If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing a real, live volcano, you don’t need to travel abroad — India has its very own!
Welcome to Barren Island, the only active volcano in the Indian subcontinent, located in the Andaman Sea, around 135 km northeast from Port Blair and From Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) around 90–100 km by sea.
This small, isolated island rises dramatically from the deep blue ocean, with smoke often seen rising from its crater. The landscape is wild, untouched, and truly mesmerizing — a rare natural wonder you can now see up close by cruise from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram).
Once considered off-limits to tourists, Barren Island is now open for controlled sightseeing tours, giving travelers the chance to see this incredible volcano from the sea — a breathtaking view you’ll never forget!
Good news for adventure seekers — the Directorate of Shipping Services (A&N Administration) has officially launched a fortnightly Barren Island cruise from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) starting October 2025.
It’s a round-trip cruise, giving you the perfect one-day experience without the need for long planning or special permits.
Another best way to experience this marvel is through a private charter boat, which operates with special permits granted by the authorities. These charter boats offer a close and comfortable view of the volcanic island from a safe distance, often departing from Port Blair or Havelock Island, depending on sea conditions and permissions.
To know more about how to plan your Barren Island trip in private charter boats, read our detailed blog here.
In a step toward educational tourism, the Andaman & Nicobar Administration is planning special trips for government school and college students to Barren Island.
These trips will help students:
Such “Learn with Nature” voyages are not only exciting but also give young minds a hands-on learning experience — turning the Andaman Islands into a living classroom of Earth’s natural wonders.
Local schools and educational institutions can soon collaborate with the Directorate of Education and Directorate of Shipping Services to schedule their learning trips.
Tickets can be booked online through the Directorate of Shipping Services’ e-ticketing portal starting October 11, 2025.
| Cabin Type | Accomodation | Fare (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Coral Suite | 2 - Berth | 8,310/- |
| Reef Suite | 4 - Berth | 6,404/- |
| Island Breeze | 6 - Berth | 4,290/- |
| Lagoon | Dormitory (16 / 24 - Berth | 3,180/- |
Meals: ₹2,000 extra per passenger (includes bed tea, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and high tea).
The ship offers comfortable cabins and dormitory options depending on your budget.
Each class includes basic amenities, clean washrooms, and helpful crew service.
Food coupons (optional) can be purchased onboard for delicious meals throughout the journey.
Safety and comfort are a top priority, with the ship operated directly by the Directorate of Shipping Services.
As your ship reaches the Barren Island vicinity, you’ll witness:
It’s a surreal moment — especially when sunlight hits the smoky crater — a perfect frame for your camera!
The ideal season to take this cruise is November to April, when the sea remains calm and visibility is best.
During monsoon (June to September), cruises may not operate due to rough weather.
For official updates and tickets:
Visit the Directorate of Shipping Services, Port Blair
or check the A&N Administration’s e-ticketing portal (opening from 11th Oct 2025).
You can also contact local tour operators like Blue Andaman Tour, who assist travelers with booking, transfers, and cruise arrangements.
A trip to Barren Island isn’t just a sightseeing experience — it’s a journey to Earth’s living geology.
Watching the only active volcano in India, surrounded by the calm blue Andaman waters, is something few ever get to experience.
So, if you’re visiting the Andaman Islands in 2025, don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime adventure — the Barren Island Cruise awaits you!
Prem Nagar, Near Kali Mandir, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), Andaman Island.
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