Jolly Buoy Island

Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman – An Ideal Destination for Nature Lovers

Welcome to the ultimate guide to exploring the pristine waters of Jolly Buoy Island in the Andaman Islands. Situated within the Mahatma Gandhi National Park’s Marine Sanctuary, this small islet is a true gem for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its abundant marine life, vibrant coral population, and captivating underwater world, Jolly Buoy Island offers an unforgettable experience for snorkeling and water sports enthusiasts. Let’s dive in and discover the wonders that await you on this picturesque island.

Jolly Buoy Island: A Hidden Paradise

Located just 30 kilometers from Wandoor Beach in South Andaman, Jolly Buoy Island boasts breathtaking natural beauty and unique features that set it apart. The island’s thick tropical forest, which occupies around 70% of its surface, is well recognised. The beach is present on one side of the island, while the other sides open up to cliffs that descend into the water. A must-do activity that allows you to see the island’s varied flora and animals is to explore this beautiful forest with the help of an informed guide.

As a protected area, Jolly Buoy Island has been designated as a no-plastic zone. Visitors are requested to submit a list of all plastic objects they want to bring with them in order to preserve the preservation of its biodiversity. It is strictly prohibited to leave any plastic or other belongings on the island. Food stalls and drinking water are not available on the beach, so it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks. However, snack bars and small cafeterias can be found near Wandoor Beach for food options. The island’s natural nature is preserved because to these conservation efforts, which also make it the perfect habitat for many different plant and animal species.

The Underwater Wonderland of Jolly Buoy Island

One of the major highlights of Jolly Buoy Island is its incredible coral population. Due to the island’s abundance of different coral species, the underwater environment is lively and colourful. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunity to explore these pristine coral reefs, which support a rich marine ecosystem teeming with diverse and beautiful fish species. The crystal-clear and shallow waters surrounding the island provide the perfect conditions for an unbeatable snorkeling experience.

During low tide, the corals become visible above the water surface, offering a mesmerizing sight so it’s important to remember that snorkelling is then restricted in order to protect the delicate corals. To fully immerse yourself in the wonders of the underwater realm, numerous rental boats are available on the island. These boats can take you deeper into the sea, allowing for a truly unforgettable experience as you marvel at the magnificence of the marine life and reefs beneath.

Essential Information for Your Visit

Before embarking on your Jolly Buoy adventure tour, there are a few key details you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Reaching Jolly Buoy Island: Jolly Buoy Island is only accessible by boat from Wandoor Beach. To reach Wandoor Beach from Port Blair, you can either opt for a bus, two wheeler or a cab. Buses departing from various bus stands and passing through Bathubasti are available at hourly intervals. Alternatively, you can arrange a cab by contacting reputable vendors. To reach Jolly Buoy Island, you’ll need to take a boat from Wandoor Beach. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours, including a 30-minute drive to Wandoor from the Port Blair city and the boat trip itself. We highly recommend pre-booking your ferry tickets in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

Timings and Availability: The entry ticket to Jolly Buoy Island includes boat tickets and permits, which can be obtained from the IP&T office in Port Blair. Jolly Buoy Island is open to visitors from June to September, spanning a period of six months the remaining months, Red Skin Island becomes accessible to tourists. It operates from 8 A.M. to 2 P.M. daily. It’s crucial to plan your visit within these timings to make the most of your time on the island.

Snorkeling Permissions: If you plan to snorkel near Jolly Buoy Island independently, you’ll need to obtain permission from the forest department. This ensures the safety of both visitors and the marine environment. Remember to secure the necessary permits before engaging in any snorkeling activities.

Packing Essentials: As there are no changing facilities available on the island, it’s essential to avoid getting your clothes wet. It’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella if you’re going during the rainy season. Pack light and remember to list all the items you bring to the island, as required.

Conservation Efforts and Biodiversity

Jolly Buoy Island is part of the Mahatma Gandhi National Park’s Marine Sanctuary, managed by the Andaman Administration’s Forest Department. The island’s protected status and the conservation efforts undertaken here are commendable. By declaring the island a no-plastic zone, visitors are required to respect the guidelines and contribute to preserving the island’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

The island’s coral population and marine life are key indicators of its ecological importance. Apart from the vibrant underwater world, Jolly Buoy Island’s has dense tropical forest is home to various species of flora and fauna. You can come across unusual plant species when hiking in the forest, and you might have a chance to see birds and other small creatures. The island truly offers a harmonious blend of terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Additional Activities and Tour Packages of Jolly Bouy Island

In addition to snorkeling, Jolly Buoy Island offers a range of other water sports and activities to enhance your experience. One such activity is the glass bottom boat ride, where you can marvel at the underwater world without getting wet. These boats have transparent and thick glass bottoms that allow you to observe the magnificent coral belts, marine life, and reefs.

For those seeking more adventure, various water sports like scuba diving, underwater sea walk, parasailing, and jet skiing are available on other spots in Andaman Islands that provide thrilling experiences and further exploration of the marine wonders.

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, many tour operators offer packages that include a visit to Jolly Buoy Island along with other attractions in the Andaman Islands. These packages often include transportation, accommodation, permits, and guided tours, ensuring a convenient and well-organized trip.