Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 16 December 2025
The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS), Andaman and Nicobar Administration, has announced a special New Year voyage of MV Swaraj Dweep to Barren Island on December 31, offering passengers a unique opportunity to usher in the New Year amidst the open seas of the Andaman. The exclusive sailing has been planned as a signature New Year event, combining maritime adventure with the scenic grandeur of Barren Island, the only active volcano in the Indian sub-continent.
As the year turns at sea, passengers aboard the vessel will experience panoramic ocean views and the striking sight of Barren Island, making the voyage a rare and memorable celebration of nature and festivity. With a carrying capacity of 1,200 passengers, MV Swaraj Dweep will undertake this round sea voyage as part of DSS’s efforts to promote safe, scenic and experiential maritime travel in the Islands.
According to the announced schedule, the vessel will depart from Haddo Wharf, Sri Vijaya Puram, at 9.00 pm on December 31, 2025, and reach the vicinity of Barren Island early in the morning on January 1, 2026. The return journey will commence at 8.00 am from the Barren Island vicinity, with arrival back at Sri Vijaya Puram expected around 2.00 pm the same day.
The fare structure has been fixed at Rs. 8,310 per head for Coral Suite (Deluxe Class), Rs. 6,340 for Reef Suite (First Class), Rs. 4,290 for Island Breeze (Second Class) and Rs. 3,180 for Lagoon (Bunk Class).
Onboard catering facilities will be available during the voyage, with tea, breakfast and lunch provided as per the existing canteen contract rates. Passengers will be required to purchase food coupons from the reception counter after boarding the vessel.
The DSS has invited tourists, islanders and the general public to avail themselves of this special New Year voyage. Tickets can be booked through the DSS e-ticketing portal, which will be available round-the-clock from 9.00 am on December 17, 2025. (Story Based on PR)
