Barren Island Travel Guide – Charter Boat, Trip Cost & Others
Plan your visit to Barren Island in Andaman! Discover charter boat options, and trip costs, and explore the unique volcanic landscape of this captivating destination.
Have you ever dreamed of witnessing a volcanic island up close? A trip to Barren Island offers an unparalleled experience as it is the only active volcano in India. Nestled in the Andaman and Nicobar Island, this remote island boasts stunning coral reefs, black lava fields, and an ever-smoking crater, making it a geological wonder and a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Barren Island in Andaman stands out for its unique geography and ecological significance, providing a rare opportunity to explore a natural marvel. Discover more about this exceptional place in our detailed blog.
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Key Facts About Barren Island
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How to Visit Barren Island From Port Blair
As of 2024, there are no regular government or private passenger ferries to Barren Island. The only way to reach the island is by booking a charter boat package from Port Blair. The journey takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions. Due to the island’s uninhabited and restricted status, these boats operate on request and do not run daily.
Charter Boat Operators:
- Andaman Island Travels
- Experience Andamans
Departure Timing:
Boats leave early in the morning between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM to ensure a return to Port Blair by 4:00 PM.
Offerings:
- Meals: Breakfast, beverages, lunch, and water.
- Safety: Life jackets and safety equipment.
- Activities: Scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, and sightseeing of the Barren Island volcano.
Price:
₹20,000 to ₹25,000 per person.
Booking:
- Reservations should be made at least 10 days in advance to secure government permits and avoid unavailability.
- Permit costs: ₹1000 for Indian nationals and ₹3500 for international visitors.
Capacity:
Each boat can accommodate up to 8 passengers, excluding crew members. Embarking on this journey provides a unique opportunity to explore around Barren Island, offering breathtaking views of the volcano in India and its surrounding marine life.
How To Visit Barren Island From Havelock?
From not only Port Blair, Havelock also departs regular and occasional charter boats to Barren Island from Havelock jetty, but the journey and duration of travel depend on the availability of group passengers with customized trip plans, type of boat, sea, and weather conditions.
Companies offering charter boats from Port Blair: Emerald Cruises, Local scuba operators.
Distance: 100 km; 2-3 hours by sea.
Departure timing from Havelock: 5:00 AM
Arrival timings at Havelock: 3:00 PM
Offerings: Witness sunrise and fishing activities. Breakfast, beverages, lunch, and water are given on board.
Price: ₹20,000 to ₹25,000 per person; total ₹1,50,000 per boat.
Booking: Reservations in groups must be made 5-10 days before the trip to collect government permits and avoid unavailability. Permits cost around ₹500 for Indians and ₹2500 for international visitors.
Capacity: Accommodate up to 12 people, including staff.
Things to Do on Barren Island
While landing on the uninhabited island is restricted due to safety and conservation concerns, visitors can enjoy an array of activities from shared or private charter boats anchored at a safe distance. Here’s what awaits adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts at Barren Island:
Witness a magical sunrise:
Watch as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the volcanic peak and surrounding areas, creating a breathtaking view.
Learn about volcanic activity:
Gain insights into the island’s volcanic history and eruptions through guided tours.
Take a circular trip around the island:
Explore around Barren Island, marveling at its black lava fields, smoking volcano, and dynamic landscapes from the safety of your boat.
Relax by the shores:
Absorb the warm sunlight and enjoy the peaceful surroundings as you cruise along the coastline.
Discover marine life:
Dive into the waters around Barren Island, teeming with colourful fish, Manta rays, and coral reefs. Divers can also witness underwater lava formations and hydrothermal vents.
Spot dolphins:
Experience the joy of dolphin spotting as they swim near your boat.
Try game fishing:
Engage in game fishing, a popular activity that draws anglers worldwide to Barren Island. With techniques like popping, jigging, and trolling, you can target prized species such as Giant Trevally, Dogtooth Tuna, and Sailfish in its rich waters.
Experience scuba diving:
Scuba diving near Barren Island is an exceptional adventure for advanced divers. Explore volcanic rock formations, vibrant coral gardens, and marine life like reef sharks, manta rays, and barracudas in its pristine underwater environment.
Capture stunning photographs:
Document the island’s volcanic terrain or take professional-quality underwater pictures of its marine biodiversity.
Observe unique bird life:
Watch migratory and rare bird species perched on the cliffs near the island.
Join research excursions:
Participate in studies to learn about life on Barren Island and its unique ecosystem.
Combine your visit with other islands:
Enhance your trip to Barren Island by exploring nearby destinations such as Neil Island and Havelock for a comprehensive Andaman adventure.
Travel Tips for Visiting Barren Island
To make the most of your visit to Barren Island, keep these tips in mind:
Plan your trip during the best season:
November to February offers calm seas, pleasant weather, and no volcanic activity, making it ideal for sightseeing and water activities.
Pack wisely:
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the tropical sun. Carry a high-quality camera and binoculars to capture the island’s volcanic beauty, and use waterproof bags to protect your belongings during the boat ride.
Follow safety guidelines:
Maintain a safe distance from the island and adhere to the instructions provided by your tour operator.
Respect restrictions:
While a circular tour around Barren Island is allowed, landing on the island is uninhabited and restricted for safety.
Secure necessary permits:
Obtain a special permit and any required clearance before your trip to ensure a hassle-free experience. Embark on a journey to Barren Island for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of raw natural beauty and geological wonder.
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