Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance of the Havelock–Neil Ferry Route
- Ferry Options, Timings & Duration
- Best Time to Travel
- Tickets, Prices & Booking
- Boarding Points & Terminals
- Onboard Experience & Luggage
- Sample Itineraries
- Top Things to Do on Havelock & Neil
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach the Route Start
- Accommodation Options
- Food, Shopping & Local Culture
- Essential Tips for the Havelock–Neil Ferry
- Safety, Permits & Responsible Travel
- Estimated Trip Budget
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
The Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) to Neil (Shaheed Dweep) ferry is the most scenic and convenient way to hop between two of the Andaman Islands’ most loved getaways. With turquoise channels, quick sail times, and frequent departures in season, this short sea journey links Radhanagar’s legendary sunsets with Neil’s natural bridges and reefy lagoons. Here’s a complete, traveler-tested guide to schedules, prices, booking, terminals, and smart tips—so your island hopping feels effortless.
History & Importance of the Havelock–Neil Ferry Route
Inter-island ferries are the Andamans’ lifeline, moving residents, fresh produce, and travelers across scattered islands. Havelock and Neil—officially renamed Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep—sit close together in the Ritchie’s Archipelago, making their link one of the busiest leisure routes. The rise of high-speed catamarans over the past decade trimmed travel time to as little as 45–60 minutes, opening up day trips, split stays, and seamless itineraries for snorkelers and beach lovers.
Ferry Options, Timings & Duration
Types of Ferries
- Private high-speed ferries (seasonal frequency): Common operators include Makruzz, Nautika, Green Ocean, and Sea Link (services may vary by season and maintenance schedules).
- Government ferries: Slower, budget-friendly sailings operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS), subject to priority for residents and essential cargo.
Typical Duration
- Private high-speed: ~45–60 minutes (Havelock to Neil direct).
- Government ferries: ~60–90 minutes depending on vessel and sea state.
Usual Timings & Frequency
- High season (Oct–May): 1–3 departures most days; more options around mornings.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Fewer sailings; timings may change with weather advisories.
Note: Exact timings vary by operator and day. Always confirm on the operator’s official website or at local counters a day or two in advance.
Best Time to Travel
- Best overall: November to April for calmer seas, clear water, and dependable schedules.
- Shoulder months: October and May—good weather with slightly fewer crowds.
- Monsoon: June to September—lush but choppy seas, reduced frequency, possible delays or cancellations.
Tickets, Prices & Booking
Estimated Ticket Prices (One-Way)
- Private ferries: INR 1,100–2,400 per adult depending on class (Economy/Premium/Executive) and season.
- Government ferries: Approx. INR 200–600 per adult; limited tourist quota and variable availability.
- Child fares: Typically discounted; infant policies vary by operator.
Booking Methods
- Online: Book directly on operator websites for live availability and seat selection.
- Local counters & agents: Useful in monsoon or for last-minute seats; ask for printed receipts and final confirmed timings.
Seat Classes & Refunds
- Classes range from Economy (standard recliners) to Business/Executive (spacious seating and priority boarding on select boats).
- Changes/cancellations: Fees apply; policies differ by operator and fare class.
Carry a valid government photo ID matching your ticket name. Keep a digital and a printed copy of your e-ticket.
Boarding Points & Terminals
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) Jetty: Main jetty near Govind Nagar Village; signposted counters for different operators.
- Neil (Shaheed Dweep) Jetty: Near Bharatpur Beach/Neil Kendra; short transfers by auto-rickshaw to most stays.
Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure for check-in, security screening, and baggage tagging. A small port/terminal fee may be collected at entry. Facilities typically include seating areas, basic snacks, and washrooms.
Onboard Experience & Luggage
- Cabins: Air-conditioned, assigned seats; large windows on most high-speed boats.
- Services: Safety briefings, crew assistance, and usually a snack counter (menu varies).
- Seasickness: The channel can be bumpy—carry motion-sickness meds and sit midship for stability.
Luggage Allowance (Typical)
- Hand baggage: ~7 kg.
- Checked baggage: ~15–25 kg per passenger depending on operator/class.
- Excess baggage: Chargeable per kg; sports gear like dive kits may need prior intimation.
Prohibited items and hazardous materials are not allowed. Valuables should be in cabin baggage.
Sample Itineraries
One-Night Split: Havelock → Neil
- Day 1: Morning ferry to Neil; explore Bharatpur Beach water sports; sunset at Laxmanpur Beach.
- Day 2: Sunrise at Sitapur; mid-morning ferry to Havelock; afternoon at Radhanagar Beach.
Two-Night Immersion
- Day 1: Havelock—Elephant Beach snorkel trip; evening cafés at Govind Nagar.
- Day 2: Morning ferry to Neil; Natural Bridge and Laxmanpur; quiet evening under the stars.
- Day 3: Return to Port Blair via Neil or Havelock depending on your flight timing.
Top Things to Do on Havelock & Neil
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Radhanagar Beach: Silky sand, famed sunsets.
- Elephant Beach: Snorkeling, sea-walks, vibrant coral patches.
- Kalapathar Beach: Early-morning photo ops along black rock shores.
- Scuba diving: Reefs suitable for beginners to advanced; PADI/SSI centers available.
Neil (Shaheed Dweep)
- Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge): Walk at low tide to see arches and tide pools.
- Laxmanpur Beach: Best for golden-hour sunsets.
- Sitapur Beach: Quiet sunrises over open ocean.
- Bharatpur Beach: Lagoon-y waters, glass-bottom rides, beginner snorkels.
Nearby Attractions
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove, Anthropological Museum.
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): Ruins, deer, heritage trails.
- North Bay: Lighthouse viewpoint and snorkeling.
How to Reach the Route Start
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Direct/connecting flights from Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and others.
- Port Blair to Havelock/Neil: High-speed ferries (1–2.5 hours depending on island and vessel). Many travelers begin at Havelock, then hop to Neil, and return to Port Blair.
No regular public helicopters connect tourists on this short sector; ferries are the standard mode.
Accommodation Options
Both islands offer a spectrum of stays; book early in Dec–Feb and around long weekends.
- Budget (INR 1,200–3,000): Guesthouses, simple beach huts, backpacker hostels.
- Mid-range (INR 3,500–8,000): Boutique cottages, AC rooms near prime beaches.
- Premium/Luxury (INR 9,000–30,000+): Beachfront villas, private access to quiet coves, on-site dive centers.
Check that your property offers early breakfast or late check-out if your ferry is off-peak. Some stays coordinate transfers to/from jetties.
Food, Shopping & Local Culture
- Food: Fresh seafood grills, island curries, beachside cafés, and bakeries; vegetarian options widely available.
- Shopping: Handicrafts, coir products, spices. Avoid buying coral, shells, or turtle products—collection and trade are illegal.
- Culture: A friendly blend of Bengali, Tamil, Nicobarese, and Ranchi influences; island life is unhurried—plan with buffer time.
Essential Tips for the Havelock–Neil Ferry
- Arrive early: 45–60 minutes before departure for check-in and baggage tags.
- Weather buffer: Keep 1 buffer day in monsoon for possible rescheduling.
- Connectivity: Mobile data can be patchy; download e-tickets and offline maps.
- Cash & payments: UPI works in many places, but carry some cash for small vendors and port fees.
- Eco-care: Reef-safe sunscreen, no littering, and no touching/standing on corals.
For Families
- Choose morning sailings for calmer seas; pack snacks and entertainment for kids.
- Strollers can board but may need tagging; keep essentials in a daypack.
For Honeymooners
- Upgrade seats for quieter cabins and bigger windows.
- Time your hop to catch sunset at Laxmanpur (Neil) or Radhanagar (Havelock) the same day.
For Friends & Groups
- Block seats together early in peak season; coordinate activity start times with ferry schedules.
- Consider chartering local transport (jeep/auto) for fixed-price island loops.
Safety, Permits & Responsible Travel
- Safety: Follow crew instructions; remain seated in rough weather. If prone to motion sickness, take meds 30–60 minutes before boarding.
- Permits: Indian nationals travel freely within these islands. Foreign nationals must carry passport/visa; entry rules can change—confirm latest guidelines with local authorities when planning.
- Responsible travel: Do not carry or purchase shells/corals; avoid single-use plastics; respect no-swim flags and turtle nesting zones.
Estimated Trip Budget
Approximate per-person costs for a 3D/2N Port Blair–Havelock–Neil trip (excluding flights):
- Budget: INR 12,000–18,000
- Ferries: 2–3 legs = INR 2,000–4,000
- Stay: INR 1,200–3,000 per night
- Meals/local transport/activities: INR 1,500–2,500 per day
- Mid-range: INR 20,000–35,000
- Ferries premium classes, boutique stays, guided snorkeling
- Luxury: INR 45,000+
- Upscale resorts, executive ferry cabins, private excursions
Prices fluctuate by season and availability; confirm current rates before booking.
FAQs
Q: How long is the Havelock to Neil ferry ride?
A: Most high-speed boats take about 45–60 minutes; government ferries can take 60–90 minutes depending on the vessel and sea conditions.
Q: How much does a one-way ticket cost?
A: Private ferries typically cost INR 1,100–2,400 per adult depending on class and season; government ferries are cheaper (around INR 200–600) but have limited tourist seats.
Q: Can I book tickets on the same day?
A: Sometimes, especially outside peak months. In high season or during holidays, book at least 1–3 days in advance to secure preferred timings and seats.
Q: What is the baggage allowance?
A: Expect around 7 kg cabin and 15–25 kg checked baggage per passenger on private ferries. Excess is chargeable per kg. Policies vary by operator—check your ticket conditions.
Q: Are ferries reliable during monsoon?
A: Services operate but may see delays or cancellations due to rough seas. Keep flexible plans and monitor operator advisories.
Conclusion
The Havelock–Neil ferry is a short, scenic hop that unlocks two distinct island moods—Havelock’s epic beaches and diving, and Neil’s tranquil lagoons and arches. With smart timing, early bookings, and light, eco-friendly packing, the crossing is smooth and memorable. Use the guide above to align sailings with your island plans and enjoy effortless Andaman island-hopping.
