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?
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
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.
1. Snorkeling
2. Trekking
3. Scuba Diving
4. Glass Bottom Boat Ride
5. Sunbathing
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
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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions For Jolly Buoy Island Andaman
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Jolly Buoy Island from Port Blair?
Jolly Buoy Island is approximately 30 kilometers away from Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
How do you get to Jolly Buoy Island from Havelock?
Jolly Buoy Island is not directly accessible from Havelock Island. To visit Jolly Buoy from Havelock, you’ll need to return to Port Blair first and then follow the route to Wandoor Beach to reach Jolly Buoy Island.
What is Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman known for?
Jolly Buoy Island is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, vibrant marine life, lush tropical forests, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a popular destination for activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, trekking, and glass-bottom boat rides.
Are food and water available on Jolly Buoy Island?
No, food and water are not available on Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman. Visitors must carry their supplies, keeping in mind the island’s no-plastic policy. Ensure you pack reusable containers and bottles, as preserving the island’s clean environment is a top priority.
What are the rules and restrictions for visiting Jolly Buoy Island?
Visitors to Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman must follow strict rules. A no-plastic policy is enforced, permits are mandatory, and only a limited number of tourists are allowed daily. Activities like coral touching and littering are prohibited to preserve the island’s ecosystem.