Barren Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Barren Island Day Trip

A boat journey to India's only active volcano — followed by diving or snorkeling over a seascape shaped by lava, ash, and black volcanic sand found nowhere else in the country.

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About this experience

Barren Island is India's only active volcano, rising out of the Andaman Sea roughly 140 km from Port Blair. It's uninhabited, remote, and reached only by a long boat journey — which is exactly what keeps its surrounding reefs so undisturbed.

The main draw beneath the surface is the volcanic topography itself: black sand, basalt rock, and coral that has colonised lava flows in a way you won't see anywhere else in the islands. This trip is built around the journey as much as the destination — expect a long day on the water either way.

Your day
1

Early departure

A long boat journey out from Havelock or Port Blair, with breakfast and safety briefing on board.

2

Arrival at Barren Island

Clearance checks on arrival, then time to see the volcano itself from the boat before gearing up.

3

Dive or snorkel the volcanic reef

Explore the reef and black volcanic sand around the island — diving or snorkeling depending on what you’ve booked.

4

The journey back

Lunch on board and a long return journey, arriving back in the evening.

What's included
  • Boat charter for the journey
  • Diving or snorkeling gear (per your booking)
  • Permits and clearance for Barren Island
  • Meals and refreshments on board
Good to know

Journey: the boat ride alone covers a long open-water distance — please confirm exact timing and whether this varies by season.

Seasickness: this is a long open-water journey; anyone prone to seasickness should come prepared.

Please note: trips depend on sea conditions and require advance permits/clearance — departures may be cancelled or rescheduled at short notice in rough weather.
Frequently asked questions
Barren Island is intermittently active, so what’s visible varies by trip — sometimes visible steam or minor activity, sometimes a quiet crater. Access itself can also be restricted during periods of heightened activity, so we’ll confirm current status when you enquire.
Yes — Barren Island's dive sites (Manta Point, Barren Garden, Purple Haze) are deep, with low visibility and strong currents, so this trip is generally for divers with advanced-level certification, not introductory divers.
The boat journey alone covers a long open-water distance each way — Barren Island is one of the more remote sites in the Andamans, which is also what keeps it undisturbed.
TimingEarly morning departure
FitnessModerate — mostly boat-based, long journey
LocationDeparts Havelock / Port Blair
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Ready to see India’s only active volcano?

Permits and weather windows need advance planning — enquire early for your dates.

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