Jolly Buoy Island: The Andamans' Best-Preserved Reef

The Andamans' Best-Kept Reef

Jolly Buoy Island sits inside Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park near Wandoor, roughly 30 km from Port Blair, and is widely considered to have some of the clearest water and healthiest coral easily reachable on the mainland Andaman circuit. The reason isn't luck — it's protection. The Forest Department caps how many visitors are allowed on the island each day, which keeps the reef in noticeably better shape than more freely accessible spots.

That protection comes with real logistics: Jolly Buoy is open only outside the monsoon, reachable only from Wandoor rather than directly from Port Blair, and closed to overnight stays entirely. None of this is a dealbreaker — it just means visiting Jolly Buoy takes a bit more planning than North Bay Island, which most visitors do more casually and on shorter notice.

If clear-water snorkelling over healthy coral is a priority on your Andaman trip, Jolly Buoy is usually where seasoned visitors and dive operators point first.

Best Time to Visit & the Monsoon Closure

Jolly Buoy's opening dates are tied directly to the monsoon, unlike most Andaman attractions which merely get less pleasant during the rains — this one closes outright.

Our pick: Late November through February for the clearest water — but book your slot in advance, and always double-check current opening dates before finalising a shoulder-season Andaman itinerary.

How to Reach Jolly Buoy Island

Unlike North Bay or Ross Island, Jolly Buoy isn't reached directly by boat from Port Blair — you first travel overland to Wandoor.

• Port Blair to Wandoor: Roughly 30 km by road, about an hour by taxi or bus, most easily arranged as part of a pre-booked day-trip package.
• Wandoor Jetty to Jolly Buoy: A boat ride of around 30-45 minutes through the marine park waters to the island itself.
• Through a Tour Operator: Most visitors book a full-day package from Port Blair that bundles transport, park entry, and the boat, which is simpler than arranging each leg independently.

Marine Park Rules

Jolly Buoy's protected status comes with rules that are actively enforced, not just posted signage — expect bag checks before boarding.

• No plastic or non-biodegradable items: Bottles, bags, and packaged snacks in plastic are typically not allowed onto the island.
• No touching or standing on coral: Strictly enforced during snorkelling — keep hands and fins clear of the reef.
• No overnight stay: Jolly Buoy is a day-trip-only island; everyone returns to the mainland the same day.
• Capped daily visitors: The Forest Department limits how many people can visit per day to manage impact on the reef.

Snorkelling & What You'll See

Snorkelling here is often the highlight of an entire Andaman trip, precisely because the reef is better protected than at more heavily visited spots. Expect colourful hard and soft coral formations, reef fish in genuinely large numbers, and water clarity that regularly beats what you'll find at North Bay. Glass-bottom boat rides are also available for those who'd rather stay dry.

Because this is a national park rather than a casual tourist beach, guides tend to be more attentive about keeping visitors off the coral — a small inconvenience that's directly responsible for the reef's condition.

Suggested Visit Plan (Full Day)

Because of the road transfer to Wandoor, a Jolly Buoy trip realistically takes most of a day, even though the island itself is a shorter stop.

Food & Facilities

There are no food stalls on Jolly Buoy Island itself — carry your own water and snacks (in non-plastic packaging where possible) or plan to eat at Wandoor or back in Port Blair. Basic restroom facilities exist near the jetty area.

Budget Breakdown

* Figures are per person. Booking a full-day package through a Port Blair travel desk often works out similar or cheaper than arranging transport and entry separately.

Essential Tips for Visiting Jolly Buoy Island

• Confirm it's open before planning: The island closes for roughly four months during the monsoon — check current dates before booking flights or ferries around it.
• Book your slot in advance: Daily visitor caps mean walk-up access isn't guaranteed, especially in peak season.
• Leave plastic behind: Repack snacks and water into non-plastic containers where possible to avoid issues at the entry check.
• Start early: The road transfer to Wandoor means an early departure gets you more time on the water before the return journey.
• Pack your own food: There's nothing to buy on the island itself.
• Don't expect it to feel like North Bay: Jolly Buoy is quieter, more regulated, and less commercial — that's exactly what preserves the reef.

Frequently Asked Questions