Team siliconindia

• Andaman and Nicobar administration to start a round-trip cruise from Port Blair to Barren Island
• Cruise offers spectacular views of India’s only active volcano without disembarkation
• Service begins October 24, operating fortnightly with multiple accommodation options

The Andaman and Nicobar administration is set to launch a special round-voyage cruise from Port Blair to Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano. This new service will provide tourists a rare chance to witness the volcanic island up close, making it a unique attraction in the region.

Located about 140 km from Port Blair, Barren Island sits at the meeting point of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates. Though uninhabited, its volcanic activity has been recorded since 1787, with recent eruptions in 2022 and September 2025.

The cruise, announced by Chanchal Yadav, Commissioner Shipping and Managing Director of ANIIDCO, will operate every two weeks starting October 24. The journey departs from Haddo Wharf at 9 p.m. on Fridays, arriving near Barren Island early Saturday morning. The return trip begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, with the cruise docking back in Port Blair by 4 p.m. the same day. Passengers will not disembark at the island but enjoy stunning views throughout the trip.

The cruise offers four accommodation types ranging from premium Coral and Reef Suites to budget friendly Island Breeze and dormitory style Lagoon options. Prices start from Rs 3,180 to Rs 8,310 per person. Food packages covering all meals during the trip are available for an extra Rs 2,000.

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Booking opened on October 11 via the Directorate of Shipping Services online portal. With high demand already seen for premium suites, this cruise is expected to boost tourism and offer memorable experiences for visitors to the Andaman Islands.