Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Port Blair Cruise Honeymoon Packages Overview
- Must-Visit Places in and around Port Blair
- Local Culture, Food and Shopping
- Nearby Getaways by Cruise/Ferry
- How to Reach Port Blair
- Accommodation Options for Honeymooners
- Best Time to Visit for a Cruise Honeymoon
- Activities and Experiences for Couples
- Tips for Different Traveler Types
- Practical Travel Information
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Port Blair, the gateway to India’s Andaman Islands, is a dreamy launchpad for a cruise-style honeymoon. Think jade lagoons, coral gardens, and slow-sway sunsets as you ferry between postcard-perfect islands like Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep). Whether you prefer a curated honeymoon package with inter-island catamarans and candlelight dinners or a private charter for uninterrupted romance, Port Blair delivers a blend of island charm and smooth logistics.
Port Blair Cruise Honeymoon Packages Overview
Why choose Port Blair for a cruise honeymoon
- Seamless island-hopping: Fast ferries connect Port Blair with Havelock and Neil for beach time, diving, and sunsets.
- Balanced experiences: Mix historical walks at Cellular Jail with coral cruises to North Bay and Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep).
- All budgets: From shared ferries and boutique stays to private yachts and luxury resorts.
Popular cruise styles
- Inter-island catamaran ferries (e.g., Port Blair–Havelock–Neil–Port Blair) with reserved seats or business class upgrades.
- Sunset/harbor cruises from Port Blair around Ross Island and North Bay.
- Glass-bottom boat rides and semi-sub experiences for corals (weather/season dependent).
- Private speedboat/catamaran charters for bespoke proposals, photoshoots, and secluded snorkel stops (availability and permits vary).
Sample romantic itineraries
4 Days / 3 Nights (Quick Escape)
- Day 1: Arrive Port Blair; sunset at Corbyn’s Cove; evening Sound & Light Show at Cellular Jail.
- Day 2: Morning ferry to Havelock; Radhanagar Beach; candlelight dinner at resort.
- Day 3: Snorkel/scuba at Elephant Beach; optional sunset cruise; return to Port Blair or stay in Havelock.
- Day 4: Fly out from Port Blair.
5 Days / 4 Nights (Classic Honeymoon)
- Day 1: Port Blair city + harbor cruise around Ross & North Bay.
- Day 2: Ferry to Havelock; Radhanagar Beach; sunset photography.
- Day 3: Private boat to Elephant Beach; afternoon spa.
- Day 4: Ferry to Neil Island; Laxmanpur sunset; overnight on Neil.
- Day 5: Return ferry to Port Blair; departure.
6 Days / 5 Nights (Leisure + Nature)
- Day 1: Port Blair heritage and marina walk.
- Day 2: Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (coral-rich marine park; seasonal); evening free.
- Day 3: Ferry to Havelock; beach time; stargazing.
- Day 4: Intro dive for couples; late brunch; optional private sunset charter (weather-permitting).
- Day 5: Ferry to Neil; Bharatpur snorkel; Laxmanpur sunset.
- Day 6: Return to Port Blair; departure.
Typical inclusions vs. exclusions
- Inclusions: Airport transfers, inter-island ferry tickets, breakfast, sightseeing transfers, select activities (e.g., glass-bottom ride), permits where applicable.
- Exclusions: Flights, major water-sports (scuba/sea walk), private charters, lunch/dinner (unless specified), camera fees, tips, travel insurance.
Estimated costs (per couple, indicative)
- 4D/3N budget package: INR 28,000–45,000
- 5D/4N mid-range package: INR 55,000–90,000
- 6D/5N luxury package: INR 120,000–250,000+
- Inter-island catamaran ferry (one-way, per person): INR 1,000–3,000
- Sunset/harbor cruise (per couple): INR 2,500–6,000
- Intro scuba (per person): INR 3,500–7,000; Sea walk: INR 3,500–4,500
- Private speedboat/yacht charter (2–4 hours): INR 45,000–120,000+ depending on boat and inclusions
All prices are approximate, seasonal, and subject to change.
Must-Visit Places in and around Port Blair
Within Port Blair
- Cellular Jail: Freedom-struggle landmark; evening Sound & Light Show weaves history into an emotive narrative.
- Corbyn’s Cove: Easy-access beach for sunset strolls; water sports in season.
- Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep): Ruins draped in roots, peacocks, and British-era history; short boat ride from Marina Park.
- North Bay Island: Snorkeling, sea walk, and glass-bottom rides for coral viewing.
- Chidiya Tapu: Golden-hour views; Munda Pahar trek; one of the best sunset points.
- Wandoor & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: Gateway to Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (pristine corals; limited season).
Romantic picks
- Radhanagar Beach (Havelock): Silky sands and pastel sunsets; consistently ranked among Asia’s best beaches.
- Laxmanpur Beach (Neil): Dramatic golden hour with natural rock formations.
- Private sunset cruises: Intimate views of the harbor and outer isles (weather-permitting).
Local Culture, Food and Shopping
Food to try
- Seafood platters: Grilled lobster, crab, tiger prawns with island spices.
- Andaman-style fish curry: Coconut-based gravies, mild heat, served with steamed rice.
- Tropical treats: Fresh coconuts, mango, pineapple, and banana fritters.
- Vegetarian-friendly: South Indian thalis and North Indian dishes are widely available in Port Blair.
Where to shop
- Aberdeen Bazaar: Souvenirs, handicrafts, light beachwear.
- Sagarika Government Emporium: Fixed-price seashell art, woodcraft, and local products.
Note: Do not buy or collect live corals/shells; follow marine conservation rules.
Culture and etiquette
- Multicultural mix of settlers; English and Hindi widely understood.
- Dress modestly outside beaches; alcohol is regulated; public beaches close by evening in many areas.
- Respect protected tribal areas—no visits or photography; these zones are strictly off-limits.
Nearby Getaways by Cruise/Ferry
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep): Radhanagar and Kalapathar beaches, Elephant Beach for snorkel/scuba; 60–90 min by fast ferry.
- Neil (Shaheed Dweep): Bharatpur (snorkeling), Laxmanpur (sunset), Sitapur (sunrise); 60–90 min by ferry.
- Jolly Buoy/Red Skin: Coral-rich islands in marine park; seasonal access with permits; excellent glass-bottom viewing.
- Baratang: Day trip by road/boat for limestone caves and mangrove creeks (not typically romantic, but unique).
- Ross & North Bay: Half-day boat circuits from Port Blair for light adventure and history.
How to Reach Port Blair
- By Air: Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair, from major Indian cities (seasonal/direct routes vary). Flight time from Chennai/Kolkata is typically 2–2.5 hours.
- By Sea: Government passenger ships operate (infrequently) from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam; 2–3 days at sea; basic cabins; schedules are limited and weather-dependent.
Accommodation Options for Honeymooners
- Luxury: Beachside villas and high-end resorts on Havelock; upscale hotels in Port Blair with sea views. Approx INR 18,000–45,000+ per night.
- Mid-range: Boutique stays and resort cottages near popular beaches. Approx INR 7,000–15,000 per night.
- Budget: Clean guesthouses and city hotels in Port Blair. Approx INR 2,500–6,000 per night.
Tip: Split the stay—2 nights Havelock + 1 night Neil + 1–2 nights Port Blair—for variety and smoother transfers.
Best Time to Visit for a Cruise Honeymoon
- October–April: Best weather, calmer seas, clear waters for snorkeling/diving.
- May: Hotter, but still workable; occasional showers.
- June–September (Monsoon): Rough seas, frequent rain; some ferries/activities may be canceled. Good for deals if you’re flexible.
Activities and Experiences for Couples
- Water adventures: Snorkeling, intro scuba, sea walk, kayaking in mangroves (where available).
- Cruise moments: Sunset harbor cruise, glass-bottom boat rides over coral gardens, optional private charters.
- Nature & wellness: Beach picnics, spa sessions, forest walks (Chidiya Tapu), stargazing on clear nights.
- Photography: Dawn at Kalapathar (Havelock) and dusk at Laxmanpur (Neil) for golden light.
Tips for Different Traveler Types
Honeymooners
- Pre-book ferries and preferred seats; schedules can fill up in peak season.
- Choose one “splurge” experience—private boat, beachfront dinner, or couple’s dive—to anchor the memories.
- Pack light linens, reef-safe sunscreen, and a dry bag for boat days.
Families
- Opt for short boat transfers and select calm-water beaches; carry snacks and motion-sickness bands.
- Glass-bottom rides are kid-friendly alternatives to snorkeling.
Friends/Groups
- Consider chartering a larger speedboat for shared costs and flexible stops.
- Plan activity slots (dive/sea walk) in advance to secure same-time sessions.
Practical Travel Information
Money & connectivity
- ATMs available in Port Blair; carry cash for small vendors on outer islands.
- Mobile data has improved but can be patchy on islands; download offline maps and e-tickets.
Permits & regulations
- Most tourist islands (Port Blair, Havelock, Neil) are open without special permits for Indian nationals. Foreign nationals may receive necessary permits on arrival; check the latest advisory before travel.
- Protected tribal areas are strictly off-limits. Do not attempt visits or photography.
- No coral/shell collection; drones require prior permissions; follow beach safety flags.
Health & safety
- Sea conditions can change quickly; always wear life jackets on boats.
- Heed local advisories about swimming, especially near creeks/mangroves (some areas may have saltwater crocodile warnings).
- Carry basic meds, motion-sickness tabs, and sun protection; hydrate well.
Packing checklist
- Light cottons, hat, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent.
- Flip-flops + water shoes, quick-dry towel, dry bag, extra phone power bank.
- Soft luggage for easy ferry handling; photocopies of IDs/permits.
FAQs
Q: Are there true “ocean cruise ships” based in Port Blair?
A: Large international cruise ships are not home-ported here. Most honeymoon “cruise” experiences use fast inter-island ferries, harbor/sunset cruises, and private charters.
Q: Is monsoon season suitable for a honeymoon cruise?
A: June–September brings rough seas and frequent rain. Expect possible ferry delays/cancellations. If you’re flexible and seeking deals, it can work, but October–April is more reliable.
Q: Do we need diving certification to try scuba?
A: No. Introductory dives with a certified instructor are available for beginners after a short briefing and shallow-water practice.
Q: Can we book a private boat for a proposal or photoshoot?
A: Yes, subject to availability, weather, and local regulations. Confirm permits, route, inclusions (snacks, music, décor), and safety gear in advance.
Q: Which island is better for honeymooners—Havelock or Neil?
A: Havelock offers more resorts, activities, and famous sunsets at Radhanagar. Neil is quieter and intimate with beautiful coral lagoons. Many couples split time between both.
Conclusion
Port Blair sets the tone for a romantic, cruise-style honeymoon across the Andaman archipelago. With reliable ferries, scenic harbor cruises, coral experiences, and a range of stays from boutique to ultra-luxury, it’s easy to tailor an itinerary that balances adventure and downtime. Plan around the weather, pre-book inter-island transfers, and choose a standout experience—sunset charter, spa day, or couple’s dive—to make your Andaman story uniquely yours.
