A Milestone for Indian Maritime Tourism
Sindhu’s Historic Voyage Opens New Era in Andaman Tourism: In a landmark event, the passenger vessel ‘Sindhu’ successfully completed its first voyage to Barren Island, marking India’s entry into structured volcano-based tourism. The initiative, launched by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, aims to promote sustainable maritime tourism and provide public access to India’s only active volcano.
Static GK fact: Barren Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, is the only active volcano in South Asia, and one of the few known in the Indian Ocean.
Barren Island India’s Fiery Landmark
Located about 140 kilometres northeast of Port Blair, Barren Island stands as a geological marvel formed by volcanic activity at the convergence of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates. The volcano has erupted intermittently over the years, with major eruptions recorded in 1991, 1995, and 2017.
Previously, access to the island was restricted to scientists and research teams, but this new voyage introduces controlled public tourism, ensuring both safety and environmental protection.
Static GK Tip: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands form a union territory of India with over 570 islands, of which only about 30 are inhabited.
The Maiden Voyage Experience
The Sindhu departed from Haddo Wharf, Port Blair, at 9 PM on October 24, carrying 500 passengers, including 125 students from government schools. The voyage was flagged off by Chief Secretary Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, who highlighted the importance of this journey in boosting regional tourism and ocean-based learning.
At sunrise, passengers witnessed the glowing red crater of Barren Island—a spectacular sight described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The ship circled the island before returning to Port Blair within 24 hours, completing the historic round trip.
Features and Comforts of Sindhu
The Sindhu has been designed to offer both comfort and adventure. It includes four categories of accommodation: Coral Suite, Reef Suite, Island Breeze, and Lagoon Class, catering to diverse passenger needs.
An additional ₹2,000 covers all onboard meals, ensuring an affordable and inclusive experience for tourists and students alike. Facilities include clean cabins, guided tours, and eco-awareness sessions to promote responsible tourism in the region.
Static GK fact: The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and the Andaman Administration have played vital roles in connecting remote islands through passenger and cargo vessels, enhancing regional development and accessibility.
Boost to Andaman Tourism
This voyage signals a new chapter in Andaman tourism, diversifying beyond beaches and coral reefs to include geo-tourism and educational travel. The Sindhu’s success could pave the way for more such routes, potentially linking Havelock, Neil, and Little Andaman with eco-friendly tourism circuits.
The event demonstrates India’s growing focus on blue economy development, where tourism, maritime education, and conservation are integrated under one framework.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Sindhu’s Historic Voyage Opens New Era in Andaman Tourism:
| Topic | Detail |
| Vessel Name | Sindhu |
| Destination | Barren Island, India’s only active volcano |
| Distance from Port Blair | Around 140 km |
| Flagged off by | Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, Chief Secretary |
| Date of Voyage | October 24, 2025 |
| Passengers | 500, including 125 students |
| Accommodation Types | Coral Suite, Reef Suite, Island Breeze, Lagoon Class |
| Duration | Under 24 hours |
| Organizing Body | Andaman and Nicobar Administration |
| Significance | First passenger voyage to an active volcano, promoting sustainable tourism |
