Red Skin Island
🌟 Red Skin Island
Travel Guide
📍 Destination Highlights
✔ Distance from Port Blair Airport: 29 km
✔ Visiting Hours: 08:00 AM – 03:00 PM
🎟 Entry & Ticket Details
✔ Speed Boat Ticket: ₹1200 per person
✔ Forest Entry Ticket: ₹75 per person
✔ Permit Required: Yes, issued by the Forest Department (Advance booking recommended)
⏳ Trip Duration
✔ Ideal Visit Duration: 6 to 8 hours (Including travel time)
🏖 Facilities & Amenities
✔ Life Guard: Available
✔ Locker Room, Public Toilets, Changing Rooms: Available
✔ Food Options: Not Available (Carry packed food in non-plastic containers)
✔ Night Stay: Not Permitted
Red Skin Island, part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, offers a serene escape with clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a white sandy beach. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides, it’s a seasonal eco-tourism spot near Port Blair, perfect for nature lovers and marine life enthusiasts.
Highlights of Red Skin Island
✔️ No-plastic zone with strict environmental regulations
✔️ Crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs
✔️ Amazing snorkeling and glass-bottom boat experiences
✔️ Rich marine biodiversity, including colorful fish and corals
✔️ Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Distance & How to Reach
📍 From Port Blair: Approx. 30 km
🚤 Route: Travel by road to Wandoor Jetty (around 1 hour) → Take a government ferry to Jolly Buoy Island (45 minutes)
🚢 Ferry Timing: Morning departures only; return by afternoon
🔖 Permit Required: Entry permits are issued by the Forest Department, and advance booking is recommended.
Best Time to Visit
✔️ October to April: Best time for clear visibility and calm seas
❌ May to September: Closed due to monsoon and ecological preservation
Timings & Entry Fees
⏰ Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (only day trips allowed)
💰 Entry Fee: Applicable for permits and ferry tickets
🌱 Eco-Friendly Policy: No plastic is allowed; visitors must carry water bottles with a refundable deposit
Duration of Visit
🕒 Half-day trip (5–6 hours) including travel time
Major Attractions
🏝️ Pristine Beach: Soft white sands and clear waters
🐠 Snorkeling Zone: One of the best places for coral viewing
🚤 Glass-Bottom Boat Ride: Ideal for non-swimmers to explore underwater life
🌊 Marine Biodiversity: Spot clownfish, parrotfish, sea anemones, and more
Things to Do
✔️ Snorkeling: Experience vibrant corals and diverse marine species
✔️ Glass-Bottom Boat Ride: See marine life without getting wet
✔️ Photography: Capture breathtaking underwater and landscape views
✔️ Beach Relaxation: Enjoy sunbathing on the white sandy beach
Things to Carry
🎟️ Entry permit and ID proof
🩱 Swimwear for snorkeling
🕶️ Sunglasses & hat for sun protection
🌊 Towel & extra clothes
💧 Reusable water bottle (compulsory as per eco-rules)
📷 Underwater camera (optional)
Travel Tips
✔️ Arrive early to avoid rush and complete permit formalities
✔️ Carry only reusable water bottles (plastic is banned)
✔️ Snorkeling gear is available for rent, but bringing your own is recommended
✔️ Follow all eco-tourism guidelines to protect the marine environment
✔️ No food stalls; carry snacks (non-plastic packaging only)
Things to Avoid
❌ Carrying plastic bags, bottles, or wrappers
❌ Touching or damaging corals and marine life
❌ Staying beyond the designated visiting hours
❌ Littering or leaving behind waste
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Red Skin Island Tour Package
🌴 Red Skin Island Tour Itinerary – Day Trip from Port Blair
📌 Tour Highlights
- Explore one of the best snorkeling destinations in Andaman.
- Visit the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
- Enjoy vibrant coral reefs, marine life, and crystal-clear waters.
- Ideal for eco-tourism lovers and marine life enthusiasts.
- Limited daily entry (seasonal – typically May to October).
🕗 Detailed Itinerary
07:00 AM – Pickup from Hotel in Port Blair
- Meet your driver/guide at your Port Blair hotel.
- Begin the scenic drive (approx. 25 km) to Wandoor Jetty.
08:15 AM – Arrival at Wandoor Jetty
- Register for entry (ID proof required).
- Receive forest permits for visiting Red Skin Island (regulated by the forest department).
09:00 AM – Departure by Boat to Red Skin Island
- Board a government-operated or authorized boat.
- Enjoy a 30-40 minute ride through calm waters surrounded by mangroves and forested islands.
10:00 AM – Explore Red Skin Island
- Set foot on the uninhabited island known for its white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and marine biodiversity.
- Activities:
- Snorkeling (equipment may be provided by operators or bring your own).
- Glass-bottom boat ride (optional, payable onsite).
- Swimming in designated areas (subject to lifeguard approval).
- Relaxing and sunbathing.
01:00 PM – Return Boat Ride to Wandoor
- After a refreshing morning, return to the mainland via the same boat.
02:00 PM – Drive Back to Port Blair
- Lunch en route (at a local restaurant or resort – optional).
- Drop at hotel by 03:30 PM – 04:00 PM.
📋 Inclusions
- AC transfers from Port Blair (hotel pickup/drop).
- Boat transfer to Red Skin Island (subject to permit availability).
- Forest permits and entry tickets.
- Guide/escort services (optional).
❌ Exclusions
- Meals and beverages.
- Snorkeling gear (may be rented separately).
- Glass-bottom boat charges (if opted).
- Personal expenses and tips.
⚠️ Important Tips
- Red Skin Island is open only during May to October (Jolly Buoy Island opens in other months).
- Entry is limited and requires early permit booking – bring ID cards.
- No plastic is allowed on the island – carry reusable bottles and bags.
- Facilities are basic – carry sunscreen, hats, and packed snacks.
- This is a protected area – no overnight stay or fishing allowed.
🏝️ Activities at Red Skin Island
Red Skin Island offers a perfect blend of marine adventure and serene beachside relaxation. As part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, the island is known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and thriving underwater ecosystem. Here’s what visitors can enjoy:
🤿 Snorkelingat Red Skin Island
🐠 Experience – Discover vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life.
🌊 Highlights – Crystal-clear waters, colorful fish, and sea turtles.
👌 Ideal for – Both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
🔍 Visibility – Exceptional underwater clarity for an immersive experience.
🚤 Glass-Bottom Boat Ride at Red Skin Island
🐠 Experience – Observe vibrant marine life without getting wet.
🌊 Highlights – Coral reefs, colorful fish, and crystal-clear waters.
👨👩👧 Ideal for – Non-swimmers and families.
⏳ Duration – 15–20 minutes of underwater exploration.
🏖 Beach Picnic at Red Skin Island
🌅 Experience – Relax on pristine white sandy beaches.
🌊 Highlights – Stunning scenery, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere.
👨👩👧👦 Ideal for – Families, couples, and nature lovers.
♻ Tip – Carry eco-friendly snacks and follow no-plastic rules.
📸 Photography at Red Skin Island
🌅 Experience – Capture breathtaking landscapes and marine life.
🏝 Highlights – White sandy beaches, coral reefs, and exotic wildlife.
📷 Ideal for – Nature photographers and underwater photography enthusiasts.
💡 Tip – Use a waterproof camera for stunning underwater shots.
🌿 Nature Walk at Red Skin Island
🚶♂️ Experience – Explore lush green forests and diverse wildlife.
🦜 Highlights – Exotic birds, unique flora, and native reptiles.
🌎 Ideal for – Nature lovers and birdwatchers.
💡 Tip – Walk quietly to spot wildlife and respect eco-guidelines.
🧭 Travel Tips for Visiting Red Skin Island
📅 Plan in Advance
- ✅ Permits Required: Entry to Red Skin Island is regulated by the forest department. Obtain permits a day in advance through your tour operator or at the tourism office in Port Blair.
- ⏰ Limited Entry Slots: Visitor numbers are restricted daily—arrive early to avoid missing your spot.
- 📆 Seasonal Access Only: Red Skin Island is typically open from May to October. During other months, Jolly Buoy Island is the alternative.
🎒 What to Carry
- 🪪 Valid ID Proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.) – mandatory for permit verification.
- 💧 Reusable Water Bottles – no plastic allowed (plastic ban is strictly enforced).
- 🧴 Sunscreen & Hats – for sun protection as shade is limited on the island.
- 🥪 Light Snacks – carry dry food in eco-friendly containers (no littering).
- 👙 Swimwear & Towel – for swimming/snorkeling in designated areas.
- 🤿 Snorkeling Gear – may be rented, but carrying your own is more hygienic and reliable.
🚫 Things to Avoid
- ❌ No Plastic Allowed – plastic bottles, bags, and wrappers are prohibited.
- ❌ No Smoking or Alcohol – banned on the island as it’s a protected marine area.
- ❌ Don’t Touch Coral or Marine Life – help conserve the delicate ecosystem.
- ❌ Avoid Loud Noises or Music – preserve the natural environment.
🛥️ Boating and Safety Tips
- 👷 Wear Life Jackets – always wear the provided safety gear during boat rides.
- 👣 Follow Forest Department Rules – adhere to timings and zone restrictions.
- 🛟 Listen to Guides and Lifeguards – especially if swimming or snorkeling.
💡 Additional Tips
- 📷 Carry a Waterproof Camera or Pouch – perfect for capturing underwater shots.
- ⏳ Stay Within Time Limits – overstay is not allowed; boats leave on a fixed schedule.
- 🐠 Enjoy Glass-Bottom Boats – great alternative to snorkeling for non-swimmers.
Frequently
Asked Questions
✔ October to April: Best time with clear water visibility and calm seas.
❌ May to September: Closed due to the monsoon and ecological preservation.
Entry Permit & ID Proof
✔ Swimwear & Extra Clothes
✔ Sunglasses, Hat & Reef-Safe Sunscreen
✔ Reusable Water Bottle (Mandatory)
✔ Towel & Waterproof Bag
✔ Snorkeling Gear (Optional, or available for rent on-site)
Jolly Buoy Island is a no-plastic zone famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity. It is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and is a top destination for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides.
Jolly Buoy Island is 30 km from Port Blair, within Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park in the Andaman Islands.
No, the island is open only for a few months, typically from October to April. During other months, Red Skin Island serves as an alternative.
✔ Step 1: Travel by road from Port Blair to Wandoor Jetty (Approx. 1 hour)
✔ Step 2: Board a government ferry from Wandoor Jetty to Jolly Buoy Island (Approx. 45 minutes)
Yes, a Forest Department permit is required. Advance booking is recommended due to limited daily entry.
✔ Speed Boat Ticket: ₹1200 per person
✔ Forest Entry Permit: ₹75 per person
✔ Snorkeling & Glass-Bottom Boat Ride: Additional charges apply
Yes, Andaman Ocean Tours and Travels offers all-inclusive tour packages, covering:
✔ Hotel Transfers (Port Blair – Wandoor – Port Blair)
✔ Government Ferry Tickets
✔ Entry Permits
✔ Snorkeling & Glass-Bottom Boat Ride (if included in the package)
Snorkeling: Explore colorful coral reefs and marine species.
✔ Glass-Bottom Boat Ride: See marine life without getting wet.
✔ Beach Relaxation: Enjoy sunbathing on the white sandy beach.
✔ Photography: Capture breathtaking underwater and scenic views.
✔ Nature Walk: Explore the lush green forest and spot exotic birds.
Yes, the island is safe for families, including children and senior citizens. However, water activities may require supervision.
Yes, non-swimmers can take a glass-bottom boat ride to experience marine life without getting into the water.
❌ No, food stalls are not available. Visitors must carry their own food and drinking water in reusable containers (plastic is strictly prohibited).
✔ Yes, public toilets and changing rooms are available.
No, there are no accommodations available on Jolly Buoy Island. Visitors are allowed to visit the island only during the day and must return to the mainland before sunset.
❌ No, Jolly Buoy Island is a no-plastic zone. Visitors must carry reusable bottles and bags (checked at Wandoor Jetty).
✔ Arrive early to complete permit formalities.
✔ Book permits in advance (limited entry per day).
✔ Follow eco-tourism rules to protect marine life.
✔ Wear comfortable beachwear and carry essentials.
✔ Avoid touching corals and marine life to preserve the ecosystem.
Carrying plastic bags, bottles, or wrappers.
❌ Touching or damaging corals and marine life.
❌ Staying beyond the designated visiting hours.
❌ Littering or leaving waste behind.
You can book a hassle-free tour package with Andaman Ocean Tours and Travels, including permits, ferry tickets, and hotel transfers.
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