Glass-bottom boat rides over coral reefs
Short glass-bottom boat excursions that let visitors view vibrant coral reefs and marine life without getting wet. Typical trips operate from Port Blair and combine glass-bottom boat rides at North Bay (easier, closer) and Jolly Buoy Island (protected marine park with excellent reefs) with optional snorkeling and island time. Ideal for families, non-swimmers and photographers.
Location
North Bay Island & Jolly Buoy Island (Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park), Port Blair (nearest mainland hub), India
Duration
Typical packages: North Bay glass-bottom ride 30–60 minutes. Combined Port Blair → Jolly Buoy full-day trip 6–10 hours (including transfers, boat ride, island time).
Best Time to Visit
November to April (dry season; calm seas and best underwater visibility). Avoid May–September monsoon months when trips are often suspended or visibility poor.
Pricing
Approx. INR 500–1,500 per person for a short glass-bottom ride at North Bay. Full-day combined trips to Jolly Buoy (boat + park permit + transfers) typically range INR 1,800–4,000 per person depending on group size, season, and inclusions. Park entry/permit for Jolly Buoy (Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park) and launch/harbour fees may be additional (usually INR 100–500 per person).
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
See colorful coral gardens from the dry comfort of a boat through a clear glass panel
Spot reef fish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and occasionally sea turtles and rays
Jolly Buoy lies inside Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park — one of the better-protected reef areas
Accessible to non-swimmers, children and those who prefer not to snorkel
Combine with snorkeling/swimming for closer reef views (where permitted)
Excellent photo opportunities for wide-angle shots of reef beds and schools of fish
Itinerary
Pickup from Port Blair hotels; transfer to Marina/Harbour
Carry ID for permits; arrive early to complete park/boat paperwork for Jolly Buoy trips.
Speedboat/ferry to North Bay island
Short ride; onboard briefing about safety and marine rules.
Glass-bottom boat ride at North Bay
20–40 minute ride viewing reefs close to shore; opportunity for photos.
Transfer to Jolly Buoy (for full-day trip) and glass-bottom viewing/snorkel
Glass-bottom viewing followed by snorkeling/swim time where permitted. Jolly Buoy has well-preserved reefs — visibility is usually better here.
Packed lunch / island relaxation
Some tours include lunch; confirm in advance. Follow park rules — no littering or touching corals.
More reef viewing, optional short beach walk, return to Port Blair
Return times vary with sea conditions and boat schedule.
Safety Requirements
Wear a life jacket during open-boat transfers and glass-bottom boat rides (usually provided)
Do not stand or lean over glass panels; follow crew instructions at all times
Do not touch or collect corals, shells or marine life — protected area rules apply
Avoid trips in rough sea conditions; consult your operator about cancellations during high wind/monsoon
Children should be supervised at all times
If snorkeling, ensure you are comfortable in water and use a buddy system; inform crew of any medical conditions
Tips
Book in advance during Nov–Feb (peak season) — Jolly Buoy permits and boat seats sell out quickly
Use biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen or wear a long-sleeve rash guard to protect reefs
Carry a waterproof camera or action camera for underwater or through-glass photos
Bring cash for local fees, tips and small purchases — some remote operators accept cash only
Check whether lunch, entry permits and snorkel gear are included; renting on-site can be limited
Respect park timings and rules — Jolly Buoy may be closed on certain days for conservation
If prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand; choose morning departures when seas are calmer
Keep a plastic bag for wet clothes and avoid single-use plastics to protect the marine environment
