Andaman administration to launch round-voyage cruise service to India's only active volcano

The Andaman and Nicobar administration is launching a round-voyage cruise service from Port Blair to Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano.

Cruise Highlights
- Destination: Barren Island, located ~140 km from Port Blair.
- Experience: Spectacular views of the volcano from the ship — no disembarkation allowed.
- Launch Date: First voyage scheduled for October 24, 2025, with fortnightly trips planned, depending on weather conditions.
- Amenities: Multiple accommodation tiers and onboard food options.

About Barren Island
- Size: 8.34 sq km, completely uninhabited.
- Geology: Sits at the junction of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates.
- Recent Activity: Eruptions recorded as recently as September 13 and 20, 2025, with previous eruptions in 2022, 2017, 2005, and 1991.

Ticket Information
Booking: Tickets can be booked online through the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) e-ticketing portal https://dss.andamannicobar.gov.in/eticketing starting from October 11, 2025.

Fares: The ticket prices vary based on accommodation type:
Coral Suite (2-berth): ₹8,310 per head
Reef Suite (4-berth): ₹6,340 per head
Island Breeze (6-berth): ₹4,290 per head
Lagoon Dormitory (16 or 24-berth): ₹3,180 per head

Meal Options: An additional meal package is available for ₹2,000 per passenger, covering meals throughout the voyage.

This initiative is part of a broader push to boost tourism in the region while offering a rare glimpse of a natural marvel.