Imagine a tiny, secluded island surrounded by the sparkling blue ocean, soft white sand, and colorful coral reefs. This is the Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman, a must-visit destination in your Andaman Tour Package.Part of the 15 islands that form the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island, and the nearby Red Skin Island are the only two open to tourists which are the best places to visit in Jolly Buoy Island. The island’s unspoiled charm is well-preserved thanks to strict regulations enforced by the Andaman administration.
Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman is special because it maintains a strict no-plastic policy, ensuring the island stays clean and unpolluted compared to other beaches of Andaman. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed at a time, making it a peaceful, quiet escape from the crowds.
The island is not just about beaches—it’s a biodiversity hotspot. The colorful coral reefs surrounding Jolly Buoy Island are home to rich marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. On land, mangrove swamps, tropical rainforests, and wildflowers along the shore create a postcard-perfect landscape.
Whether you want to sunbathe on the beach, snorkel to explore the corals or hike through the forest, Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman offers something for everyone. The island’s untouched beauty and environment make it perfect for nature lovers, offbeat Place travelers, and adventure seekers.
If you’re planning a trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, don’t miss the chance to experience the magical beauty of Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman. It’s an escape into nature that you’ll remember forever!
How To Reach Jolly Buoy Island?
The Jolly Buoy Island is located approximately 30 Km south of Wandoor Beach and falls under the Mahatma Gandhi National Park in Andaman. Reaching this island is an adventure in itself as you will be cruising through the pristine blue ocean water.To reach Jolly Buoy Island, you have to plan effectively as this island is only accessible by boat. Here’s how you can reach the island.
- By Airways: The nearest airport to Jolly Buoy Island is Veer Sawarkar International Airport, which is approximately 30 km away from this island. This airport in Port Blair has connectivity to many major Indian Cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. Upon reaching the airport, you will have to take a taxi or bus to the Wandoor Jetty, from where you can board your boat to the Jolly Buoy Island.
- By Road: Once you reach Port Blair, you’ll first need to get to Wandoor Beach, which is approximately 30 kilometers (a 45-minute drive) from central Port Blair. Your transportation options include rented taxis, 2-wheelers, or auto-rickshaws, with taxis being the most convenient choice. While buses do operate to and fro, their timings can be unpredictable. Buses are available at an interval of 1 hour from any bus stand going through Bathubasti. You need to start early around 7 AM to be able to take the boat to Jolly Buoy from Wandoor.
- By Waterways: Once you arrive at Wandoor Beach, you’ll board a shared boat for the 35-minute journey to Jolly Buoy Island. You can book these boats at the cluster of boat offices at Wandoor Beach. Some operators do provide complimentary 10 mins of snorkeling sessions around the island, which requires you to show a govt. ID card. So, don’t forget to carry your ID card and ask for the complimentary service.
The same boat will bring you back, so it’s essential to book a return ticket in advance. Don’t worry about the boat wait; it’ll be ready and waiting for your return journey.
It’s important to note that a permit is required to visit Jolly Buoy Island, with different permit fees for Indian and foreign visitors. These permits are usually available a day before your trip, or if you’ve booked a tour package, your tour operator will provide them.
- Jolly Buoy Island Ferry Cost: INR 850 including permit charges
- Jolly Buoy Island Entry Ticket: The permit fee cost to visit Jolly Buoy Island is INR 50 for Indians and INR 500 for foreigners.
So, pack your sunscreen, snorkeling gear, and camera, and embark on this exciting journey to Jolly Buoy Island to experience its stunning natural beauty and colorful marine life.
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Things To Do At Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy Island is home to one of the largest and most diverse coral populations in Andaman, which sustains one of the richest biological diversity in the islands. The abundance of coral species on the island is a result of the government’s efforts to protect and conserve marine life.Coral reefs on this island are home to some of the world’s most colorful and beautiful fish, making it an ideal destination for adventure-seekers. Here are some of the best things to do at Jolly Buoy Island which allows you to fully immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty and colourful marine life.
Snorkelling is one of the best water sports in Andaman if you have a fear of diving into deep waters. Float on the crystal-clear waters and get a chance to marvel at the amazing coral reefs unique to Jolly Buoy Island. The colorful coral life and diverse marine species make this a must-try activity. The cost for snorkeling at Andaman’s Jolly Buoy Island is approximately INR 500, which includes the snorkeling gear and the guidance of an experienced expert.Despite its small size, the island has a dense tropical forest that covers 70% of its area. You can embark on a trekking adventure with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy the lush greenery and the island’s unique terrain during your trekking experience. It’s a chance to connect with nature and savor the serenity of the island. The trekking experience can range from INR 800 to INR 1,200, depending on the duration and guide services.Discover the underwater wonders of Jolly Buoy Island with scuba diving in Andaman. Witness the rich marine biodiversity and the colorful coral gardens that make this destination truly exceptional. The cost of scuba diving at Jolly Buoy Island typically starts at around INR 3,000, covering the essential equipment, expert guidance, and the thrill of exploring the deep sea.4. Glass Bottom Boat Ride
If you prefer to stay dry while still getting a glimpse of the underwater world, the glass bottom boat ride offers a unique perspective. You can witness the marine life through the clear bottom of the boat. The cost for a glass bottom boat ride is approximately INR 1,000 per person. It’s a fascinating way to explore the ocean’s mysteries without getting wet.Relax and unwind on the pristine beaches of Jolly Buoy Island. Soak in the sun, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Sunbathing is a free activity, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of the island at no extra cost. Take your time, bring a good book, and relish the calmness of this idyllic spot.Jolly Buoy Island is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, and the conservation efforts have made it a haven for marine life. While each activity comes with its own cost, the memories and experiences you gather here are truly priceless. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Jolly Buoy Island has something exceptional to offer.
Best Time To Visit Jolly Buoy Island
The best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island is during the dry season, from October to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the waters are calm, making it ideal for water activities like snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides.It’s important to note the Jolly Buoy Island opening months. The island is typically open to tourists from November to May. It remains closed during the monsoon season (June to October) to protect its delicate ecosystem and ensure visitor safety.
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Jolly Buoy Island Timings and Ferry Schedule
To make the most of your visit, it’s essential to know the Jolly Buoy Island timings and ferry schedule:- Ferry Timings: Ferries to Jolly Buoy Island usually depart from Wandoor Beach in the morning between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM. The return ferry leaves the island around 2:00 PM. Knowing the Jolly Buoy Island ferry timings is crucial to plan your day efficiently.
- Visiting Hours: Visitors are allowed to stay on the island for a limited time to preserve its natural beauty.
Also Read: 5 Cruises To Andaman From India Loved By Travellers
Water Sports in Jolly Buoy Island
One of the highlights of visiting Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman is the variety of water sports available. The island’s clear waters and colorful marine life make it a haven for adventure enthusiasts.- Snorkeling:Snorkeling is a must-try activity on Jolly Buoy Island. The underwater world here is teeming with colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and other marine creatures. The clear waters make it easy to enjoy the beauty of this underwater paradise.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Rides:If you’re not comfortable getting into the water, glass-bottom boat rides are a great alternative. These boats have transparent floors, allowing you to view the colorful marine life and coral reefs without getting wet.
- Swimming:The calm, shallow waters around the island are perfect for swimming. It’s a great way to cool off while enjoying the serene surroundings.
- Underwater Photography:For those who love capturing memories, underwater photography is another exciting activity and a top photography spot on Jolly Buoy Island. The colorful colors of the corals and fish make for stunning photos.
Places to Stay in Jolly Buoy Island
While there are no accommodations directly on the island, there are plenty of hotels near Jolly Buoy Island:- Hotels in Port Blair:Port Blair offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Staying here allows you to explore other attractions in the Andamans as well.
- Wandoor Beach Resorts:Staying near Wandoor Beach is a convenient option if you want to be closer to the ferry point. There are several cozy resorts and guesthouses in this area.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodations:For nature lovers, some eco-friendly stays near the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park provide a unique and sustainable experience.
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Things To Know Before Visiting the Jolly Buoy Island
Before embarking on your journey to Jolly Buoy Island, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here are some travel tips for Jolly Buoy Island to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:- Jolly Buoy Island remains closed on Mondays. No ferries operate on the island on Mondays. So plan accordingly.
- The only way to get to Jolly Buoy from Wandoor is by boat. Due to the high demand, it is always recommended to book the ferries in advance.
- The boats to Jolly Buoy Island depart from Wandoor between 8 AM to 9 AM and the return journey starts between 2 PM to 2:30 PM, after which the island is closed to civilians.
- You will need permission from the forest department to Snorkel near the island if you are planning to do it by yourself.
- Remember that Jolly Buoy Island is a plastic-free zone. You are not allowed to carry any plastic items to the island. You will be asked to list every plastic item you are taking to the island by the forest department. Make sure you bring back all the plastic and dispose of it at the correct place.
- There are small eco-huts on the island, where you can take shelter in the monsoon. But it is advised to carry an umbrella, as these eco-huts may not be sufficient for everyone.
- There are absolutely no facilities on the island. So, it is essential to carry a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, medicine, power banks, extra clothes, and insect repellent as there is no accessibility to all these things on the island.
- Most of the tourists take a day trip to Jolly Buoy Island, as there is no accommodation on the island.
- There are no food stalls on the island, thus it is advised to carry some snacks.
- Sometimes, the water level may drop and corals may come back to the surface. During this time, it is recommended to avoid going into the water as it may harm the coral and injure you.
- Make sure you don’t carry any shells, corals, or other underwater things, before obtaining prior permission from the government.
- Mobile networks such as Airtel/Vodafone work best on the island of Jolly Buoy, so ensure you have a SIM card for one or the other of these networks.
- There is no proper place for changing on the island, especially for the ladies. So make sure you carry your arrangements, if you are planning to indulge in snorkeling and scuba diving, where you will get wet and require to change.
- Don’t forget to take care of your stuff while you’re out on the water. Have someone with you to look after your stuff.
Jolly Buoy Island is not just a destination; it’s an experience. From its untouched beauty to its colorful underwater world, the island offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a connection with nature, this island will leave you in awe.
Plan your trip during the best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island, arrange your Jolly Buoy Island permit, and don’t forget to check the Jolly Buoy Island ferry timings for a hassle-free experience. Once you step foot on this beautiful island, you’ll understand why it’s considered one of the treasures of the Andaman Islands.
