The passenger vessel Sindhu set sail from Haddo Wharf on the night of October 24, 2025, marking the beginning of a historic voyage to Barren Island aimed at promoting adventure and eco-tourism in the Andaman Islands. Organized under the A&N Administration, the journey attracted enthusiastic participation from students and the general public alike.
In the early hours of October 25, passengers were treated to a rare spectacle as the island’s active volcano glowed red against the night sky. The ship circled Barren Island at dawn, providing panoramic views of volcanic activity and a golden sunrise over the sea, creating a unique combination of natural beauty and scientific learning. The vessel returned to Sri Vijaya Puram by 2:30 PM the same day, concluding an unforgettable journey.
Students aboard the Sindhu described the experience as thrilling and educational. Master Stevenson, a Class XI student, said the voyage made learning about nature exciting, while Class XI student Jayashree called it “one of the most thrilling experiences” of her life. Accompanying teachers and coordinators noted the hands-on learning opportunities, praising the crew for ensuring both safety and comfort throughout the voyage.
Passengers lauded the professionalism of the Sindhu staff, highlighting cleanliness, courteous service, and well-managed onboard arrangements. Many described the trip as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, witnessing volcanic activity at close range while enjoying organized, comfortable travel conditions.
The Directorate of Shipping Services has announced upcoming round voyages to Barren Island in November 2025. The vessel Sindhu will sail on November 14 at 9 PM, followed by the Nalanda on November 28 at the same time. Tickets can be booked through the DSS e-ticketing portal, which will be operational 24×7 from October 27, 2025. A QR code for easy access has also been provided for convenience.
This initiative aims to combine adventure tourism with educational experiences, highlighting the geological uniqueness of Barren Island and creating opportunities for eco-conscious tourism in the region. By providing safe and well-organized voyages, the administration hopes to encourage greater public engagement with the islands’ natural wonders while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
