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How to Reach, Things to Do, and Planning Tips
Table of Contents:
Located approximately 30 KM from the Wandoor Beach, Jolly Buoy Island is a very small islant in South Andaman that comes under the Mahatma Gandhi National Park’s Marine Sanctuary along with Red Skin Island, which is a preserved area, protected by the Andaman Administration.
Although there are no palm or coconut trees here, the Jolly buoy features a small yet dense tropical forest that covers 70% of the island and can be easily trekked through with the help of a guide. Unlike other islands in the region, Jolly Buoy offers a unique terrain and flora, making it a distinctive trekking destination.
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The beach is only present at one side of the island while other sides open up to a cliff that ends in water, which is why it is not advised to stand near the edge of the jungle. Jolly Buoy is renowned for its beautiful beach, serene beaches, and pristine white sandy beaches, all of which contribute to its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.
As it is a protected area, the complete island is a no plastic zone and visitors are required to submit the list of all plastic items they are taking with them. Carrying plastic bags is strictly prohibited, and it is important not to bring plastic bags to the island to help preserve the marine ecosystem and adhere to eco-friendly guidelines. It is not allowed to leave any plastic or other belongings in the island because it might affect the biodiversity.
Due to all these efforts, it has the densest and unique coral population in Andaman that supports one of the most richest biodiversity in the isles. Wide variety of coral species houses some of the most vibrant and beautiful fishes that are waiting to be explored by adventure lovers.
The island is famous for its colorful coral reefs, colorful corals, and underwater corals, which are home to rich marine life that can be observed while snorkeling or on glass-bottom boat rides.
The waters near the Jolly Buoy beach is extremely shallow and clear, which allows for a clear view of the sea bottom and all the underwater dwellers.
Sometimes during low tide, the water becomes so shallow that the corals are almost out of the water, and Snorkeling is restricted at that time. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere while exploring the island's natural environment and biodiversity.
But no need to worry about that, there are plenty of rental boats available at the island who will take you deeper into the sea for a great experience.
If you are planning for some water sports at Jolly Buoy, you’ll need to book a boat from the Wandoor Beach by visiting the booth near the Jetty.
Usually, 10-15 minutes of snorkeling is provided free and can be easily extended by asking the provider. Jolly Buoy is an ideal destination for underwater exploration, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Here are the available activities on the island:
What do you need for a best Snorkeling experience? A great location with shallow and crystal clear waters.
Jolly Buoy has one of the most clear and shallow waters in Andaman which is filled with a wide variety of live corals that houses hoards of colorful fishes, waiting to be explored. This makes the island a perfect destination for snorkeling in Andaman.
Glass Bottom Boat Ride is more popular in Jolly Buoy than any other activity, mainly because it doesn’t require you to go into the water and get wet and therefore is more convenient, especially because there are no places to change your clothes at Jolly Buoy.
As the name suggests, the glass bottom boats have a bottom made of transparent and extremely thick, tough glass that lets you indulge yourself in the magnificent underwater world from the comfort of your cabin. The glass bottom boat acts as a snorkeling glass, allowing visitors to observe marine life and corals without getting wet.
The boat takes you through the well known dense coral belts that have always been populated with a wide variety of marine life and lets you gaze at some of the most vibrant and beautiful collection of reefs and their inhabitants.
The whole ride takes around 15-30 minutes to complete depending on the type of pricing selected. You can also extend the time of your trip by making a request with the vendor.
You can easily take a cab and book every activity separately or book a complete trip to save more. The pricing is usually reduced up to 30% for larger groups.
To visit Jolly Buoy Island, ferry tickets are required and should be booked in advance due to limited availability. These tickets are essential for accessing the island and are often included in tour packages or can be arranged separately.
Here is the list of all the services and their prices: (To book and inquire, you can contact us.)
Reaching Jolly can get really complex if one doesn’t know where to start, the island is not connected by any roads and can be reached only by taking a boat. Boat services to Jolly Buoy Island depart from Wandoor Jetty, which is the main access point for visitors.
To reach Jolly Buoy from Port Blair, first you’ll have to take a bus or cab to the Wandoor Beach. Buses are available at an interval of 1 hour from any bus stand going through Bathubasti.
Cabs are also available to take you there, you can easily book one by contacting the right vendor. The beach itself is located 30 Kms from the airport and it takes around 1 hour to reach there.
Once you are at Wandoor Beach you can inquire about speed boats by taking a right from the cluster of shops till you see the board for boat offices.
Boat services operate on a schedule and offer a scenic experience during the trip to the island. If you need to do snorkeling by yourself you can get the permit by visiting the forest office and presenting your identity proof and passport.
Permits to visit Jolly Buoy Island can be obtained from the forest department office or the tourism office in Port Blair, which are the official points for issuing permits and providing updated information for visitors.
Once there you’ll embark on a 30 minute trip to the Jolly Buoy Island and enjoy your day. Make sure to book a return ticket as there are no vendors there.
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If you are planning your Andaman itinerary, make sure to visit Jolly Buoy Island for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.
You can easily plan a trip to Jolly Buoy by gathering three important permissions and tickets:
The best time to visit Jolly Buoy from November to April.
You can only visit during the opening months to be precise and the Island opens in alternate intervals with Red Skin Island. This is because the island is only open for 6 months, which is totally done by the permission of the Andaman Administration. Hence no exact time can be specified.
Jolly Buoy is a really small island, and is protected by forest department, hence there are not places to stay there at night. You'll have to leave the island in the evening.
There are currently no places to eat in Jolly Buoy but you can easily find snack bars and small cafeteria's near the Wandoor Beach.
A trip to Jolly Buoy costs Rs. 950/-, which includes Boat Tickets and Permits. You'll need this permit to reach and explore Jolly Buoy. The permit is available from the IP&T office in Port Blair and boat tickets can be booked from the ticketing counter near the Wandoor Beach.
How do I get from Port Blair to Jolly Buoy?
You can reach there by taking a cab from Port Blair to Wandoor Beach. Get the permits and boat tickets and depart for Jolly Buoy.
Can I snorkel by myself in Jolly Buoy?
No, Snorkeling is not allowed if you don't have the required permit. This is done to save the coral population near the island.
Where can I get the permits for Jolly Buoy?
You can get the permits by visiting the IP&T office near Goalghar in Port Blair. Eternal Andaman can also get the permits and tickets for you.
Which activities are available at Jolly Buoy?
Snorkeling and Glass Bottom Boats are available at Jolly Buoy Island.
How can I reach Jolly Buoy from Havelock Island?
You can reach Jolly Buoy from Havelock by arriving at Port Blair first. Once you are here, you can read the "How to Reach" section above to learn more.
The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, often referred to as the Gandhi Marine National Park, is a true jewel of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Established in 1983, this protected marine sanctuary was created to conserve the extraordinary marine biodiversity found in the region.
Encompassing both Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island, the park is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and a dazzling array of marine creatures.
Visitors to the park are treated to a spectacular underwater world, where the coral reefs teem with life and the crystal-clear waters make every snorkeling or glass bottom boat ride an unforgettable experience.
The park is a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore thriving coral gardens and encounter unique marine life up close. To reach this marine paradise, travelers can take a boat from Wandoor Beach, located about 30 km from Port Blair.
Entry to the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is strictly regulated to protect its delicate ecosystem. A forest department permit is required for all visitors, and everyone must adhere to the park’s rules to help preserve its marine beauty for future generations.
Whether you’re marveling at the buoy island’s coral reefs or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, the park promises an immersive experience in one of India’s richest marine environments.
Jolly Buoy Island is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by marine life. Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and set in crystal clear waters, the island offers a front-row seat to the underwater wonders of the Andaman Islands.
As you snorkel or take a glass bottom boat ride, you’ll be greeted by schools of colorful fish darting among the corals, graceful sea turtles gliding by, and a kaleidoscope of marine creatures that call these reefs home.
The natural beauty of Jolly Buoy’s marine ecosystem is truly breathtaking. The coral reefs here are alive with activity, providing shelter and food for countless species. From tiny, brilliantly hued reef fish to larger marine animals, every visit offers a new discovery.
The island’s protected status and ongoing conservation efforts have helped maintain the health and diversity of its marine life, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Whether you’re an experienced diver, a first-time snorkeler, or simply want to relax on the white sandy beach and watch the world go by, Jolly Buoy’s marine beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy snorkeling or a glass bottom boat ride to fully appreciate the vibrant underwater world that makes this buoy island so special.
Jolly Buoy Island stands as a model for environmental protection in the Andaman Islands. Recognized as a protected area, the island is managed with strict conservation measures to safeguard its natural beauty and thriving coral population.
The Andaman Administration, along with the forest department, has declared Jolly Buoy a no plastic zone—meaning visitors must declare and limit any plastic items they bring, and absolutely no plastic or other waste can be left behind.
These efforts are crucial for preserving the island’s rich biodiversity, especially the delicate coral reefs that support a wide variety of marine life.
The requirement for a forest department permit helps control visitor numbers and ensures that everyone follows the guidelines designed to minimize human impact. By maintaining these high standards, Jolly Buoy continues to be a sanctuary for marine creatures and a pristine destination for eco-conscious travelers.
As a visitor, your cooperation is essential. Respect the rules, avoid bringing unnecessary plastic items, and always carry out what you bring in. By doing so, you help protect the unique ecosystem of the jolly buoy island and ensure that its natural beauty remains unspoiled for generations to come.
To make the most of your visit to Jolly Buoy Island while preserving its stunning environment, it’s important to practice responsible tourism. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the island’s natural beauty and vibrant marine life sustainably:
By following these responsible tourism practices, you help maintain the pristine condition of Jolly Buoy Island and its coral reefs, ensuring that future visitors can also experience its unparalleled marine beauty.
Your actions make a difference, let’s keep this buoy island a paradise for nature lovers and marine life alike.
