Have you ever dreamt of stepping onto an island so pure that time seems to slow down?
Imagine an untouched paradise — clear waters, colorful corals, and an air filled with tropical fragrances.
Welcome to Jolly Buoy Island, one of the best-kept secrets of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

If you’re looking for Jolly Buoy Island all information — permits, how to reach, things to do, when to visit, eco-tips, and real traveler advice — you’re in the perfect place.
Let’s embark on this beautiful journey together.

🗺️ Introduction: What Makes Jolly Buoy Island So Special?

First things first, why is Jolly Buoy Island such a buzzword among serious travelers?

Unlike popular beaches that suffer from overtourism, Jolly Buoy remains untouched.
It is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, a protected area aimed at conserving fragile marine life, coral reefs, and coastal ecosystems.
Here, the seawater is as transparent as glass, and coral gardens bloom just beneath the surface — a living museum of nature’s finest work.

No hotels, no shops, no pollution — just nature in its raw, breathtaking form.

Moreover, visitor numbers are strictly limited, ensuring that when you step on Jolly Buoy, it feels like stepping into an exclusive world reserved just for a lucky few.

🚤 How to Reach Jolly Buoy Island

Now, let’s talk about the journey — because reaching Jolly Buoy Island is an adventure in itself.

Step 1: Arrive at Port Blair

Your journey starts with reaching Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Daily flights are available from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi.

Tip:

  • Try to arrive early in the day if you want to start your trip without much waiting time.

Step 2: Head to Wandoor Jetty

Next, you’ll drive about 30–40 minutes from Port Blair to reach Wandoor Jetty.
The drive itself is scenic — think winding coastal roads, dense forests, and occasional glimpses of the ocean.

Transportation Options:

  • Private taxi (easiest)
  • Rented bikes (for adventurous travelers)
  • Pre-arranged transport with your travel agency, like Andaman Tour DMC.

Step 3: Ferry from Wandoor to Jolly Buoy

At Wandoor Jetty, you’ll board a government-regulated ferry to Jolly Buoy Island.
The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, gliding over turquoise waters and offering stunning views of nearby islands.

Important:

  • Ferry timings are strictly morning departures between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM.
  • No afternoon ferries!
  • Return ferry is usually scheduled for the early afternoon.

📝 Jolly Buoy Island Entry Permits: What You Need to Know

Now, before you even reach Wandoor, there’s a crucial detail — the permit.

Since Jolly Buoy Island falls inside a protected national park, you cannot just show up and hop on a boat.

How to Get the Permit?

  • Visit the Tourism Department Office at Port Blair.
  • Carry valid ID proofs like Aadhaar Card, Passport, or Driving License.
  • Apply at least a day in advance, especially in high season.

Or, even better:
When you book through a reliable operator like Andaman Tour DMC, they arrange all permits for you.
No queues, no stress — just pure travel bliss.

Cost of Permit:
Around ₹75–₹100 per person (subject to slight changes).

🌿 Eco-Rules and Guidelines You Must Follow

Unlike commercial beaches, Jolly Buoy is an eco-sensitive zone.
Thus, travelers must adhere to certain strict yet meaningful rules:

  • 🚫 No plastics allowed (water bottles, wrappers, bags).
  • 🚭 No alcohol or smoking on the island.
  • 🏖️ No overnight stays — it’s strictly a day-trip destination.
  • 🐠 No touching corals or disturbing marine life.
  • 🗑️ Carry back your waste — leave only footprints.

And honestly, respecting these rules doesn’t feel like a burden; it feels like a privilege.

🌞 Things to Do at Jolly Buoy Island

Once you arrive, the real magic unfolds.
Jolly Buoy Island is not just about lazing on a beach — although that’s highly recommended too!

Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

1. Glass-Bottom Boat Ride

The glass-bottom boat ride is often the highlight for many visitors.
As the boat floats over coral gardens, you’ll see starfish, sea anemones, clownfish, and even sea turtles without even getting wet!

Price: Approx ₹800–₹1000 per person (varies slightly).
Duration: Around 20–30 minutes.

Tip: Choose early morning slots — sunlight enhances underwater visibility beautifully.

2. Snorkeling

If you want a deeper connection with the marine world, snorkeling is a must. With minimal gear, you’ll float effortlessly and gaze into vibrant coral fields, colorful fish shoals, and fascinating marine life.

Equipment: Available for rent at Wandoor Jetty or included in tour packages.

Safety:

  • Beginners can snorkel safely in shallow areas.
  • Always wear life jackets provided by the tour guides.

3. Relaxing and Beach Walks

Sometimes, doing nothing is the best thing to do. Find your own spot under the shade of a tree. Dip your feet into the cool, clear water. Or just lie back and let the soft, salty breeze wash away every ounce of stress.

4. Photography

Every corner of Jolly Buoy is photogenic — whether it’s the dramatic meeting of jungle and sea, the psychedelic underwater life, or simply the play of sunlight on waves. Carry a waterproof phone cover or action camera (like a GoPro) for the best shots.

🏝️ Best Time to Visit Jolly Buoy Island

Timing your visit right can make all the difference.

Season:

  • November to early May is the best time.
  • Ideal months: December, January, February, March.

Avoid:

  • June to October (Island closed due to monsoons and rough seas).

Weather Conditions:
Expect sunny skies, mild sea breezes, and warm tropical temperatures perfect for beach adventures.

🎒 Packing Checklist for Jolly Buoy Island Trip

You’ll be visiting a remote island — so pack smartly!

  • Eco-friendly sunscreen (reef-safe, biodegradable)
  • Wide-brimmed hat
  • UV-protective sunglasses
  • Lightweight beachwear
  • Flip-flops or water shoes
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Waterproof mobile pouch
  • Towel and extra clothes
  • Light, eco-packed snacks
  • Basic first aid kit

Tip: Avoid overpacking. Keep it simple, light, and eco-conscious.

🏨 Where to Stay: Accommodation Near Jolly Buoy Island

Since no stays are allowed on the island itself, your base will be in Port Blair.

Recommended stays include:

  • Luxury: SeaShell Port Blair, Taj Exotica
  • Mid-range: Sinclairs Bayview, Hotel Sentinel
  • Budget: Haywizz Port Blair, GB Oceania

Booking a hotel closer to Wandoor helps if you want quicker ferry access early morning.

🛶 How to Book a Complete Jolly Buoy Island Trip

You have two main options:

  1. Do-It-Yourself (DIY):
    • Apply for permits yourself.
    • Reach Wandoor Jetty independently.
    • Stand in ferry queues. (Time-consuming and confusing for first-time visitors.)
  2. Pre-Book with a Trusted Travel Company:
    • Permit + Ferry + Transport + Guided assistance = All included.
    • Andaman Tour DMC specializes in smooth, eco-friendly Jolly Buoy trips.

Booking through a trusted DMC not only saves time but also ensures you don’t miss the island due to paperwork or ferry restrictions.

📈 Why Jolly Buoy Island Should Top Your Andaman Itinerary

There are hundreds of beaches in Andaman.
So why prioritize Jolly Buoy Island?

Because it is:

  • Raw and uncommercialized.
  • Incredibly rich in biodiversity.
  • Strictly eco-protected.
  • Limited access = exclusivity and peace.
  • Home to India’s clearest underwater coral views.

In short, Jolly Buoy is not just a destination — it’s a rare opportunity to witness Earth’s natural beauty preserved exactly as nature intended.

📞 Ready to Plan Your Jolly Buoy Island Adventure?

Andaman Tour DMC makes it incredibly easy.
We take care of:

  • Entry permits
  • Ferry bookings
  • Pickup and drop from your hotel
  • Expert snorkeling guidance
  • Complete eco-travel arrangements

🌟 Hassle-free. Eco-friendly. Experience-rich.

👉 Call/WhatsApp Now

“Let’s protect, respect, and enjoy this paradise — together.”

✍️ Final Thoughts: Jolly Buoy Island – Nature’s Unwritten Poetry

As your ferry slowly leaves Jolly Buoy behind, you’ll feel a quiet ache — the kind you get after encountering something truly extraordinary.

You won’t just carry photographs.
You’ll carry the echo of clear waters, the sparkle of coral gardens, and the gentle whisper of tropical breezes — memories engraved into your soul.

Because Jolly Buoy Island isn’t just another tourist spot.
It’s an invitation to reconnect — with nature, and with yourself.

Don’t just visit — experience.
Don’t just see — feel.
Let Jolly Buoy change you.