Jolly Buoy (Port Blair)

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Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Port Blair View on Map
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About Jolly Buoy Island

Jolly Buoy, a little slice of paradise in the Andamans, is truly a feast for the eyes. 

It is an island surrounded by sparkling hues of blue, glistening white sands and brightly colored corals that make for a picture perfect day trip. 

Part of the 15 islands in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island is one of the two that is open to tourists. The other one is Red Skin Island, which lies adjacent to Jolly Buoy.

Living up to its name and spirit, Jolly Buoy likes to stay squeaky clean, unpolluted and jolly. It follows a very strict No Plastic Policy that keeps the island litter-free, unlike other beaches. 

The island is preserved in its pristine form with just a limited number of tourists allowed on it at one time. This means you will be able to experience a quieter beach atmosphere, as you unwind and experience its beauty.

What to expect from Jolly Buoy Island?

Getting to Jolly Buoy is enchanting in itself! You’ll hop on a boat that takes you through beautiful sights like plush mangroves and tropical rainforests.

Once you reach the island, you will immediately want to soak in the sweet serenity all around. You can relax by the beach, have the gentle waves tickle your toes and explore the mysterious world of coral reefs underwater.

Jolly Buoy is also a popular spot for water sports and it sure is as exciting as it sounds! 

Highlights of Jolly Buoy Island

1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving:

Jolly Buoy is a great location with shallow and crystal clear waters which makes snorkeling/scuba diving a mind-blowing experience. The dazzling colorful marine flora and fauna here are nothing short of extraordinary.

Snorkeling at Jolly Buoy will cost you around 500/- per person and is definitely worth the experience.

2. Glass-bottom Boat ride:

You can enjoy a panoramic view of the corals on a boat with a glass bottom. It is a very popular and convenient activity as it doesn’t require you to get inside the water. 

Glass-Bottom Boat Ride will cost you around 995/- per person, and is a great experience for those who don’t wish to get into the water.

How To Reach Jolly Buoy Island?

  1. Jolly Buoy can be reached via boat from Wandoor Jetty. It is an island located within the Mahatma Gandhi National Park.
  2. Wandoor is a 25kms (45 minutes) drive from central Port Blair. 
  3. Rented taxis, 2-wheelers or auto-rickshaws are the most convenient options for travel. Buses ply to and fro but timings may be unpredictable. 
  4. From Wandoor, you must take a shared boat (35 minutes) to reach Jolly Buoy Island. The boat waits for you at Jolly Buoy and brings you back.
  5. It is suggested that you book a cab to and from Port Blair as it’s difficult to find rentals from Wandoor. Bookings can be made via your hotel travel desk, at the airport, or via www.go2andaman.com.

Useful Tips For Your Visit to Jolly Buoy

  1. Jolly Buoy remains closed on Mondays.
  2. Visitors are not allowed to carry any plastic items on to Jolly Buoy. 
  3. No shacks or food stalls are available on Jolly Buoy, make sure to carry snacks and water.
  4. You can only reach Jolly Buoy via boat from Wandoor.
  5. It opens only for 6 months in a year. When Jolly Buoy Island closes, Red Skin Island opens up. At any time of the year either one of them remains accessible. 
  6. There is no accommodation available to stay overnight on the island.

Go2Andaman Tips

  1. Make sure that you have your Jolly Buoy Island permit ready at least one day in advance to avoid any last minute hassle.
  2. To get to the island, we would suggest starting as early as possible to avoid the afternoon heat and big crowds. 

Visitors Information

Ticket Cost

INR 1100

Timings

8 am to 3 pm

Closed on

Mondays

Extra Cost

N/A

Address

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Wandoor, Port blair

Best Time to Visit

November to April

FAQs About Jolly Buoy Island

  • 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.

  • Are there restaurants on the Island?

    There are no eateries on the island. So, we recommend you to pack your picnic baskets with some snacks & food.

  • 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.

  • Is the island open throughout the year?

    No, the island is only open for 6 months in a year.

  • Can you do snorkeling all by yourself in Jolly Buoy?

    No, snorkeling by yourself is not allowed without the required permit.

Tickets & Guided Tours
  • Buy Jolly Buoy Entry Tickets
  • Book Guided Tours of Jolly Buoy
  • Book Sightseeing Tour of Port Blair

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