Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park | Islands, Timings & Private Boat to Jolly Buoy
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is one of India’s most important marine conservation zones, known for its thriving coral reefs, protected islands, and rich underwater biodiversity. Located near Wandoor in South Andaman, this marine park sits roughly 20–30 km from Port Blair and serves as the main gateway to some of the Andaman Islands’ most pristine waters.
The park is best known for iconic islands like Jolly Buoy and Red Skin, where visitors can experience snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, and clear views of coral gardens — all under strict conservation rules.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the park’s ecological importance, the islands that fall under it, what makes it special for visitors, how to reach it from Port Blair, and how to elevate your visit with an exclusive private boat experience to Jolly Buoy aboard MV Wave Rider.
What Is Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park?
History & Importance
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park was notified in 1983 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, granting it the highest legal protection given to any natural area in India. The park is a strictly protected marine zone where tourism is allowed only to promote environmental awareness and conservation, not mass tourism.
Size & Coverage
Comprises 15 islands
Total area: ~281.5 sq km
Land: ~60 sq km
Marine area: ~221.5 sq km
Forest Conservation remains the top priority, with controlled and seasonal visitor access
Tourist Access
Only Jolly Buoy Island: Open from November to May
& Red Skin Island: Open seasonally, usually in alternate months
Entry is limited to reduce human impact on sensitive ecosystems
List of Islands in the Marine National Park
Reference: Research paper from the Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park was notified on 24 May 1983 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to safeguard the rich marine biodiversity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, including coral reefs and nesting sea turtles. Located along the south-western coast of South Andaman in the Bay of Bengal, the park protects a vast and interconnected marine ecosystem comprising coral reefs, tropical rainforests, mangroves, and open sea habitats.
Jolly Buoy Island – The most popular island, known for vibrant coral reefs, visible Marine life, Snorkeling + Swimming + Glass Bottom Boat Rides, and crystal-clear waters, under regulated access.
Red Skin Island – Seasonal alternative to Jolly Buoy, Red Skin Island is open mostly from March to September, with similar corals and reef fish visibility, snorkeling + Swimming + Glass Bottom Boat Rides, and following regulated sustainable tourism guidelines.
(Protected & Restricted Islands)
Alexandria Island – An island with relatively undisturbed natural conditions, supporting marine and coastal biodiversity. Strictly Protected island; not open for tourism.
Boat Island – Known for fringing coral reefs around its shores. Due to ecological sensitivity, access is restricted and not open for regular tourism.
Hobday Island – A forested island contributing to both terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Tourism is not permitted.
Pluto Island – A small island forming part of the park’s core conservation zone. It supports coral reefs and reef-associated marine life.
Belle Island – Lesser-known island; restricted for ecological protection. Protected to preserve marine habitats. Closed to tourism.
Malay Island (Malay Tāpu, South Andaman) – An island with mangrove vegetation and surrounding coral formations. It supports diverse marine life and adds to the park’s ecological richness. The island is ecologically sensitive and remains closed to regular tourism.
Tarmugli Island – An Island noted for mangrove creeks, birdlife, and rich coral diversity. Access is limited and allowed only under strict regulations.
Twin Islands – Twin islets (North & South Twins). Noted for mangrove creeks, birdlife, reef system, and rich coral fish diversity. Access is limited and tightly regulated.
Chester Island – Features coral pinnacles and reef systems. The island is protected and not open for tourist movement.
Grub Island – Ecologically sensitive zone. A small island with healthy coral growth and marine fauna. Classified as a restricted conservation area.
Rifleman Island – A tiny protected islet within the park boundary, contributing to the overall marine ecosystem. No visitor access.
Rutland Island – Only the western portion of Rutland Island lies within the park. This Island lies within the park boundary and supports coral reefs and marine biodiversity. And Strictly protected from tourism.
Snob Island – A protected island surrounded by coral ecosystems. It is ecologically sensitive and remains closed to visitors.
Important Rules (For Both Islands)
No scuba diving
No fishing, coral collection, or shell picking
No plastic bottles, bags, or food waste
Entry permitted only via authorized boats
Activities are regulated under the Andaman & Nicobar Wildlife Protection Rules, 2008
How to Get to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Step 1 — Fly into Port Blair. Your journey starts at Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair. Direct flights are available from Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru, so getting here is easier than most people expect.
Step 2 — Make your way to Wandoor Jetty. Wandoor is about 29 km from Port Blair, roughly a 45 to 60-minute drive depending on traffic.
By taxi or cab: The easiest option. Expect to pay around ₹400–₹600 one-way. Most hotels can arrange this the night before.
By bus: Budget-friendly and perfectly doable. Buses to Wandoor depart from Aberdeen Bazaar Bus Stand via Bathubasti.
Step 3 — Board your boat
Shared 10-seater private boats depart at 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM from Wandoor Jetty.
MV Wave Rider departs at 8:00 AM. Book your private boat seat to Jolly Buoy Island in advance.
One thing to keep in mind, if sea winds go above 25 km/h, trips may be cancelled for safety. It's always worth a quick weather check the evening before, so you're not caught off guard.
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Tickets, Timings & What to Know Before You Go
Entry Fees
If you're booking MV Wave Rider, your permit is already included in the ticket price.
Park Timings: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed on: Mondays and public holidays
Pack These: Valid ID (or passport for foreign visitors), reusable water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, waterproof camera, and motion sickness tablets if the sea makes you queasy.
10 Tips You’ll Be Happy You Didn’t Miss
1. Book your boat early. November to January fills up fast, and MV Wave Rider slots don't last long once the season kicks in.
2. Choose MV Wave Rider. You're going to travel to one of India’s most beautiful islands in comfort. The difference is night and day.
3. Leave Port Blair by 6–7 AM. The boat departs Wandoor Jetty at 8 AM. Give yourself time for the 45-minute drive and any last-minute checks.
4. Don't stress about the permit. It's mandatory, but if you're on MV Wave Rider, it's already included in your ticket. Done.
5. Take the no-plastic rule seriously. This is a protected national park. Forest department staff check luggage at the jetty. No exceptions.
6. Wear your swimwear under your clothes. There are no changing rooms at Jolly Buoy.
7. Take everything back with you. Leave nothing behind, not a wrapper, not a bottle cap, nothing. The island stays beautiful because people like you make that choice.
8. Carry some cash. Digital payments aren't always reliable in remote areas. A small amount of cash goes a long way.
9. Check the weather the night before. If winds exceed 25 km/h, trips may be cancelled. A quick check saves you an early wake-up for nothing.
10. Visit the Marine Interpretation Centre first. It's right near the jetty and takes less than 15 minutes. A small thing that genuinely adds to the whole experience.
Conclusion
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is not just a destination. It's 281.5 km² of living, breathing ocean wonder with coral gardens, sea turtles, pristine islands & more. A place protected for over 40 years so that moments like yours can still exist.
Jolly Buoy Island is the crown jewel of this paradise. And the way you get there matters.
Skip the crowded shared ferry. Arrive refreshed, relaxed, and ready, aboard MV Wave Rider. With your permit sorted, a welcome drink in hand, WaveBites Café onboard, and a beach lounge chair waiting on arrival, every requirement of our passenger is taken care of. All you have to do is reserve slots and show up.
Jolly Buoy is only open from October to April. Slots go fast.
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Paradise is closer than you think. Experience it the right way.