusion of wildlife that includes some extremely rare species of birds. The archipelago’s principal attractions are the beaches, exploring, and diving & snorkeling in the pristine reefs that ring most of the islands.