Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy Island is one of the most visited destinations in the Andaman Islands. The island offers an amazing coral reef experience that is unparalleled in other parts of the region. Jolly Buoy comes under the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, requiring permits and tickets for entry. Prior booking is a must for a trip to Jolly Buoy Island, which is considered one of the best trips in the Andaman Islands.
How To Reach Jolly Buoy Island
To reach Jolly Buoy, first, you need to get to Wandoor Jetty, approximately 30 km from Port Blair's main city. You should start early, around 7 AM, to catch the boat from Wandoor to Jolly Buoy.
From Wandoor Jetty, boats take around 40 minutes to reach Jolly Buoy Island.
Once at Jolly Buoy Island, you must avail a Glass Bottom Boat ride at an additional cost. This is usually not included in the ticket price, but it is highly recommended for a mesmerizing coral reef experience.
The cost of the glass boat ride varies based on duration—options range from 15 minutes to 1 hour. We recommend opting for the longest duration for the best experience. Water visibility is usually excellent, though it depends on the weather.
How to Get Permits to Jolly Buoy?
Permits for Jolly Buoy Island are issued one day before the tour date and must be obtained from the Tourism Office in Port Blair. A valid photo ID is required for issuance. If needed, your travel advisor can arrange the permits for you. Contact us for assistance in booking the permit and tickets, or book the Jolly Buoy trip online.
Timings to Visit Jolly Buoy
The route to Jolly Buoy is the same as the one leading to Red Skin Island, both of which are part of the Mahatma Gandhi National Park. The usual departure time from Wandoor Beach is between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, so visitors should reach Wandoor Beach by 8:00 AM. All ships leave and return at the same time.
Things to Note
Jolly Buoy is a No Plastic Zone. Visitors must submit all plastic items at Wandoor Jetty before entering the island. Plastic bottles are not allowed on the island.
Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking underwater coral views through a glass-bottom boat. However, snorkeling is not permitted at Jolly Buoy Island. As part of the standard trip, visitors are taken on a ride while transferring to the island and shown underwater corals via a glass-bottom boat.
For those wanting an extended coral-viewing experience, private boat hires are available for 30 to 60 minutes at an additional cost.
There are no proper changing rooms on Jolly Buoy Island, especially for women and children. Visitors should take care of their belongings while enjoying the sea. Eco huts are available for shelter during heavy rain.
Visitors can enjoy the island until around 2:00 PM, after which the return journey begins between 2:00 and 2:30 PM.
Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands are opened alternately every six months to protect the live corals. If you are planning to visit, ensure that Jolly Buoy Island is open during your travel dates. When Jolly Buoy is closed, Red Skin Island is typically open for visitors.
