Things to do
Barren Island Trip. India's only active volcano, up close.
Barren Island is the only confirmed active volcano in South Asia — a smoking cinder cone rising straight out of the open ocean, ringed by black volcanic sand and some of the clearest water in the Andaman Sea. It's a full-day expedition by boat, and easily the most dramatic day trip in the islands.
The journey
You depart before dawn from Port Blair or Havelock aboard a fast, licensed charter boat. The crossing takes 3–4 hours each way across open sea — breakfast, refreshments and safety gear are on board. On arrival, the boat circles the island so you can see the volcanic cone, old lava flows and fumaroles from the water.
Landing & rules
Barren Island is a protected volcanic zone — landing on the island itself is not permitted, and all viewing is done from the boat at a safe distance. Permits and clearances are handled entirely by us as part of the booking.
What you'll see
The smoking crater, sheer black cliffs, volcanic beaches, and on calm days, dolphins and flying fish escorting the boat. The surrounding reefs are among the least disturbed in the region — snorkelling stops are included when sea conditions allow.
What to bring
Sunscreen, a hat, motion-sickness tablets if you're prone, and a camera with a zoom lens. We recommend this trip for guests comfortable with a long day on the water.
Highlights
- India's only active volcano
- Full-day charter expedition
- Permits & clearances included
- Dolphin sightings common
- Snorkelling stop when seas allow