If you’re looking for a serene escape from the hustle-bustle of daily life, Jolly Buoy Island in Andamans is the perfect destination for you. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and breathtaking coral reefs, Jolly Buoy Island has become a favorite among tourists seeking a slice of paradise. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the island, its history, how to get there, and what you can expect to find once you arrive.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History of Jolly Buoy Island
- Location and How to Get There
- Things to Do on Jolly Buoy Island
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
- Glass Bottom Boat Ride
- Beach Activities
- Nature Walk
- Bird Watching
- Best Time to Visit Jolly Buoy Island
- Accommodation Options on Jolly Buoy Island
- Tips for Visiting Jolly Buoy Island
- Conclusion
- FAQs
History of Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy Island is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The park was established in 1983 to protect the coral reefs and marine life in the area. It covers an area of 281.5 square kilometers, with 15 islands and several coral reefs.
Jolly Buoy Island was not open to tourists until recently due to its protected status. In 2018, the Andaman and Nicobar administration allowed visitors to the island, but with a limit of 120 visitors per day to preserve its ecological balance.
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Location and How to Get There
Jolly Buoy Island is located 30 km southwest of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. To get there, visitors must take a boat from Wandoor Beach, which is approximately 25 km from Port Blair. It takes around 30-45 minutes to reach the island by boat.
Visitors are not allowed to stay overnight on the island, so it’s recommended to plan your trip accordingly. The boat service to Jolly Buoy Island is available from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm, and visitors must return to Wandoor Beach by 4:00 pm.
Things to Do on Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy Island is known for its clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and rich marine life. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy on the island:
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities on Jolly Buoy Island. The island’s coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. Snorkeling and scuba diving equipment are available on rent on the island.
Glass Bottom Boat Ride
For those who prefer not to get wet, a glass-bottom boat ride is an excellent option to explore the underwater world of Jolly Buoy Island. The boat has a transparent glass bottom, allowing you to see the colorful coral reefs and marine life beneath the surface of the water.
Beach Activities
Jolly Buoy Island has two beaches – North Bay Beach and South Bay Beach. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The waters are calm and shallow, making it an ideal place for children to play.
Nature Walk
Jolly Buoy Island is known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors can take a nature walk on the island’s trails and spot various species of birds and butterflies.
Bird Watching
Jolly Buoy Island is home to several species of birds, including the Andaman Teal, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Andaman Serpent Eagle, and Andaman Crake. Birdwatchers can bring their binoculars and explore the island’s forests to spot these beautiful creatures.
Best Time to Visit Jolly Buoy Island
The best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island is between November and May when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, making it difficult to visit the island.
Accommodation Options on Jolly Buoy Island
As Jolly Buoy Island is a protected area, visitors are not allowed to stay overnight on the island. However, there are several accommodation options available near Wandoor Beach, including resorts, hotels, and guesthouses.
Tips for Visiting Jolly Buoy Island
- Plan your trip in advance and book your boat tickets early to avoid disappointment.
- Wear comfortable and lightweight clothes, preferably cotton, as the weather can be hot and humid.
- Don’t forget to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Pack a change of clothes and a towel if you plan to go swimming or snorkeling.
- Avoid littering and follow the park’s guidelines to preserve the island’s ecological balance.
Conclusion
Jolly Buoy Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape to a tropical paradise. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking coral reefs, Jolly Buoy Island offers a unique experience to its visitors. From snorkeling and scuba diving to bird watching and nature walks, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island.
FAQs
- Can I stay overnight on Jolly Buoy Island? No, visitors are not allowed to stay overnight on the island. However, there are several accommodation options available near Wandoor Beach.
- What is the best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island? The best time to visit Jolly Buoy Island is between November and May when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm.
- Is it possible to go scuba diving on Jolly Buoy Island? Yes, scuba diving is one of the popular activities on Jolly Buoy Island. Equipment is available on rent on the island.
- What should I pack for a trip to Jolly Buoy Island? Wear comfortable and lightweight clothes, preferably cotton, carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a change of clothes and a towel if you plan to go swimming or snorkeling.
- How many visitors are allowed on Jolly Buoy Island per day? To preserve its ecological balance, the Andaman and Nicobar administration allows a limit of 120 visitors per day to Jolly Buoy Island.
