Planning a trip to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands? The Jolly Buoy Island day tour is often on travelers’ radar due to its reputation for pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. From the scenic boat ride to the chance to see corals through a glass-bottom boat, it sounds like a postcard-perfect day. But, as with any popular attraction, it’s worth digging a little deeper before booking.
This tour offers some definite highlights: beautiful scenery, a guided visit at the marine museum, and a glass-bottom boat ride that promises a glimpse into the underwater world. However, it’s not without its quirks—some guests have expressed disappointment over the coral condition and perceived value for money. We’ll walk you through what’s great, what to watch for, and whether this experience aligns with your travel style.
If you love scenic boat rides, natural beauty, and are okay with some limitations, this tour could be a good fit. But if you’re seeking a fully unspoiled snorkeling adventure or budget-friendly options, you might want to weigh your choices carefully.
Key Points
- Beautiful scenery and scenic boat rides make for a memorable day.
- Includes permits, boat transfers, and a glass-bottom boat—convenient for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience.
- Coral health and underwater visibility might not meet everyone’s expectations, based on recent reviews.
- Tour timing is early, with hotel pickups at 6:30 am, which means an early start.
- Limited inclusions—no meals or water sports, so plan accordingly.
- Concerns over price versus local options—some travelers found the deal less economical than booking directly.
What to Expect from the Jolly Buoy Island Day Trip
Looking for more options in Port Blair? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start Early for the Best Experience – Your day begins with a hotel pickup around 6:30 am, in an air-conditioned private cab. This early start is designed to avoid crowds and maximize your time on the island. The ride to Wandoor Jetty takes approximately an hour, but the scenic drive through the morning light is often more enjoyable than you might expect.
Visit the Marine Museum and Interpretation Center – Before heading out on the water, you’ll stop at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park’s Museum and Marine Interpretation Center. This 30-minute visit offers a quick overview of local marine flora and fauna, and a government-led visual presentation. It’s a helpful primer for understanding what you’re about to see underwater.
Ferry to Jolly Buoy – The boat ride from Wandoor Jetty to Jolly Buoy takes roughly 30-45 minutes. The ferry offers some lovely views, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch a clear day. Keep your camera ready for the scenic coastline and the open sea.
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride – One of the main draws is the 10-minute glass-bottom boat ride around the reef. It promises a peek into underwater coral formations and marine life without getting wet. Recent reviews suggest that the coral may not be as vibrant or intact as one might hope, with some guests noting that much of the coral appears dead or bleached. Still, it’s a fun way to see the marine environment, especially if snorkeling isn’t an option.
Relax on the Beach – The rest of your time on Jolly Buoy is usually free for swimming, relaxing, or exploring the pristine sands. The beaches here are often described as pristine, with soft white sand and clear blue waters. But, be aware that facilities might be basic, and water sports are not included in the package.
The Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in your tour are permits for Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Island, boat transfers, a 10-minute glass-bottom boat ride, and visits to the local museum. Transportation from your hotel within Port Blair city limits is also arranged, which saves you the hassle of organizing local transport.
What’s not included? No meals are provided, so consider packing snacks or planning to buy on the island. Water sports and camera tickets are also extras, which could add to your expenses if you’re eager to snorkel or take high-quality photos.
The Value and Pricing
At $57.58 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available, especially considering some reviews point out that local prices for similar experiences are lower. One reviewer noted, “The cost of the trip if bought or booked locally was much cheaper,” although they still enjoyed the island itself. The price includes the permit, boat rides, and museum visits, which makes it more convenient, but the actual experience’s value may vary depending on your expectations about coral health and the glass-bottom boat’s quality.
Keep in mind that booking online often involves service fees or commission, making it pricier than local arrangements. If you’re comfortable handling logistics on your own, you might save some money by exploring local options directly.
The Pros and Cons
Pluses include:
– The early start allows avoiding crowds and enjoying serene scenery.
– The smooth transportation from Port Blair city and all-important permits are taken care of.
– The glass-bottom boat provides a quick, no-fuss glimpse into underwater life.
– The marine museum offers educational value and insight into local ecosystems.
– Beautiful beaches await on arrival, perfect for relaxing or swimming.
Drawbacks noted:
– Coral degradation has been a point of disappointment for some visitors; nearly all dead coral was observed by one reviewer.
– The glass-bottom ride may not be as impressive as expected, with some describing it as a “disappointment.”
– The cost may seem high compared to the locally available options.
– No meals or additional water sports are included, so you should bring your own snacks or plan to buy on the island.
Who is This Tour Best For?
This trip suits travelers seeking a convenient, guided day on Jolly Buoy with all logistics sorted out. It’s ideal if you want a quick overview of the marine environment without the hassle of organizing permits or boat transfers yourself. The early start and included museum visit make it a solid choice for those wanting an organized, hassle-free experience.
However, if you’re after unspoiled coral reefs for snorkeling, or you’re on a tight budget, you might find better value elsewhere. It’s also worth noting that some recent guests felt the coral health was disappointing, which could affect your underwater expectations.
Final Thoughts
The Jolly Buoy Island day trip from Port Blair offers what many travelers are seeking: scenic boat rides, beautiful beaches, and some insight into the local marine life. The included permits and museum visit simplify your day, making it a straightforward way to enjoy part of the Andaman Islands.
That said, it’s important to approach this tour with realistic expectations, especially regarding the condition of the reefs. The early start and organized logistics are definite pluses, but the worth of the glass-bottom boat hinges on current coral health, which recent reviews suggest isn’t perfect.
Overall, this tour is best suited for those who value convenience and scenic relaxation over the thrill of vibrant underwater reefs. If you’re happy to pay a little extra for peace of mind and a structured day, it could be a worthwhile addition to your Andaman itinerary.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from hotels within Port Blair city limits in an air-conditioned private cab.
What time does the tour start?
Pickup is scheduled for 6:30 am, ensuring an early start to maximize your day.
Are permits for the island included?
Yes, the tour fee covers permits for Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island.
How long is the boat ride from Wandoor Jetty to the island?
The ferry ride lasts about 30-45 minutes, offering some scenic views along the way.
What does the glass-bottom boat ride include?
A 10-minute ride that provides a view of the reef and marine life beneath the water surface.
Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals are not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to buy food on the island.
Can I snorkel or do water sports?
Water sports are not part of the package and would incur additional costs if available.
Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the early start and boat transfers when planning with children.
To sum it up, the Jolly Buoy Island day trip offers a convenient way to enjoy some of the Andaman’s natural beauty, especially for those who appreciate guided, organized tours. While coral health and value for money are points to consider, the beaches and scenic boat rides still make it a worthwhile experience for many visitors. Just prepare for an early start, moderate facilities, and manage your expectations regarding underwater visibility.