Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance of the Route
- Ferry Timings, Duration and Frequency
- Operators and Classes
- Fares and Estimated Costs
- How to Book Tickets
- Departure Jetties and Check-in
- Best Time to Travel
- How to Reach Port Blair
- Accommodation in Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Top Things to Do in Havelock
- Nearby Attractions and Island Hops
- Local Food, Shopping and Culture
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- Packing, Safety and Practical Tips
- Sample 3-Day Itinerary
- Budget Planning Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Planning a trip from Port Blair to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)? The ferry is the most scenic and practical way to reach Andaman’s poster-perfect beaches. This guide covers the latest practical details you need—typical ferry timings, operators, fares, booking steps, jetties, and expert travel tips—plus what to do, where to stay, and how to budget once you arrive.
History and Importance of the Route
Havelock Island evolved from a quiet outpost into the Andamans’ flagship beach destination after Radhanagar Beach gained global attention. The Port Blair–Havelock ferry route is the island’s lifeline—moving residents, workers, and visitors daily. Private high-speed catamarans have shortened journey times and improved comfort, while government ferries continue to offer affordable connectivity for all.
Ferry Timings, Duration and Frequency
Ferry schedules change with season, sea conditions, and operator maintenance. The outline below reflects common daily patterns; always reconfirm close to your travel date.
- First departures: 06:00–07:30 (most reliable, calm seas)
- Mid-morning: 08:00–10:00
- Noon to early afternoon: 11:30–13:30
- Last departures: 14:00–15:30 (fewer seats; subject to sea/weather)
Duration:
- Private high-speed catamarans (Makruzz, Nautika, Sea Link, Green Ocean 1/2): ~60–90 minutes
- Government ferries (DSS/Transport Directorate): ~120–150 minutes
Frequency: Typically 3–6 sailings daily in high season (Nov–Apr); fewer in monsoon (May–Sep). Public holidays and operational days can affect frequency.
Tip: Choose morning boats for smoother seas, better on-time performance, and easier same-day hotel check-ins or tours.
Operators and Classes
Major operators on the Port Blair ↔ Havelock sector include:
- Government Ferry (DSS): Budget-friendly, slower; open decks on some vessels; basic seating. Tickets often released close to travel date.
- Makruzz: Popular, air-conditioned catamarans; classes: Economy, Premium, Royal/Deluxe (names may vary by vessel).
- Nautika / Nautika Lite: Fast, modern catamarans with AC seating; multiple classes.
- Sea Link: AC seating; economy and premium sections.
- Green Ocean: Mix of seats and limited open areas on some boats; comfortable, scenic.
Onboard amenities (vary by operator): assigned seats, AC cabins, paid snacks/beverages, basic restrooms, limited charging points. Outside deck access is restricted on many private boats.
Fares and Estimated Costs
Indicative one-way fares (per adult):
- Government ferry: ₹400–₹1,000 (class-dependent; limited tourist seats)
- Private catamarans:
- Economy: ₹1,200–₹1,900
- Premium/Executive: ₹2,100–₹2,800
- Business/Royal: ₹3,000–₹3,800
Extra costs to consider: cab to jetty (₹200–₹700 within Port Blair), porterage (₹100–₹300 per bag), rescheduling fees, luggage surcharges beyond allowance.
Budget snapshot (per person, one-way trip day): Transport ₹1,200–₹2,800 + jetty transfers ₹200–₹700 + snacks ₹100–₹300.
How to Book Tickets
Booking windows: Private ferries often open 2–4 weeks out; government ferries may release seats closer to departure. High season sells out quickly.
Where to book:
- Government ferries: official counters in Port Blair (Phoenix Bay/Haddo Wharf) or online if available at the Transport/Shipping portal: https://dss.andaman.gov.in/booking
- Private ferries: official websites such as:
- Makruzz: https://www.makruzz.com
- Nautika: https://www.nautikaandaman.com
- Sea Link: https://www.sealinkandaman.com
- Green Ocean: https://www.greenoceanseaways.com
- Authorized local agents and hotel desks (service fees apply)
Documents: Government-issued photo ID (same name as on ticket). Carry a printed or mobile e-ticket.
Seat choice: Window seats sell fast; premium classes are quieter and better for motion sickness.
Departure Jetties and Check-in
- Common departure points in Port Blair: Phoenix Bay Jetty and Haddo Wharf (check your ticket for exact jetty and reporting hall)
- Arrival in Havelock: Havelock Jetty (Govind Nagar area)
- Check-in: Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure; security screening is mandatory
- Luggage: Private ferries typically include ~15–20 kg check-in + 7 kg cabin per person; policy varies—verify at booking
- Transfers: Pre-book a cab or arrange pickup with your Havelock hotel; shared autos are available at the jetty
Best Time to Travel
- November–April: Best seas and visibility; most sailings; ideal for snorkeling/diving
- May–September (Monsoon): Rougher seas, possible delays/cancellations, lush landscapes, fewer crowds
- October: Transitional; improving seas, warm weather
Tip: Always keep a buffer day for onward flights if traveling during monsoon or when cyclonic weather is forecast.
How to Reach Port Blair
- By Air: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) has direct flights from Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and seasonal links from other metros
- By Sea: Long-distance passenger ships from Chennai/Kolkata/Visakhapatnam sail a few times monthly; journeys take several days and are not practical for short trips
Most travelers fly into Port Blair and take the ferry the same or next morning.
Accommodation in Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Budget (₹1,200–₹3,000 per night): Guesthouses and homestays near Govind Nagar/Beach No. 3
- Mid-range (₹3,500–₹8,000): Beachfront cottages, boutique resorts around Beach No. 2/3/5
- Premium (₹9,000–₹25,000+): Luxury resorts near Radhanagar and secluded coves
Booking tip: Reserve early for Dec–Feb and long weekends; request early check-in if arriving on the first ferry.
Top Things to Do in Havelock
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Iconic sunset spot; wide, powdery sands
- Elephant Beach: Snorkeling and water sports; speedboat access from Havelock Jetty
- Kalapathar Beach: Serene sunrise shore with black rocks and turquoise water
- Diving & Courses: Try dives and Open Water certifications at reputable dive centers (Nemo Reef for beginners)
- Kayaking & Bioluminescence: Night mangrove paddles on new-moon nights
Nearby Attractions and Island Hops
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Day trip or 1-night hop; Natural Bridge, Bharatpur/Laxmanpur beaches
- Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep) & North Bay: Best from Port Blair; half-day heritage and snorkeling
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mangroves (long day trip from Port Blair)
Local Food, Shopping and Culture
- Food: Fresh seafood thalis, grilled fish, prawns; South Indian breakfasts; simple bakeries and beach shacks
- Shopping: Havelock market and Port Blair’s Aberdeen Bazaar for shells, coconut crafts, spices (avoid buying live coral/shells)
- Culture: A warm island mix—Bengali, South Indian, and local Andaman influences; relaxed pace and early nights
Traveler-Specific Tips
For Families
- Pick morning ferries for calmer seas and nap-friendly schedules
- Carry snacks, water, motion-sickness bands, and a light jacket (AC cabins can be chilly)
- Request adjacent seats and confirm stroller policy with your operator
For Honeymooners
- Choose premium cabins for quieter seating and early boarding
- Time your outbound ferry to catch Radhanagar’s sunset on Day 1
- Pre-book a private transfer from the jetty to your resort
For Friends/Groups
- Block seats together; consider mid-morning ferries after breakfast
- Split luggage to stay within allowances; pre-arrange a larger vehicle at arrival
- Check group discounts or agent-consolidated fares in peak season
Packing, Safety and Practical Tips
- Keep a buffer day before return flights; ferries can be weather-impacted
- Carry ID, printed e-tickets, and some cash (ATMs are limited)
- Dry bag, sunscreen (reef-safe), hat, light rain jacket (monsoon), seasickness meds if needed
- Respect no-plastic and no-litter norms; never touch coral or shells
- Mobile data works best with BSNL and Airtel; expect patchy coverage
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Morning ferry to Havelock → check-in → Kalapathar beach → sunset at Radhanagar
- Day 2: Early dive/snorkel at Nemo Reef → Elephant Beach water sports → café hop
- Day 3: Leisure morning → brunch → afternoon ferry back to Port Blair
Budget Planning Tips
- Book ferries and stays 3–6 weeks ahead for better prices
- Travel light to avoid luggage surcharges
- Eat local—seafood thalis and bakeries keep costs low
- Bundle water activities with one operator for value
FAQs
Q: What are the usual Port Blair to Havelock ferry timings?
A: Expect first departures around 06:00–07:30, mid-morning runs 08:00–10:00, noon/early afternoon 11:30–13:30, and last boats 14:00–15:30. Schedules vary by season and operator—always reconfirm before travel.
Q: How long is the ferry from Port Blair to Havelock?
A: Private catamarans take about 60–90 minutes; government ferries take roughly 120–150 minutes depending on the vessel and sea conditions.
Q: Which is the best ferry operator for comfort?
A: Makruzz, Nautika, Sea Link, and Green Ocean offer comfortable AC cabins with assigned seating. Premium classes are quieter and have better legroom. Government ferries are more economical but slower and simpler.
Q: How much do ferry tickets cost?
A: Private ferries generally cost ₹1,200–₹3,800 one-way per adult depending on class. Government ferries range roughly ₹400–₹1,000. Prices can change; check the official website before booking.
Q: From which jetty do ferries depart in Port Blair?
A: Most boats use Phoenix Bay Jetty or Haddo Wharf. Your ticket will mention the exact reporting point and check-in hall.
Conclusion
The Port Blair–Havelock ferry route is the gateway to Andaman’s most-loved beaches. With morning departures, reliable private catamarans, and budget-friendly government options, reaching Havelock is straightforward. Book early in peak season, travel light, keep a weather buffer, and you’ll arrive ready to enjoy Radhanagar sunsets, Elephant Beach adventures, and island hospitality.
