Jolly Buoy Island
Some of the clearest water and living coral near Port Blair.
Overview
Jolly Buoy sits within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, south of Port Blair, and is known for exceptionally clear water and some of the healthiest coral in the whole region. To protect the reef, single-use plastic is banned on the island entirely for every visitor. The park itself covers a wide stretch of protected coastline and islets.
It opens only on a rotating seasonal basis, with Red Skin Island standing in as an alternative when Jolly Buoy is closed. Reaching it involves a drive to Wandoor followed by a boat crossing through the national park, with permits checked before boarding, and the reef here is shallow enough for confident swimmers to snorkel directly from the boat itself. Glass-bottom boats give a dry option for the rest of the group, and the whole outing works well as a lighter alternative to the longer trip out to Havelock.
What to see and do
Coral reefs
Clear water and living coral make this among the best snorkelling spots near Port Blair.
Glass-bottom boats
Dry way to see the reef clearly for visitors who would rather not snorkel.
Wandoor Beach
Mainland base for the trip, a calm and pleasant beach worth a visit in itself.
Protected marine park
Part of a conservation area, so the reef stays in better shape than busier spots.
How to reach
Drive to Wandoor from Port Blair, then take the park boat with permits checked on arrival.
Good to know
- No plastic is allowed on the island at all, so pack your bag accordingly.
- Confirm in advance whether Jolly Buoy or Red Skin Island is open for your dates.
- Boats depend entirely on sea conditions, so keep the rest of your day flexible.
Explore
Jolly Buoy Island in Our Packages
Tell us your dates and what you are after, and our Port Blair team will build an itinerary that fits this island in at the right pace.
