As the clock ticks toward the end of 2025, the Andaman and Nicobar administration is charting a unique course for New Year’s Eve revelers: a cruise voyage to Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano. Operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) aboard the MV Swaraj Dweep, this special journey promises not just a festive celebration, but also an up-close encounter with one of the country’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
The cruise is set to depart from Haddo Wharf in Sri Vijaya Puram—formerly known as Port Blair—at 9 p.m. on December 31, 2025. Passengers will spend the night at sea, with the vessel scheduled to return by 2 p.m. on January 1, 2026. According to The Economic Times and The Hindu, the anticipation surrounding this event is palpable, with tickets already in high demand.
What’s drawing such overwhelming public response? For one, the chance to witness Barren Island’s volcanic majesty from a rare vantage point. The cruise offers a close-up view of the island, which lies nearly 140 kilometers by sea from Sri Vijaya Puram. As an official told The Economic Times, “This sea voyage will ensure a rare close-up view of the Barren Island, and an unforgettable countdown to the new year under the stars.”
But it’s not just about the scenery. The onboard experience is designed to be a celebration in itself. Passengers can expect music, exotic food, and a host of activities to ring in 2026. The MV Swaraj Dweep, with a capacity of 1,200 passengers, will be transformed into a floating venue for revelry, with catering services available throughout the journey. Multiple travel classes are offered, allowing guests to tailor their experience according to their comfort and budget preferences. Ticket prices range from Rs 3,180 to Rs 8,310 per person, depending on the chosen class, and can be booked directly through the Directorate of Shipping Services’ website.
“Passengers can choose from multiple travel classes based on comfort and budget preferences, while catering services will be available throughout the journey,” an official explained to The Hindu. The mix of luxury and adventure is clearly striking a chord; with the cruise already witnessing an overwhelming public response, those hoping to secure a spot are urged to act quickly.
The journey’s destination, Barren Island, is as fascinating as it is remote. The island spans an area of 8.34 square kilometers and sits at the tectonic crossroads between the Indian and Burmese plates. Its volcanic peak rises starkly from the Andaman Sea, shrouded in both scientific intrigue and a touch of danger. The nearest human habitation is Swaraj Dweep (formerly Havelock Island) and the Narcondam Lookout Post, underscoring just how isolated this volcanic outpost truly is.
According to government data cited by The Hindu, Barren Island’s volcanic activity has been sporadic but persistent. The first recorded eruption dates back to 1787, and the volcano has shown signs of life in recent decades, with mild eruptions occurring in 1991, 2005, 2017, 2022, and as recently as September and November of 2025. For many, the opportunity to witness such a dynamic geological feature—especially one that’s active—adds an extra layer of excitement to the voyage.
“This sea voyage will ensure a rare close-up view of the Barren Island, and an unforgettable countdown to the new year under the stars,” an official emphasized, echoing the sentiments of those eager to blend adventure with celebration. The cruise’s itinerary is carefully crafted to maximize both comfort and spectacle. Departing at night, passengers will have the chance to gaze at the starlit sky, far from city lights, before arriving near the island for a sunrise view and, perhaps, a glimpse of volcanic activity.
From a logistical standpoint, the Directorate of Shipping Services has left little to chance. The MV Swaraj Dweep is well-equipped to handle the demands of a festive crowd, offering a range of amenities and safety features. The option to select from various travel classes ensures inclusivity, catering to both budget travelers and those seeking a more luxurious experience. Onboard catering, meanwhile, promises to keep spirits high with a selection of exotic foods and beverages.
But what truly sets this cruise apart is its blend of natural wonder and festive spirit. The New Year’s Eve journey is not just a party at sea—it’s a chance to witness the raw power of nature, to reflect on the passage of time while surrounded by the ancient forces that have shaped the region. Barren Island’s location at the junction of two tectonic plates serves as a reminder of the planet’s restless energy, even as passengers toast to new beginnings.
For the Andaman and Nicobar administration, the cruise is also an opportunity to showcase the region’s unique attractions. Tourism has long been a pillar of the local economy, and events like this highlight the islands’ ability to offer experiences that are both exclusive and memorable. The cruise’s overwhelming response suggests a growing appetite for adventure tourism, particularly when paired with comfort and celebration.
Of course, the logistics of organizing such an event are not without challenges. Ensuring passenger safety, especially so close to an active volcano, requires careful planning and coordination with geological experts. The Directorate of Shipping Services has assured the public that all necessary precautions are being taken, and the vessel’s crew is trained to handle any contingencies.
As the countdown to December 31 begins, excitement continues to build. For those lucky enough to secure a ticket, the New Year’s Eve cruise to Barren Island promises to be an experience unlike any other—a night of music, food, and camaraderie, set against the dramatic backdrop of India’s only active volcano. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to welcome the future is by venturing into the unknown, surrounded by the beauty and unpredictability of nature.
With every detail meticulously planned and public enthusiasm running high, the stage is set for a New Year’s celebration that will linger in memory long after the last firework has faded from the sky.
