Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance of the Vizag–Andaman Sea Route
- Best Time to Sail
- Cruise Options, Classes & Schedules
- How to Reach the Departure Port & Boarding Process
- Onboard Experience: What to Expect
- Estimated Costs & Budget Planning
- Top Things to Do in Andaman After You Arrive
- Nearby Attractions & Island Hopping
- Accommodation Guide
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- Permits, Safety & Responsible Travel
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Cruise Trips to Andaman from Vizag: A Complete Guide
Sailing from Visakhapatnam (Vizag) to the Andaman Islands is one of India’s most evocative sea journeys. Over three serene days on the Bay of Bengal, you’ll trade city skylines for open horizons, arriving to coral reefs, emerald forests, and white-sand beaches at Port Blair. This guide covers the practicalities of ships, schedules, costs, and what to do when you land—plus smart tips for families, honeymooners, and friends.
History & Importance of the Vizag–Andaman Sea Route
Vizag’s deep-water port has long connected mainland India with the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. During World War II and after, these sea lanes were vital for logistics. Today, government-operated passenger ships remain a lifeline for residents and a slow-travel alternative for visitors seeking a classic ocean crossing to Port Blair.
Best Time to Sail
- October to May: Generally the best window. Seas are calmer, visibility is better, and island excursions are in full swing.
- November to April: Sweet spot for smooth crossings and beach days.
- June to September (Monsoon): Expect rougher seas, occasional delays/cancellations, and limited island visibility for snorkeling/diving.
- Weather watch: Cyclonic systems can form Oct–Dec; keep plans flexible and monitor advisories.
Cruise Options, Classes & Schedules
From Vizag, sailings to Port Blair are operated by the Andaman & Nicobar Administration (Directorate of Shipping Services). These are passenger ships—not luxury cruise liners.
Key Points
- Frequency: Vizag–Port Blair departures are occasional/seasonal, typically less frequent than Chennai or Kolkata. Schedules are announced periodically and can change.
- Duration: Approximately 60–72 hours (about 3 days), depending on sea conditions and routing.
- Vessels: Government passenger ships with basic to comfortable cabins. Amenities include canteen, medical bay, and deck areas.
- Classes: Bunk/Second Class (dorm-style berths), Cabin (2–4 berth private), Deluxe/Suite (limited inventory).
- Booking: Through official A&N shipping counters and the administration’s ticketing system. Quotas may prioritize island residents; general seats are limited—book early.
- What it’s not: There are no regular private luxury cruises from Vizag to Andaman.
How to Reach the Departure Port & Boarding Process
Getting to the Vizag Port
- City access: Visakhapatnam is well connected by air, rail, and road. The port area is within city limits; use a cab or auto to reach the designated passenger terminal (as per your ticket/boarding pass).
- Report time: Arrive 4–5 hours before departure for security checks, baggage scan, and immigration/formalities (for foreign nationals).
Documents & Formalities
- Indians: Government photo ID matching the ticket; tickets for all passengers, including minors (carry birth certificate for age proof if needed).
- Foreign nationals: Passport, Indian visa, and permits as applicable (see “Permits” section).
- Restricted items: Follow ship/port guidelines. Flammables, sharp objects, and contraband are prohibited. Alcohol consumption is generally not permitted onboard.
Baggage
- Allowance: Standard free allowance applies; excess baggage is chargeable. Keep valuables and documents in cabin/hand baggage.
- Packing: Use lockable, weather-resistant bags; label everything clearly.
Onboard Experience: What to Expect
- Cabins & berths: Clean, functional spaces; cabins usually have attached washrooms, berths use shared facilities.
- Meals: Served via onboard canteen (simple Indian meals, snacks, tea/coffee). Carry snacks and a reusable bottle.
- Connectivity: Mobile network is patchy to none mid-sea; no Wi‑Fi. Download offline entertainment.
- Health: Seasickness medication helps. Stay hydrated, choose mid-ship lower berths/cabins for stability.
- Atmosphere: Quiet, unhurried sea days—sunrises, sunsets, and starry skies are the highlights.
Estimated Costs & Budget Planning
Ship Fare (one-way, indicative)
- Bunk/Second Class: INR 3,000–6,000 per person
- Cabin (2–4 berth): INR 7,000–12,000 per person
- Deluxe/Suite (limited): INR 12,000–15,000+ per person
Notes: Taxes, port charges, and meals may be extra. Prices vary by season, class, and availability.
After Arrival in Andaman (per day, indicative)
- Budget traveler: INR 2,000–3,500 (local transport, budget room, simple meals, entry fees)
- Mid-range: INR 5,000–10,000 (comfortable hotels/resorts, guided activities)
- Premium: INR 12,000–25,000+ (beachfront resorts, private transfers/dives)
Island transfers (ferries/speedboats) and activities (scuba, sea walk) are additional.
Top Things to Do in Andaman After You Arrive
- Cellular Jail, Port Blair: Explore India’s freedom history; attend the evening light & sound show.
- Radhanagar Beach (Swaraj Dweep/Havelock): Powdery sand and turquoise waters; epic sunsets.
- Snorkeling/Diving: North Bay, Elephant Beach, Neil’s Bharatpur—ideal for first-timers; advanced dives at deeper sites.
- Jolly Buoy/Red Skin Islands: Glass-bottom boats and vibrant reefs (seasonal permits apply).
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mangrove creeks (day trip; permits and early start required).
- Chidiya Tapu: Sunset point with birdlife and coastal views.
Nearby Attractions & Island Hopping
From Port Blair
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): Ruins reclaimed by nature; quick hop by boat.
- North Bay Island: Coral viewing, snorkeling, sea walk.
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): Radhanagar, Elephant Beach, Kalapathar.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil): Laxmanpur sunset, Natural Bridge, Bharatpur Beach.
Tip: Book inter-island ferries in advance during peak season.
Accommodation Guide
- Port Blair: Budget stays near Aberdeen Bazaar/Phoenix Bay; mid-range by the seafront; a few boutique properties.
- Havelock: Beachside cottages at Govind Nagar/Beach No. 5; premium resorts near Radhanagar.
- Neil: Quiet guesthouses and mid-range beachfront hotels around Laxmanpur/Bharatpur.
Indicative nightly rates: Budget INR 1,200–2,500; Mid-range INR 3,000–7,000; Premium INR 7,000–20,000+ (seasonal).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood: Grilled fish, crab, prawn curries.
- Island thalis: Simple, hearty meals with rice and local sides.
- Street eats: Samosas, chaat, momos in Port Blair markets.
- Desserts: Coconut-based sweets, seasonal fruits.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar: Handicrafts, shell and coconut products, spices.
- Important: Avoid buying corals, turtle shells, or any wildlife products—illegal and harmful to reefs.
Culture & Etiquette
- Respect Indigenous communities: Do not attempt visits or photography; many areas are strictly off-limits.
- Eco-ethic: Carry back all plastic; reefs are fragile—no touching/stepping on corals.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Choose a cabin with attached washroom for convenience.
- Pack motion-sickness bands/meds, snacks, coloring books, and offline shows.
- Carry a small first-aid kit and extra water.
Honeymooners
- Book a private cabin; travel outside monsoon for smoother seas and clear waters.
- Plan 2–3 nights in Havelock for beaches and sunsets; add a day in Neil for quiet time.
Friends/Backpackers
- Bunk class is the most economical—pack earplugs and a light blanket.
- Keep schedules flexible to absorb weather delays.
Packing Essentials
- Reusable bottle, dry bags, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, quick-dry towel.
- Power bank, extension cord, offline maps and tickets.
- Snorkel mask (optional), basic meds, photocopies of IDs.
Permits, Safety & Responsible Travel
- Permits: Indian citizens do not need permits for Port Blair, Havelock, or Neil. Foreign nationals typically require a Restricted Area Permit (often issued on arrival at Port Blair); some islands remain prohibited to all tourists.
- Activity permits: Jolly Buoy/Red Skin and certain excursions need day permits; plastic is restricted.
- Safety: Obey crew instructions; avoid night swims; watch for jellyfish flags; carry travel insurance that covers sea travel and water sports.
- Backup plans: Sea schedules can shift—keep buffer days before return flights.
FAQs
Q: Is there a direct cruise from Vizag to Andaman?
A: Yes, but they are government-operated passenger ships with limited, irregular frequency compared to Chennai/Kolkata. There are no regular private luxury cruises on this route.
Q: How long does the Vizag–Port Blair ship take?
A: Typically 60–72 hours (around 3 days), depending on sea conditions and routing.
Q: What is the best time to sail from Vizag?
A: October to May, with November–April offering the calmest seas and best island weather.
Q: Can I carry my car or bike on the ship?
A: Tourist vehicles are generally not transported on these passenger ships. Use local rentals in Port Blair/Havelock/Neil.
Q: What documents are required for boarding?
A: Indians need a valid government photo ID and ticket. Foreigners need passport, Indian visa, and permits as applicable. Carry IDs for minors as well.
Conclusion
Sailing from Vizag to the Andaman Islands is a memorable slow-travel experience, pairing classic ocean days with island adventures. Plan around the October–May window, secure your preferred cabin early, budget for ferries and activities after arrival, and keep a flexible schedule. With thoughtful preparation, the Vizag–Andaman sea journey can be both practical and deeply rewarding.
