🏝️ Jolly Buoy Island – The Crystal Clear Coral Paradise
Visit Jolly Buoy Island in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Famous for world-class coral reefs, glass-bottom boat rides, and strict eco-friendly policies.
📸 Representative Image
Jolly Buoy Island is arguably the most pristine marine sanctuary in the Andaman archipelago. Located within the protected Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, it offers underwater visibility so clear that you can see the seabed from your boat. To maintain its untouched beauty, the island is a strict no-plastic zone and is only open to the public for six months of the year.
The Permit Process
- Mandatory: Forest Department Permit
- Booking: At least 1 day in advance
- Valid Photo ID required for all travelers
Timing Your Trip
- Start: Leave Port Blair by 7:00 AM
- Ferry: Departs Wandoor Jetty at 9:00 AM
- Return: All boats leave by 2:30 PM
Strict No-Plastic Zone
Jolly Buoy is a plastic-free sanctuary. Single-use plastic bottles, snack wrappers, and bags are strictly banned. You must deposit all plastic items at the Wandoor Jetty security counter. If you carry water, use a thermos or rent a reusable bottle at the jetty. Let's keep the reef alive!
✨ Signature Marine Experiences
🪸 World-Class Coral Viewing
Since snorkeling is often restricted here to protect the fragile ecosystem, the Glass Bottom Boat Ride is the highlight of the trip. The boatmen navigate specifically over "Coral Gardens" where you can see massive brain corals, rare blue corals, and sea anemones teeming with clownfish. For the best experience, we recommend opting for the extended 30-to-60 minute boat tours.
The Seasonal Alternate
Jolly Buoy is usually open from November to April. When it closes for reef recovery, the nearby Red Skin Island opens to welcome tourists.
🎒 Pro Travel Tips
- Reach Wandoor Jetty 30 minutes early for the security check.
- Wear light, quick-dry clothes; there are no formal changing rooms.
- Pack your lunch in a non-plastic container/tiffin box.
- Bring your own towel and a waterproof bag for phones.
Secure Your Jolly Buoy Permit Now
Permits are limited and sell out daily during peak season. Don't risk missing this island. We can handle your Wandoor Cab and Forest Permit booking.
Book Cab + Permit Package