About the Activity
Famous for its exclusive living corals, Jolly Buoy Island is one of the 15 islands in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park of which only two are open for tourists- Jolly Buoy and Red Skin. This is a half day trip that begins at 7:30 am and concludes by 02:00 pm. You can swim and you can enjoy the glass-bottom boat ride all you want!
While most of the reefs have dead corals, Jolly Buoy has a majority of living corals. What’s interesting is that 70% of the Island is covered with dense jungle yet, there are no Coconut or Palm trees. Surprising, isn’t it? Jolly Buoy presents one of the cleanest beaches as it is a preserved area and designated as a no-plastic zone. You’re supposed to get your belongings checked before boarding the ferry, to make sure that no tourist carries plastic in order to ensure cleanliness. Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Island, open up for tourists alternatively, every 6 months.
As of 15/05/2025, Jolly Buoy Island is temporarily closed for seasonal conservation of its corals and natural environment. Instead, you can visit Red Skin Island, which is also part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
Reasons to Book this Activity
- Jolly Buoy being a reserved and secluded island, you get to escape the chaos of civilization.
- Witness the protected areas and get to know how they’re different from normal islands.
- The waters here are clear and refreshing so swimming and snorkeling are a must in these shades of blue!
- Jolly Buoy is one of the accessible islands that has a wide variety of living corals.
- For anyone who doesn’t want to or can’t get into the waters, the glass- bottom boat rides are a great option to see the underwater marine life.
Full Schedule
You send us your dates, passenger details and Aadhar Card/ Govt issued ID and acquire tickets. Confirmation will be done 24 hours before the trip date.
Pickup from the Hotel at 6:00 am.
Our driver will drive you to the Wandoor Jetty. Depending on the location of your hotel, reach Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Wandoor in about an hour.
Hop on a boat ride to Jolly Buoy. Takes 55 minutes to reach the islet.
Explore Jolly Buoy for 3 hrs.
Hop on for another 55 minute boat ride to Wandoor jetty.
Enjoy a 30-minute complimentary visit to Wandoor Beach
Our driver will drop you off at the hotel by 3.30 pm.
Basic Information
- Tickets and permits cost INR 1275 per person for Indian tourists.
- Tickets and permits cost INR 2800 per person for foreign tourists.
- Transfers (pickup and drop) for up to 5 people in a single car are available at INR 2,700.
- Car (Ertiga/Scorpio/Tavera/Similar) with a driver is provided.
- If you have your own transport to reach Wandoor Jetty, you can purchase just the tickets and permits for INR 1,275.
- You can purchase tickets for glass-bottom boat rides at Jolly Buoy Island for an additional cost.
- Since it’s a protected area and a no-plastic zone, make sure to bring along non-plastic water bottles.
- Remember, throwing any trash or plastic items is a big no-no.
What is Included
- Permit by Forest Department
- Ferry Tickets
- Pickup and Drop
What is Excluded
- Snorkeling Gear
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation upto 48 hours before the starting time of the activity.
- Free rescheduling upto 48 hours before the starting time of the activity.
- Once the tickets and permits are issued by the Forest Department, the trip cannot be cancelled, refunded, or rescheduled.
FAQ’s
-
Should you pre- book boats to visit Jolly Buoy?
Yes, it is advisable to pre-book boats with a travel agency because the demand can be really high at times.
-
How to reach Jolly Buoy from Port Blair?
You can take a cab from Port Blair to Wandoor Beach. From there, you can hop on a boat and get to Jolly Buoy.
-
How long can you stay at Jolly Buoy Island?
You can stay at Jolly Buoy all day from 9 am to 5 pm.
-
Can you do snorkeling all by yourself in Jolly Buoy?
No, snorkeling by yourself is not allowed without the required permit.
