Barren Island, located approximately 138-140 km from Port Blair, is too far for a seakart trip, which lacks the range and capacity for such a remote journey. Instead, Barren Island tours are typically conducted via private charter boats or yachts, often from Port Blair or Havelock Island, and focus on viewing India’s only active volcano, with activities like snorkeling or game fishing.

Barren Island Tour: Overview

Barren Island, located in the Andaman Sea, is home to India’s only active volcano, part of a volcanic chain from Sumatra to Myanmar. It’s an uninhabited, restricted-entry area 138-140 km northeast of Port Blair, known for its raw volcanic landscape, lava flows, and vibrant marine life, including corals, manta rays, and exotic fish. The island is a protected area under the Barren Island Wildlife Sanctuary, and landing on the island is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns from volcanic activity (last eruption in 2022). Tours involve cruising around the island by boat, with opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, or game fishing, subject to permits.

Key Details of Barren Island Tours

• Location: Andaman Sea, ~138 km from Port Blair, ~100 km from Havelock Island.
• Access:
  • By Charter Boat/Yacht: The primary way to visit, departing from Port Blair (4-5 hours one way) or Havelock Island (2-3 hours one way). No passenger ferries operate to Barren Island.
  • By Seaplane: Aerial views are available from Port Blair on-demand, accommodating up to 7 passengers, but tickets are expensive and less common.
• Permits: Required from the Forest Department, Department of Fisheries, Police Marine Force, Port Management Board, and Indian Coast Guard. Tour operators typically arrange these. Indian nationals pay ~₹500-₹1,000; foreign nationals ~₹2,500.
• Activities:
  • Volcano Viewing: Observe lava formations, ash plumes, and the 2-km-wide caldera from a safe distance on the boat. The volcano’s eruptions are low on the Volcanic Explosivity Index (e.g., 2 in 2017).
  • Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Nutrient-rich waters offer vibrant corals, fish (e.g., Yellow Fin Tuna, Marlin), and manta rays. Requires additional permits and costs ~₹3,500-₹6,500 per dive.
  • Game Fishing: Popular for species like Sail Fish and Wahoo, often included in charters.
• Duration: Full-day trips (6-8 hours), starting early (3-4 a.m.) to maximize daylight. No overnight stays are allowed.
• Cost:
  • Private Charter: ~₹1,00,000-₹1,50,000 for up to 8 people, including fishing, snorkeling, and meals.
  • Shared Trip: ~₹25,000 per person, inclusive of activities and meals.
  • Guide Fees: ~₹2,500-₹5,000 per person, often included in charters.
• Best Time: October to May for calm seas and clear visibility. Monsoon (June-September) is unsuitable due to rough waters.

Why Visit Barren Island?

• Unique Attraction: Witness an active volcano, a rare geological wonder, with recent activity in 2018 and 2022.
• Marine Life: Crystal-clear waters host diverse marine species, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
• Adventure: Combines the thrill of a remote boat journey with activities like fishing and diving.
• Exclusivity: Limited accessibility and permits make it a unique, offbeat experience.

Challenges and Tips

• Restrictions: No landing or overnight stays; tours are boat-based only.
• Cost and Planning: High costs and permit requirements necessitate booking well in advance, especially during peak season (November-February).go2andaman.comtripadvisor.in
• Safety: Trips are safe with certified operators, but weather conditions can affect schedules. Follow operator guidelines and pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks.

Recommendations

• Book Early: Contact operators for permits and availability.
• Havelock as a Base: If staying in Havelock, it’s closer (100 km) and reduces travel time compared to Port Blair. Take a ferry from Port Blair to Havelock first.