Jolly Buoy Island Andaman – Coral Reefs, Snorkeling & Marine Magic
Discover the Pristine Paradise of Jolly Buoy Island Andaman
If you’re looking for the cleanest waters, richest coral reefs, and a true escape from the crowd — Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman is your dream come true. Located within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, this island is an eco-protected gem, famous for snorkeling, glass bottom boat rides, and vibrant marine life.
Unlike most tourist islands, Jolly Buoy is plastic-free and permit-restricted, allowing only a limited number of visitors each day — making the experience quiet, exclusive, and deeply connected to nature.
Why Travellers Love Jolly Buoy Island
- Home to some of the best coral reefs in the Andaman
- Protected ecosystem, open only for a few months each year
- Perfect for non-swimmers via glass bottom boat rides
- No shops, crowds, or litter — just pure nature
Whether you’re into underwater adventures or simply want to unwind on a picture-perfect beach, Jolly Buoy Island Andaman is a must-do experience for any traveler visiting Port Blair.
🚤 How to Reach Jolly Buoy Island from Port Blair
Getting to Jolly Buoy Island Andaman, is easy and scenic. Whether you’re coming from Port Blair or Havelock Island, ferries are the main (and most enjoyable) way to reach Jolly Buoy Island Andaman.
📍Distance & Location
Jolly Buoy Island is located about 30 km southwest of Port Blair, inside the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, near Wandoor.
🚐 Step-by-Step Travel Route
Drive from Port Blair to Wandoor Jetty – approx. 45 minutes (25 km)
Board a Government Boat – only authorised boats are allowed
Boat Ride to Jolly Buoy Island – around 45–60 minutes
📝 Entry to the island is only permitted with a valid forest permit and advance boat booking.
⏰ Departure Time
Most boats leave between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and you must return by 2:00 PM, as overnight stays are not allowed.
✅ Pro Tip: Jolly Buoy is open only for a few months in the year. When it’s closed, Red Skin Island is offered as an alternative.
Permit Process & Entry Rules for Jolly Buoy Island Andaman
Visiting Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman is a special experience, but it comes with strict eco-rules and a limited entry system. That’s what keeps it clean, healthy, and crowd-free.
📃 Do You Need a Permit for Jolly Buoy Island?
Yes — a permit is mandatory. Since the island is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, the Forest Department regulates access to protect the coral ecosystem.
You need:
- ✅ A Forest Entry Permit
- ✅ A boat ticket from Wandoor Jetty
- ✅ A government-issued photo ID
🎫 Permits are issued only for same-day trips — no overnight stays allowed.
🚫 Entry Rules at a Glance:
- Plastic is strictly banned – even disposable water bottles are not allowed.
- Visitors must return by 2:00 PM – no one is allowed to stay after that.
- Only 1–2 boats per day operate — limited seats available.
Permits are issued 1–2 days in advance, and sell out quickly in peak season.
💡 Pro Tip:
Let us handle the permit, ID submission, and ticket booking — your spot gets secured without standing in long queues.
✅ With Andaman Expedition, your Jolly Buoy Island permit and boat ride are arranged in advance — stress-free and seamless.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Jolly Buoy Island Andaman
Unlike other islands in the Andamans, Jolly Buoy Island is not open all year round. The Forest Department regulates its opening to protect the fragile marine ecosystem.
✅ Jolly Buoy Island Season (Open Months)
- Open: Typically from November to April
- Closed: During May to October (monsoon & breeding season)
🌦️ During off-season, Red Skin Island is opened as an alternative within the Marine National Park.
🌞 Ideal Time to Visit
The best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island is between December and March when the weather is dry, the sea is calm, and underwater visibility is excellent for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides.
🚫 Avoid:
- Rainy months (May to Sept) — boat rides are suspended
- Last-minute travel — permits sell out fast during peak season
💡 Pro Tip: Book your Jolly Buoy permit and tour at least 1–2 days in advance to avoid disappointment — only limited tourists are allowed per day.
Top Things to Do in Jolly Buoy Island Andaman
Ready to Discover Jolly Buoy Island?
Is Jolly Buoy Island open all year?
No, Jolly Buoy Island is open seasonally — usually from November to April. It remains closed during monsoon months to protect its coral ecosystem.
How to get a permit for Jolly Buoy Island?
Permits are issued by the Forest Department in Port Blair. You need to apply with a valid ID and secure your boat ticket in advance, as slots are limited.
How to reach Jolly Buoy Island from Port Blair?
Drive 45 minutes to Wandoor Jetty, then take a government-authorized boat to Jolly Buoy. The boat ride takes about 45–60 minutes.
Can I go snorkeling at Jolly Buoy Island?
Yes, Jolly Buoy is famous for snorkeling over colorful coral reefs. Equipment is available on the island, but limited — early arrival helps.
Is Jolly Buoy Island suitable for non-swimmers?
Absolutely. Non-swimmers can explore marine life through glass bottom boat rides, which offer clear views of coral without entering the water.
Why is plastic banned on Jolly Buoy Island?
The island is part of a marine national park. To preserve its fragile reef system, plastic bottles, wrappers, and disposable items are strictly prohibited.
How long can I stay on Jolly Buoy Island?
Visitors are allowed only for a few hours during the day, typically between 9 AM to 2 PM. No overnight stays are allowed.
Is food available on Jolly Buoy Island?
No, there are no shops or stalls on the island. Travelers must bring their own food in eco-safe containers — plastic packaging is not allowed.
Can I visit without a tour operator?
It’s possible, but not recommended. Managing permits, boat timing, and transfers is easier and more reliable through a local tour provider.
What makes Jolly Buoy Island special?
It’s one of the cleanest, most ecologically preserved islands in Andaman, offering unmatched coral views, zero pollution, and a peaceful escape from crowds.