The Directorate of Shipping Services has released the schedule for its December 2025 round voyage to Barren Island, following what officials described as strong interest from both tourists and island residents. The exclusive cruise, which offers one of the region’s rare opportunities to witness South Asia’s only active volcano, will operate two departures next month, drawing focus once again to one of the Andaman Sea’s most remarkable natural landmarks.
According to the announcement, the vessel Nalanda has been scheduled to sail on 12 December and again on 26 December, with both departures set for 2100 hours. These voyages are part of a limited route that has historically drawn visitors seeking a close view of the volcanic landscape, which remains inaccessible by road or regular ferry routes. The round voyage format allows passengers to experience the island’s dramatic setting from the water, a vantage point viewed as the safest and most sustainable means of observing the site.
The December schedule comes after recent seasonal demand, with previous voyages experiencing brisk uptake as weather conditions stabilised and peak travel months approached. DSS has stated that the tickets for the upcoming sailings will be made available through its e-ticketing portal, which will open for bookings round-the-clock beginning 24 November at 0900 hours. The department has also circulated a QR code directing users to the portal, aiming to streamline digital access and minimise congestion at physical counters.
Barren Island, located roughly 135 km northeast of the archipelago’s main population centres, has long been a subject of scientific and tourist interest. The volcano, known for intermittent activity over the years, is considered one of the region’s most unpredictable natural features. Although visitors are restricted from stepping onto the island itself, the round voyage allows safe viewing from offshore distance, offering glimpses of the rugged terrain, steam plumes, and dark basalt formations that define the island’s geography. These features have made the sailings a notable attraction for travellers who wish to explore the lesser-seen aspects of the archipelago’s landscape.
For DSS, the voyages also represent part of a wider strategy to support controlled tourism in ecologically sensitive zones. The department has maintained regulated access to the area, limiting the number of voyages and enforcing strict safety protocols onboard. Officials familiar with the operations point out that demand typically rises during winter months, when clearer weather improves visibility around the island.
The announcement notes that passengers are encouraged to secure their tickets early, given the limited number of seats and historically high interest in the route. Past sailings have often reached capacity well ahead of schedule, particularly during the holiday season, when both island residents and visitors look for unique experiences within the region. The digital booking system, which has been prioritised over counter-based sales, is expected to make the reservation process faster and more accessible for the public.
Beyond its appeal as a natural spectacle, the Barren Island round voyage offers an insight into one of the archipelago’s remote geophysical formations. While the volcano’s activity remains closely monitored by scientific agencies, the controlled viewing offered through DSS voyages provides a safe and regulated way for the public to witness the phenomenon. The December schedule, with its two well-timed departures, is expected to attract a mix of tourists, photographers, naturalists, and local residents who value the rare opportunity.
With bookings opening shortly and the holiday season approaching, DSS anticipates a strong response to the December sailings. The department’s announcement reflects ongoing efforts to balance public interest with operational safety, offering a curated view of one of the Andaman Sea’s most distinctive natural sites.
