Port Blair (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) – In a remarkable step for adventure tourism, the Barren Island—India’s only confirmed active volcano—has been brought within reach of travelers via a new fortnightly cruise service. Undertaken by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) under the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, the round‑voyage departs from Haddo Wharf in Port Blair on select Fridays at 9 pm and returns the following Saturday afternoon.
A Rare Geological Sight
Located roughly 140 km by sea from Port Blair, the volcanic island lies at the junction of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates and spans about 8.34 sq km.The volcanic activity there continues to draw scientific interest—and now, the voyage offers tourists a safe vantage point from which to witness this living geological phenomenon.
Voyage Outline & Cost
- Departure: Every second Friday at 21:00 from Haddo Wharf, Port Blair.T
- Arrival near the volcano: Early Saturday morning, providing a dawn view of the volcanic cone.
- Return leg: Commences around 08:00 Saturday and arrives back at Port Blair by about 16:00
- Fares per person:
- Coral Suite (2‑berth) ≈ ₹ 8,310
- Reef Suite (4‑berth) ≈ ₹ 6,340
- Island Breeze (6‑berth) ≈ ₹ 4,290
- Dormitory (16‑24 berth) ≈ ₹ 3,180
— Meals (bed tea, breakfast, lunch, high tea) are optional at ~₹ 2,000
- Booking: Online via DSS e‑ticketing portal.
- Important: No disembarkation on Barren Island is permitted; viewing is from the vessel only.
Why This Matters
This initiative marks a milestone for eco‑tourism and expedition‑style travel in the Andaman region, offering an experience that blends natural wonder, geological significance and marine voyage—all under official sanction. It also opens up a destination previously reserved primarily for scientists and specialists.
Considerations for Travelers
- As the cruise travels overnight and through open sea, sea‑sickness could be a factor—bring medication if needed.
- The monsoon months (rough seas) may affect departure schedules; ensure you have flexible plans.
- Since landing on the volcano is not allowed, the experience is observational rather than exploratory.
- Early booking is advised as cabins are limited and fares vary by berth type.
- Good photo gear and possibly binoculars will enhance your experience of the volcano at first light.
The Adventure Awaits
For mainland travelers from Delhi, Mumbai, or other major cities, this cruise offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey into one of India’s most extraordinary natural spectacles. While the voyage requires overnight travel and a modest level of adventure, it promises breathtaking views, unparalleled storytelling opportunities, and memories that will last a lifetime.
From the smoke rising from the volcanic cone to the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea, the Barren Island cruise is not just a trip—it’s an expedition into India’s living geological history.
