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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Are you an adventure enthusiast seeking an extraordinary experience in the mesmerizing waters of the Andaman Islands? Look no further! One of the most exhilarating activities that allow you to explore the underwater world up close is sea walking. With sea walking, you can immerse yourself in the enchanting marine life without needing any scuba diving or swimming skills. In this article, we will take you on a virtual journey to discover the captivating underwater world of Andaman through the thrilling experience of sea walking.
Sea walking is an innovative underwater adventure that enables individuals to walk on the ocean floor using a specially designed helmet. The helmet provides a continuous flow of oxygen, eliminating the need for any complicated scuba diving equipment. It allows you to breathe naturally while you explore the underwater wonders. Picture yourself strolling along the ocean floor, effortlessly walking as if you were on land, while being surrounded by vibrant marine life and captivating coral formations.
Some of the world’s most stunning and diverse underwater environments may be found in the Andaman Island. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine species, these islands offer a paradise for sea walking enthusiasts. The rich biodiversity and preserved underwater habitats make Andaman an ideal destination to embark on this thrilling adventure. As you take each step, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of colorful fish and fascinating sea creatures, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. The proximity to live corals allows you to witness the incredible biodiversity of the underwater world up-close and personal.
Andaman offers several fantastic sea walking spots that cater to different preferences. Some of the popular destinations include
Havelock Island, particularly Elephant Beach, stands as a haven for water sports in the Andaman Island. It boasts the most diverse collection of activities in India, making it the ideal starting point for Sea Walk enthusiasts. The waters surrounding Elephant Beach are renowned for their extensive strips of underwater volcanic formations, home to a rich coral population that is easily accessible to tourists. Dive into this dense coral forest and encounter a kaleidoscope of rare and vibrant fish species, creating an immersive experience that will leave you in awe.
North Bay is the second-best destination in Andaman to take part in the captivating Sea Walk adventure. It has gained immense popularity among tourists due to the abundance of underwater splendor it offers. The corals in North Bay are divided into small yet dense parts, providing a sanctuary for magnificent fish species and captivating lobsters. With this Sea Walk opportunity, you may totally lose yourself in the wonders of the undersea world.
Before embarking on your Sea Walk adventure, you will receive a detail 5-10 minute training tutorial. During this session, you’ll learn essential tips on walking correctly underwater and receive hand signs for effective communication throughout the experience. This tutorial aims to ensure your safety and guarantee a hassle-free and extraordinary Sea Walk adventure.
Once the training is complete, you’ll be provided with a comfortable glass helmet-type breather. This transparent breather, connected to the apparatus for underwater breathing, will be securely fixed on your head. The setup ensures normal breathing while offering a clear view of the stunning underwater surroundings.
Accompanied by a team of experienced Sea Walk guides, you’ll be guided to the designated walking-spot. The spot is carefully designed with wide netted boundaries to maximize safety while enabling you to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting underwater world. The Sea Walk guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
Before you embark on your sea walking adventure, it is important to make necessary preparations. Ensure you have the appropriate swimwear, comfortable footwear, and a towel. It’s also advisable to carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the tropical sun.
You will get the chance to see a wide variety of marine creatures while on your sea walking experience. Keep an eye out for schools of tropical fish gliding by, graceful sea turtles leisurely swimming, and majestic manta rays gracefully soaring through the water. Many interesting creatures may be found in the Andaman Sea, and Sea Walking gives you the chance to see them live in their natural habitat.
Andaman’s coral reefs are a sight to behold. Beautiful coral formations of all sizes and forms will surround you as you walk along the ocean floor. Marvel at the intricate beauty of hard and soft corals, which provide shelter to a group of marine species. Witness the vibrant colors and delicate structures of these living organisms, making the underwater landscape truly breathtaking.
While sea walking is a thrilling adventure, it is essential to prioritize safety. Always listen attentively to the instructions provided by the guides. Ensure that your helmet is securely fastened and follow the designated route during your underwater walk. It is crucial to maintain a calm and composed atmosphere, respecting the marine environment and avoiding any disruptive behavior.
The average cost of Sea Walk is approximately ₹3500 per person.
The Andaman Islands can be visited throughout the year; however, the best time for sea walking is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to May. The weather during these months is pleasant, with clear skies and calm seas, providing optimal visibility and ideal conditions for sea walking adventures.
To immortalize your sea walking adventure, consider capturing the mesmerizing moments through underwater photography. Many sea walking operators offer photography services or equipment rental, allowing you to take home stunning photographs and share your incredible experience with friends and family.
Prem Nagar, Near Kali Mandir, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), Andaman Island.
