Are you looking for a secluded and pristine island to experience the unspoiled beauty of nature? Then, Jolly Buoy Island in Andaman is the perfect destination for you. This tiny island is located in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and is famous for its crystal clear waters, colorful corals, and rare marine life. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Jolly Buoy Island, Andaman, including how to reach, the best time to visit, things to do, and much more.
1. Introduction
Jolly Buoy Island is a small uninhabited island located in the Andaman Islands, India. This island is a part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and is famous for its beautiful coral reefs, underwater marine life, and clear waters. It is one of the most popular destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.
2. Location of Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy Island is located in the Andaman Islands, which is a group of islands in the Bay of Bengal. It is located 30 km southwest of Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The island is situated in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
3. How to reach Jolly Buoy Island
The only way to reach Jolly Buoy Island is by boat. You can take a boat from Wandoor Beach, which is located 30 km from Port Blair. Wandoor Beach is well-connected to Port Blair by road. The boat journey from Wandoor Beach to Jolly Buoy Island takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the weather conditions.
4. Entry permit and timings
To visit Jolly Buoy Island, you need to obtain an entry permit from the forest department. The permits are issued at the Wandoor Beach Jetty and are subject to availability. The island is closed for visitors on Mondays and during the monsoon season from May to September. The timings of the boat rides are from 9 am to 2 pm.
5. Best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island
The best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island is from November to April when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm. The water is crystal clear during this time, making it perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, you need to plan your visit in advance as the island has limited entry permits, and they get sold out quickly during peak season.
6. Things to do in Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the things you can do on the island:
i. Snorkeling
Snorkeling is the most popular activity on Jolly Buoy Island. You can witness the beautiful coral reefs, apart from a variety of colorful fishes, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. You can rent snorkeling gear on the island and explore the underwater world at your own pace.
ii. Scuba diving
If you want to witness the marine life up close, scuba diving is the best way to do it. The island has some of the best scuba diving spots in Andaman, including the Red Fan, Soft Coral, and Fish Paradise. You can take a scuba diving course on the island or hire a professional diver to guide you.
iii. Glass-bottom boat ride
If you are not comfortable with water activities, you can still witness the beauty of the coral reefs and marine life by taking a glass-bottom boat ride. The boat has a glass bottom that allows you to see the underwater world without getting wet.
iv. Beach walking
Jolly Buoy Island has a pristine white sand beach where you can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the scenic views, and feel the cool breeze. You can also collect shells and take photographs.
v. Sunbathing
The island is perfect for sunbathing as it is surrounded by clear waters and has a clean beach. You can soak up the sun and get a perfect tan while enjoying the tranquility of the island.
vi. Photography
Jolly Buoy Island is a photographer’s paradise as it offers breathtaking views of the crystal clear water, colorful corals, and rare marine life. You can capture some stunning photographs to cherish forever.
7. Wildlife and marine life at Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy Island is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species. The island has a dense forest cover with several species of trees, including Padauk, Mahogany, and Andaman Padauk. The marine life at Jolly Buoy Island is equally diverse, with a variety of fishes, turtles, and corals. You can witness the rare dugong, an endangered marine mammal, if you are lucky.
8. Accommodation options near Jolly Buoy Island
As Jolly Buoy Island is an uninhabited island, there are no accommodation options available on the island. However, you can stay in Port Blair, which has a wide range of hotels and resorts to suit all budgets. Some of the popular options include Hotel Sentinel, Fortune Resort Bay Island, and Sea Princess Beach Resort.
9. Tips for visiting Jolly Buoy Island
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Wear comfortable clothes and footwear as you will have to walk on the beach and climb stairs to reach the island.
- Do not litter the island and follow the guidelines issued by the forest department.
- Do not touch or disturb the marine life and corals.
- Carry sufficient water and food as there are no restaurants or shops on the island.
10. Conclusion
Jolly Buoy Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island offers a unique opportunity to witness the unspoiled beauty of nature, including the coral reefs, marine life, and pristine beaches. Follow the guidelines issued by the forest department, and respect the island’s flora and fauna to preserve its beauty for future generations.
11. FAQs
- Is Jolly Buoy Island open all year round?
- No, Jolly Buoy Island is closed for visitors on Mondays and during the monsoon season from May to September.
- Can I stay on Jolly Buoy Island?
- No, there are no accommodation options available on the island.
- Can I rent snorkeling gear on Jolly Buoy Island?
- Yes, you can rent snorkeling gear on the island.
- Are there any food and drinks available on Jolly Buoy Island?
- No, there are no restaurants or shops on the island. It is recommended to carry your own food and water.
- Is scuba diving safe at Jolly Buoy Island?
- Yes, scuba diving at Jolly Buoy Island is safe as long as you follow the guidelines issued by the diving instructor or professional diver.
