Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Chennai to Andaman Cruise: Duration, Ships, Booking, What to Expect
- Top Cities and Places in Andaman
- Tourist Circuits After You Arrive
- Activities and Experiences
- Festivals and Events
- Suggested Itineraries (Post-Cruise)
- How to Reach Andaman from Chennai (Sea vs Air)
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Budget Tips for a Cruise-Led Andaman Trip
- Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Travel Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
- FAQs: Chennai to Andaman Cruise
- Conclusion
Introduction
A cruise journey from Chennai to the Andaman Islands is one of India’s most evocative sea voyages—three to four days across the Bay of Bengal, culminating in turquoise lagoons, rainforests, and historic Port Blair. This guide blends step-by-step cruise details with what to do once you arrive, so you can plan an end-to-end trip that’s smooth, safe, and memorable.
Chennai to Andaman Cruise: Duration, Ships, Booking, What to Expect
Overview
- Route: Chennai to Port Blair (Haddo Wharf/Phoenix Bay area).
- Duration: Approximately 60–72 hours (3–4 days), depending on sea and schedule.
- Operators: Government-operated passenger-cum-cargo ships (commonly known vessels include MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Nancowry, MV Nicobar). Names/availability change with maintenance and schedules.
- Frequency: Typically 2–4 sailings per month from Chennai (seasonal variations). Schedules are announced in advance and are subject to weather and operational updates.
- Private luxury cruise: There is no regular private luxury cruise liner on the Chennai–Port Blair sector as of the latest public schedules. Occasional charters/seasonal cruises may be announced; always verify current listings.
Booking and Tickets
- Where to book: Primarily through designated government counters in Chennai and Port Blair. Limited online windows may open via official portals when activated; treat online availability as variable.
- When to book: Sales usually open close to departure (often 10–20 days prior). Peak season seats sell fast.
- Classes: Deluxe cabin, 1st Class (2/4-berth), 2nd Class, and Bunk (dormitory). Cabins have shared or attached washrooms depending on class.
- Documents: Government-issued photo ID (passport for foreigners), printed or digital ticket, and any permits if specified by authorities.
Approximate Fares (subject to change)
- Bunk/Dorm: INR 2,000–3,500 (one-way)
- 2nd Class Cabin: INR 3,500–5,500
- 1st Class Cabin: INR 6,000–8,500
- Deluxe Cabin: INR 9,000–11,500
- Meals: Pay-as-you-go at the ship canteen (approx. INR 300–600 per meal).
Note: Fares vary by vessel, class, and notifications. Check the latest government circulars before purchase.
Boarding and Facilities
- Reporting time: Arrive 3–4 hours before departure for security and check-in.
- Baggage: Allowance varies by ship/class (often 25–40 kg). Oversize items may be restricted. Confirm printed rules on your ticket.
- Onboard: Air-conditioned spaces, cabins, cafeteria/galley, medical bay, seating lounges, deck areas. Power outlets are typically Indian-style.
- Connectivity: Expect little to no mobile signal mid-sea. Download music/books offline.
- Health & comfort: Carry motion-sickness medication; request lower-deck midship cabins for stability.
- Weather: Calmer seas generally Nov–Apr. Monsoon swells (May–Sep) and cyclonic systems can cause delays—keep buffer days.
Top Cities and Places in Andaman
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail light-and-sound show, Corbyn’s Cove, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, Chidiya Tapu sunset.
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): Radhanagar Beach (often rated among Asia’s best), Elephant Beach for snorkeling and water sports, Kalapathar Beach.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil): Bharatpur Beach (snorkeling/glass-bottom), Laxmanpur Beach sunset, Natural Bridge.
- NSCB Island (Ross) & North Bay: Ruins, deer, peacocks at Ross; sea walk and snorkeling at North Bay.
- Wandoor & Jolly Buoy/Red Skin: Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park—clear waters; plastic-free rules apply.
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mangroves (permits/checkpoints; guided tours recommended).
- Diglipur (North Andaman): Ross & Smith twin islands, Saddle Peak trek (for longer trips).
Tourist Circuits After You Arrive
- Classic 5–6 Day Circuit: Port Blair → Havelock → Neil → Port Blair
- Nature & Caves: Port Blair → Baratang → Havelock → Neil
- Extended North Andamans (8–9 Days): Port Blair → Havelock → Neil → Rangat → Diglipur → Port Blair
- Marine Park Focus: Port Blair → Wandoor → Jolly Buoy/Red Skin → Port Blair → Havelock
Activities and Experiences
- Scuba diving: Beginner try-dives and certified dives at Havelock and Neil.
- Snorkeling & sea walk: Elephant Beach, North Bay, Bharatpur Beach.
- Kayaking: Mangrove and (seasonal) bioluminescence paddles at Havelock.
- Trekking: Mount Harriet, Saddle Peak (experienced hikers).
- History & culture: Cellular Jail, Anthropological Museum, Ross Island ruins.
- Beaches & sunsets: Radhanagar, Laxmanpur, Chidiya Tapu.
Festivals and Events
- Island Tourism Festival (Jan): Cultural performances, food, crafts in Port Blair.
- Beach festivals (seasonal): Local music, food stalls, and community events at popular beaches.
- National holidays: Special programs at Cellular Jail and public venues.
Suggested Itineraries (Post-Cruise)
5 Days
- Day 1: Arrive Port Blair; Cellular Jail + light-and-sound show.
- Day 2: Ferry to Havelock; Radhanagar Beach.
- Day 3: Scuba/snorkeling; Kalapathar.
- Day 4: Ferry to Neil; Bharatpur + Laxmanpur sunset.
- Day 5: Return Port Blair; depart.
7 Days
- Days 1–2: Port Blair sightseeing (Samudrika, Corbyn’s Cove, Ross & North Bay).
- Days 3–4: Havelock (dive/Elephant Beach/Radhanagar).
- Day 5: Neil Island (Natural Bridge, beaches).
- Day 6: Wandoor + Marine Park.
- Day 7: Souvenirs at Aberdeen Bazaar; depart.
9 Days (with Baratang or North Andaman)
- Core as per 7 days, plus: Baratang caves/mangroves or 2 nights Diglipur for Ross & Smith + Saddle Peak.
How to Reach Andaman from Chennai (Sea vs Air)
By Sea (Cruise/Ship from Chennai)
- Terminal: Chennai Port (passenger embarkation area as notified in your ticket/circular).
- Check-in: Reach 3–4 hours early; carry government ID and printed ticket.
- Duration: About 60–72 hours to Port Blair.
- Pros: Scenic, unique, budget-friendly in lower classes, lower carbon per passenger than flying.
- Cons: Time-consuming, weather delays, limited connectivity, basic amenities.
By Air (Chennai to Port Blair)
- Flight time: ~2–2.5 hours non-stop.
- Typical one-way fare: INR 6,000–12,000 (off-peak); higher on holidays.
- Airlines: Multiple daily connections from Chennai; also via Bengaluru, Kolkata, Delhi.
Accommodation Options
- Budget (INR 1,200–2,500 per night): Guesthouses and homestays in Port Blair, simple beach stays in Neil.
- Mid-range (INR 3,000–7,000): Boutique resorts in Havelock, city hotels in Port Blair.
- Premium (INR 8,000–25,000+): Beachfront villas and upscale resorts, especially on Havelock.
Tip: Book inter-island ferries and accommodations together in peak months (Dec–Feb, May).
Estimated Costs
One-way Chennai → Port Blair by Ship (per adult)
- Fare: INR 2,000–11,500 (by class)
- Meals on board: INR 900–1,800 (for 3 days, basic canteen)
- Port/processing fees: Nominal (as per ticket)
Sample 6N/7D Land Costs in Andaman (per person, twin share)
- Budget: INR 18,000–28,000 (local transport, budget stays, a few activities)
- Mid-range: INR 30,000–55,000 (better resorts, 1–2 dives/sea walks)
- Premium: INR 60,000–1,20,000+ (upscale stays, private transfers, multiple activities)
Excludes long-haul flights if you choose to fly one way. Costs vary seasonally.
Budget Tips for a Cruise-Led Andaman Trip
- Pick Bunk/2nd Class for significant savings; carry a light blanket/sheet and earplugs.
- Travel in shoulder seasons (Feb–Mar, Oct–Nov) for better fares and calmer seas.
- Group up for 4-berth cabins to split costs without sacrificing comfort.
- Pre-book government ferries inter-island; private catamarans cost more but save time.
- Eat at local canteens and seafood shacks; try thali lunches for value.
Food, Shopping, and Culture
Food to Try
- Fresh seafood grills, crab/lobster curry, fish thalis.
- South Indian breakfasts and Bengali-influenced sweets.
- Vegetarian plates available widely in Port Blair and Havelock.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar (Port Blair): Spices, local crafts, souvenirs.
- Government emporiums: Ethically sourced handicrafts. Avoid buying coral, shells, or turtle-based items due to strict protection laws.
Culture & Etiquette
- Diverse communities speak Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and local languages.
- Respect protected and tribal areas; no contact or photography near restricted zones.
- Follow beach and marine park regulations; many sites are plastic-free.
Travel Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
Families
- Choose lower-deck cabins (less motion); carry kids’ meds and snacks.
- Plan short activity windows with rest time; prefer calm beaches like Bharatpur.
Honeymooners
- Book a private cabin class; time Radhanagar and Laxmanpur sunsets.
- Consider a couple’s dive or bioluminescence kayak (weather dependent).
Friends/Groups
- Reserve 4-berth cabins to stay together; bring games/books for the crossing.
- Mix budget ferries with a splurge day for diving or a private boat charter.
Packing & Safety
- Motion-sickness tablets, reusable water bottle, light jacket, quick-dry clothes, sunscreen, hat.
- Waterproof bag for electronics; cash for canteen and remote areas.
- Keep buffer days around sailing for weather-related changes.
FAQs: Chennai to Andaman Cruise
Q: How long does the ship take from Chennai to Port Blair?
A: Typically 60–72 hours (3–4 days), depending on the vessel and sea conditions.
Q: How do I book tickets for the Chennai–Andaman ship?
A: Tickets are primarily sold via designated government counters in Chennai and Port Blair. Limited online sales may open via official portals when enabled. Schedules and sales windows are announced via government notices.
Q: Is there a luxury cruise from Chennai to Andaman?
A: There is no regular private luxury cruise on this route as of the latest schedules. Government passenger ships operate most sailings; amenities are basic to comfortable depending on class.
Q: What’s the best time to sail?
A: Generally November to April offers calmer seas. Monsoon months (May–September) can be rough, and cyclonic systems may affect schedules. Always keep buffer days.
Q: Can I take my car or bike on the ship?
A: These are passenger-cum-cargo vessels, but personal vehicles are typically not transported for tourism. Check current cargo policies if you have special requirements.
Conclusion
The Chennai to Andaman cruise is an old-school sea adventure that pairs well with island time once you dock in Port Blair. With a little flexibility for weather, smart class selection, and clear plans for Havelock and Neil, you’ll balance budget, comfort, and experience—turning the voyage itself into a memorable part of your Andaman story.
