Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities/Places Connected by Ferries
- Best Ferry Operators and Services
- Tourist Circuits by Ferry
- Activities You Can Access by Ferry
- Best Time to Travel by Ferry
- Tickets, Schedules and Costs
- How to Reach Andaman and the Jetties
- Accommodation Near Jetties
- Local Food, Shopping, Culture
- Budget Tips for Ferries
- Safety, Rules and Responsible Travel
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Sample 5–7 Day Itineraries Using Ferries
- Festivals and Events That May Affect Sailings
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
The Andaman Islands are stitched together by the sea, and ferries are the lifeline that let travelers hop between emerald isles, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on Radhanagar Beach (Havelock/Swaraj Dweep), snorkeling at Bharatpur (Neil/Shaheed Dweep), or venturing north to Ross & Smith, choosing the right ferry service turns logistics into part of the adventure. This guide covers the best ferry options, routes, costs, and smart tips to plan a smooth island-hopping trip.
Top Cities/Places Connected by Ferries
Port Blair (Gateway)
- Main jetties: Phoenix Bay/Chatham Jetty and Haddo Wharf.
- Connects to: Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil (Shaheed Dweep), Little Andaman (Hut Bay), North & Middle Andaman (Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur), Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), North Bay, Jolly Buoy (seasonal), and more.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
- Known for: Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, scuba diving.
- Ferries: Frequent private catamarans to/from Port Blair and Neil; limited government ferries to other isles.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
- Known for: Bharatpur, Laxmanpur, and Sitapur beaches.
- Ferries: Daily services to Port Blair and Havelock.
North & Middle Andaman (Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur)
- Highlights: Mangroves at Rangat, Karmatang Beach (Mayabunder), Ross & Smith twin islands (Diglipur).
- Ferries: Primarily government inter-island ships; longer sailings and fewer departures than tourist triangle.
Little Andaman (Hut Bay)
- Highlights: Surf breaks, waterfalls, raw island charm.
- Ferries: Government ships from Port Blair; sailings depend on sea conditions and season.
Day-Trip Spots by Boat
- Ross Island/Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, North Bay, Jolly Buoy (Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park), Red Skin (seasonal rotation with Jolly Buoy).
Best Ferry Operators and Services
Private High-Speed Catamarans (Tourist Triangle)
These modern, air-conditioned ferries are popular for Port Blair–Havelock–Neil routes. Operators and offerings can change seasonally; always check current schedules.
- Makruzz (and variants) – Reliable fleet, multiple classes (Economy/Premium/Business). Approx. 60–90 min between Port Blair and Havelock.
- Green Ocean – Spacious seating with indoor and limited open-deck areas on some vessels; good choice if you enjoy sea views.
- Sea Link – Comfortable cabins, efficient check-in; services typically on Port Blair–Havelock–Neil circuit.
- Nautika/Nautika Lite – Fast sailings where operational; modern ambience.
Notes:
- Classes usually include Economy, Premium/Deluxe, and Business/Executive with tiered legroom and window placement.
- Pre-booking is essential during peak months (Oct–May), long weekends, and holidays.
Government Ferries (Directorate of Shipping Services)
- Widest network across the archipelago, including North/Middle Andaman and Little Andaman.
- Budget-friendly but slower and often fewer departures; tickets commonly sold at counters shortly before sailing.
- Good for: Flexible travelers, budget trips, and reaching remote islands.
Local Boats and Day-Trip Services
- Port Blair’s Water Sports Complex operates boats to Ross Island/NSCB Island and North Bay.
- Jolly Buoy/Red Skin require forest permits; boats operate set slots with fixed return times.
Tourist Circuits by Ferry
Classic Triangle
- Port Blair → Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) → Neil (Shaheed Dweep) → Port Blair
- Ideal for 4–6 days; fastest connections, frequent departures, easy planning.
North Andaman Adventure
- Port Blair → Rangat/Mayabunder → Diglipur (Ross & Smith) → return
- For nature lovers with extra time; rely on government ferries or combine with road travel.
Little Andaman Extension
- Port Blair → Hut Bay (Little Andaman) → return
- Great for surfing and offbeat travel; sailings are weather-dependent.
Activities You Can Access by Ferry
- Beaches and sunsets: Radhanagar (Havelock), Laxmanpur (Neil), Corbyn’s Cove (Port Blair).
- Snorkeling and glass-bottom boats: Elephant Beach, Bharatpur, Jolly Buoy/Red Skin.
- Scuba diving: Multiple PADI centers on Havelock and Neil.
- Mangrove and twin-island experiences: Rangat creeks, Ross & Smith (Diglipur).
Best Time to Travel by Ferry
- Oct–May: Calmer seas, more sailings, best underwater visibility.
- Jun–Sep (Monsoon): Rougher seas, possible cancellations or delays; fewer departures.
- Morning sailings are generally smoother; consider them if prone to seasickness.
Tickets, Schedules and Costs
Booking Channels
- Private ferries: Official operator websites, accredited counters, or licensed travel desks in Port Blair/Havelock/Neil.
- Government ferries: DSS ticket counters at jetties; limited advance booking, bring original ID.
Reporting and Documents
- Report 45–90 minutes before departure (operator specific).
- Carry original photo ID for all travelers; keep e-tickets handy.
- Permits may be required for select protected islands/parks (issued locally).
Luggage and Seating
- Typical free check-in allowance: 15–25 kg per adult; cabin baggage 7–10 kg. Excess charges apply.
- Seat selection corresponds to class; windows often cost more and sell out early.
- Vehicles are not carried on private high-speed ferries; limited government vessels may transport cargo/vehicles on specific routes only.
Estimated One-Way Fares (Indicative)
- Port Blair ↔ Havelock: INR 1,500–3,500 (private, by class); INR 400–1,200 (government).
- Port Blair ↔ Neil: INR 1,200–2,500 (private); cheaper on government ferries.
- Havelock ↔ Neil: INR 1,000–2,200 (private).
- Port Blair ↔ Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur/Little Andaman: Government ferries only for many sailings; fares budget-friendly but durations long.
Note: Prices and schedules change with season, fuel, and fleet availability. Verify close to travel dates.
How to Reach Andaman and the Jetties
Arriving in Andaman
- By Air: Daily flights to Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair) from major Indian cities (e.g., Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad).
- By Sea: Government passenger ships from Chennai/Kolkata/Visakhapatnam operate occasionally (2–3 days at sea); basic cabins; best for slow travel, not short holidays.
Key Jetties and Transfers
- Phoenix Bay/Chatham/Haddo Wharf (Port Blair): 10–30 minutes from airport by taxi/auto.
- Havelock Jetty (Swaraj Dweep): Govind Nagar area; autos and hotel pickups available.
- Neil Jetty (Shaheed Dweep): Near Bharatpur Beach; easy last-mile by auto/e-rickshaw.
Accommodation Near Jetties
Port Blair
- Budget guesthouses: INR 1,200–2,500 per night near Aberdeen Bazaar.
- Mid-range hotels: INR 3,000–6,000 with sea views/shuttle options.
- Upscale stays: INR 7,000+ with amenities and tour desks.
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Beach huts/hostels (Govind Nagar): INR 1,500–3,000.
- Boutique resorts: INR 5,000–10,000.
- Luxury beachfront: INR 12,000+ near Radhanagar/Beach No. 5.
Neil (Shaheed Dweep)
- Homestays/guesthouses: INR 1,200–3,000.
- Comfort resorts near Bharatpur/Laxmanpur: INR 4,000–8,000.
Local Food, Shopping, Culture
- Seafood specialties: Grilled fish, prawns, crab curries; vegetarian options widely available.
- Cafés near jetties: Bakeries and coffee stops in Port Blair and Havelock for pre-sailing snacks.
- Shopping: Handicrafts, spices, coconut products. Avoid buying corals/shells—many are protected.
- Culture: A vibrant mix of Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Ranchi, and indigenous influences; respect local customs and restricted areas.
Budget Tips for Ferries
- Book private ferries early to lock lower classes; travel midweek for better availability.
- Use government ferries for longer hauls (e.g., Little Andaman, North Andaman) if schedules fit.
- Travel light to avoid excess baggage fees; carry a reusable water bottle and snacks.
- Combine early ferries with same-day tours to save on extra nights.
Safety, Rules and Responsible Travel
- Check weather advisories in monsoon; keep buffers around flight days.
- Wear life jackets on open-deck or small boats; follow crew instructions.
- Pack motion-sickness medication if needed; choose morning sailings for calmer seas.
- Plastic reduction rules are enforced; dispose waste responsibly and avoid coral/reef damage.
- Some areas are restricted for tribal protection; do not enter or photograph without explicit permission.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families with Kids
- Opt for morning ferries and front- or mid-ship seats to reduce motion.
- Carry snacks, hydration, and a light jacket (AC can be cool).
- Strollers are fine but fold before boarding; label all bags.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Book premium window seats early for sea views.
- Time ferries to reach Radhanagar for golden-hour sunsets.
- Travel with soft luggage; it’s easier to manage during boarding.
Friends/Backpackers
- Chase last-minute deals in shoulder season; be flexible with times.
- Government ferries are cheapest for long hops; carry a light sheet and neck pillow.
- Autos/scooters are readily available at jetties for last-mile rides.
Sample 5–7 Day Itineraries Using Ferries
5 Days: Classic Highlights
- Day 1: Arrive Port Blair; Cellular Jail, Light & Sound.
- Day 2: Ferry to Havelock; Kalapathar/Beach No. 5.
- Day 3: Radhanagar; optional Elephant Beach trip.
- Day 4: Ferry to Neil; Bharatpur and Natural Bridge; sunset at Laxmanpur.
- Day 5: Morning ferry to Port Blair; Ross Island/North Bay or museum; depart.
7 Days: Add Offbeat
- Days 1–4: As above.
- Day 5: Extra dive/snorkel day or leisure.
- Day 6: Government ferry or road to Rangat/Mayabunder (if schedules align).
- Day 7: Ross & Smith (from Diglipur) or return to Port Blair.
Festivals and Events That May Affect Sailings
- Island Tourism Festival (typically Jan): Higher demand; book ferries well in advance.
- National holidays and long weekends: Popular routes sell out early.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Weather-led cancellations or delays possible.
FAQs
Q: Which ferry is best for Port Blair to Havelock?
A: Any reputable private high-speed catamaran works well—choose by timing and seat class availability. Morning departures are usually smoother; government ferries are cheaper but slower.
Q: How early should I book ferry tickets?
A: For peak season (Oct–May), book private ferries 1–3 weeks in advance. Government ferries often sell at counters closer to departure; arrive early with IDs.
Q: Are ferries safe during monsoon?
A: Services operate subject to marine advisories. Expect choppier seas, occasional cancellations, and fewer departures. Keep buffers and consider morning sailings.
Q: Can I carry a scooter or car on ferries?
A: Private tourist catamarans do not take vehicles. Some government vessels move cargo/vehicles on select routes, but this is limited and not designed for casual tourist vehicle transport.
Q: What ID or permits do I need?
A: Carry original government-issued photo ID for all travelers. Certain protected areas (e.g., Jolly Buoy, Ross & Smith) require local permits issued on the spot or via authorities.
Conclusion
Ferries in the Andaman Islands connect the archipelago’s most beautiful beaches and reefs, with private high-speed catamarans serving the Port Blair–Havelock–Neil circuit and government ferries reaching farther-flung islands. Plan around sea conditions, book early in peak season, travel light, and match your route to your interests—whether it’s world-class diving, quiet sunsets, or offbeat adventures in the north. With the right ferry choices, island-hopping becomes effortless and memorable.
