Islands of Andaman & Nicobar | India's Emerald Islands

Fri 22-08-2025 09:38

Fri 11-09-2026 16:38

Jolly Buoy Island

Coral Paradise of the Andamans - Overview

Jolly Buoy Island: A Pristine Marine Paradise

Jolly Buoy Island, located about 30 km from Sri Vijaya Puram via Wandoor, is an uninhabited island that comes under Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, powdery white-sand beach, and lush coastal vegetation, it is one of the Andaman Islands' most pristine eco-tourism destinations.

The island alternates access with neighbouring Red Skin Island, allowing coral regeneration. When one is open, the other is closed. Jolly Buoy Island shuts entirely through the South-West monsoon (roughly June to September).

Island Location

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Emergency Numbers

Police	100
Fire	101
Ambulance	108
Tourist Helpline	1363
Coast Guard	1554

How To Reach

Jolly Buoy Island is accessible via Wandoor Jetty in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, about 30 km from Sri Vijaya Puram. Visitors must combine a short road journey with a ferry ride to reach the island.

By Road 🚗

Travel from Mohanpura Bus Terminus, Sri Vijaya Puram to Wandoor Jetty (Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park), a distance of approximately 30 km.
The journey takes 30–40 minutes, and it is advisable to leave by 7:00 AM to catch the morning boat.

By Ferry ⛴️

Government-authorised boats operate from Wandoor Jetty to Jolly Buoy Island, covering the sea route in approximately 30–45 minutes.
Boats generally depart between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM and return by 2:00 PM.
Visitors usually spend 2–3 hours on the island before returning to Wandoor.

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Travel Information

Opening Time and Access

Jolly Buoy Island is open only from Mid-November to Mid-May every year, aligning with the best time to enjoy the coral reefs by glass-bottom boat activity.
The island is open only for day visits, around 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with a maximum of 280 visitors permitted each day.
The island remains closed during the non‑tourist season (Mid-May to Mid‑November) to protect its fragile marine ecosystem during the monsoon season.

Permits & Entry

Visitor permits are issued by the Forest Department and can be obtained at the IP&T Department Reception.
Private boat permits are issued by authorised private operators at the IP&T Department counter and the Marine National Park Ticket Counter, Wandoor, subject to availability and applicable regulations.
Before boarding, all visitors must check in at the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park counter, where permits and bookings are verified. As the number of visitors is limited each day, advance booking is recommended.

Food and Stay

Jolly Buoy Island is a day-trip destination and has no accommodation or food facilities. Visitors are recommended to carry sufficient drinking water in a reusable bottle, and light refreshments will be provided on the boat.

Things to Remember Before Visit

Check Current Season Status: Jolly Buoy typically operates from mid-November to mid-May and may alternate opening with Red Skin Island.
Book Ahead in Peak Season: Daily visitor numbers are limited; book your permit and boat ticket in advance.
No Plastic on the Island: Even packaged food in plastic wrapping is discouraged; use the refillable water-bottle system where available.