Tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands just got a major boost with the launch of an exclusive fortnightly cruise service to Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano. The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) has introduced this new maritime experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, marking a milestone in the region’s growing travel offerings.
A Journey into the Heart of Nature’s Wonder
The cruise will set sail every alternate Friday at 9 p.m. from Haddo Wharf, Port Blair, reaching the Barren Island vicinity early Saturday morning. After offering passengers breathtaking views of the volcanic island and its surrounding waters, the ship will depart at 8 a.m. on Saturday, returning to Port Blair by 4 p.m. the same day.
Comfort Meets Adventure
To suit every traveller, the ship offers four distinct accommodation categories:
Coral Suite (2-berth) – Rs8,310 per head
Reef Suite (4-berth) – Rs6,340 per head
Island Breeze (6-berth) – Rs4,290 per head
Lagoon Dormitory (16/24-berth) – Rs3,180 per head
An optional Rs2,000 meal coupon covers an entire day’s food, including bed tea, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and high tea—ensuring passengers enjoy island flavours along the way.
Overwhelming Response from Travellers
According to officials, the cruise has already received an enthusiastic response. “Coral and Reef Suites are completely sold out, Island Breeze is 50% booked, and 21 berths out of 346 in dormitories have already been taken,” said the Commissioner of Shipping.
Adventure, Luxury, and Sustainability
DSS officials emphasized that the new service is not just a tourism initiative but a step toward eco-conscious adventure travel. “We are committed to offering a safe, comfortable, and memorable journey. All efforts are in place to make this voyage an unforgettable experience,” said the officer.
Travellers can book tickets online via the Directorate’s e-ticketing portal at
https://dss.andamannicobar.gov.in/eticketing
With the launch of this Barren Island cruise, Andaman’s tourism scene sails into an exciting new chapter — one that blends adventure, serenity, and the raw power of nature.
