Located in the easterly side of the Andaman archipelago, the Barren Island is home to South Asia’s only active volcano. Barren Island is geologically connected to the massive tectonic rim known as the Ring of Fire, famous for volcanoes and earthquakes. Volcanoic Barren Island is geologically connected to the massive tectonic rim known as the Ring of Fire, famous for volcanoes and earthquakes. Eruptions occurred in the Barren Island have been recorded since 1787. So far the last erruption happened in September, 2025.
Though tourists are not allowed on the island for safety reasons, there are cruise arrengements that take tourists to the edge of the island from where you can see breathtaking views of the volcano’s ash plume. The volcano occasionally disgorges thick, sludgy lava and that can be witnessed from cruise vessels. The island is located around 138 kilometers northeast of Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The island is surrunded by coral reefs with hard and soft corals which altogether forms rich habitat for colourful fishes. Marine mammels like dolphins, endangered dugongs and sperm whales also seen around the island. Feral goats, rodents, fruit bats inhabit the island. Vegetation on the island mainly consists of hardy grass, shurbs and trees like figs which can survive the acidic volcanic soil and withstand high temperature.
The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) under Andaman & Nicobar Administration has officially launched a special night cruise service (by M V Sindhu/ M V Nalanda) for travellers to experience the rare natural spectacle of the Barren Island. The 18-hour round trip voyage starts from the Haddo Jetty, Port Blair. The cruise has completed two successful sailings in November, 2025.
Fare ranges from Rs. 3,180 to Rs. 8310 per person. Meals are not included in this price. Passengers can buy food coupon on board.
Contact: The Directorate of Shipping Services (Andaman & Nicobar Administration): Helpline No. 1800-345-2714. Email: dsspbhelpdesk@gmail.com
Photo courtesy: Respectively from top –
Incredible India
le chaudron de vulcain
Andaman Tourism
Blue Andaman Tour
