If you ever wish to visit and experience an active volcano, here's an opportunity. India has only one active volcano and it is located at Barren Island in the Andaman and Nicobar. Soon, a round-voyage cruise will be launched, taking you from Andaman's capital, Port Blair, to Barren Island, offering tourists a spectacular view of the volcano. The 8.34 sq km island is uninhabited and lies at the junction of the Burmese and Indian tectonic plates. Its nearest habitation is Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) and Narcondam Lookout Post (LoP), which are nearly 140-150 km respectively from Barren Island.

Recent eruptions
The volcano erupted most recently, last month, on September 13 and 20. Before that, eruptions were reported in 2022, 2017, 2005 and 1991. As per reports, the first ever eruption happened in 1787. 

Pick a cruise company that has a proven track record as choosing the right firm is pivotal. Photo: Shutterstock/Zigres
The volcano erupted most recently, last month, on September 13 and 20. Photo: Shutterstock/Zigres

Cruise frequency
Commissioner Shipping and Managing Director of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Limited (ANIIDCO), Chanchal Yadav, told PTI that the cruise service will be available fortnightly, subject to weather conditions. The cruise will depart on Friday at 9 pm from Haddo Wharf in Port Blair and reach the Barren Island area early Saturday morning. It will leave the Barren Island vicinity by 8 am and reach Port Blair by 4 pm. The first voyage will be on October 24. The voyage will not have a disembarkation at Barren Island. 

Accommodation and food
There are four categories of accommodation, including Coral Suite (2 berth accommodation), Reef Suite (four berth), Island Breeze (six berth) and Lagoon (16/24 berth dormitory). Coral Suite and Reef Suite will cost around Rs 8,310 and Rs 6,340, respectively, per head. Island Breeze and Lagoon will cost around Rs 4,290 and Rs 3,180 per head. Apparently, the Coral and Reef Suites berths are already sold out. Island Breeze is 50 per cent sold out, and 21 berths out of 346 seats at dormitories have been sold so far, said Chanchal Yadav. Food will be provided for the entire round voyage for an additional charge of Rs 2,000 per passenger. This inclusive meal coupon covers breakfast and bed tea, snacks, high tea and lunch.  

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How to book tickets?
Travellers can book their tickets online via the Directorate of Shipping Services e-ticketing portal.
(With PTI inputs)

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