Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Cruise Options for Rangat at a Glance
- Best Time to Cruise to Rangat
- Routes and Operators
- Schedules, Booking & Tickets
- Onboard Experience & Seating Classes
- Estimated Costs
- How to Reach Rangat (All Modes)
- Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Local Culture & Food
- Shopping in Rangat
- Nearby Getaways by Sea
- Where to Stay in Rangat
- Travel Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, set in the heart of Middle Andaman, is a practical and scenic base for travelers exploring mangroves, turtle nesting beaches, and offbeat islands like Long Island. If you’re planning to reach or leave Rangat by sea, this guide explains every cruise and ferry option, with routes, ticketing, costs, and on-the-ground tips to make your journey smooth.
Cruise Options for Rangat at a Glance
- Primary sea connectivity is via government-operated inter-island ferries managed by the Andaman & Nicobar Administration (Directorate/Department of Shipping Services).
- Private high-speed catamarans mainly run Port Blair–Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)–Neil (Shaheed Dweep) and typically do not operate to Rangat on regular schedules.
- Rangat’s services usually use the local jetty (commonly referred to as Yerrata/Rangat Jetty), with links to Port Blair, Long Island, Mayabunder, and occasionally Diglipur sectors.
- Schedules can be seasonal and subject to weather; always recheck locally 24–48 hours before departure.
Best Time to Cruise to Rangat
- Peak sailing comfort: October to May offers calmer seas and more frequent sailings.
- Monsoon (June–September): Expect choppier seas, possible delays, and occasional cancellations.
- Buffer days: Keep a buffer day in your plan if you must catch flights or onward ferries.
Routes and Operators
Port Blair ↔ Rangat (Inter-island Ferry)
- Operator: Government ferries (A&N Administration).
- Frequency: Not daily year-round; typically several times per week, varying by season and vessel availability.
- Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours, depending on route and stops.
- Notes: Some sailings may call at intermediate islands. Check the latest roster at the Port Blair passenger terminal (Phoenix Bay) or official notice boards.
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) ↔ Rangat
- Operator: Government ferries on select days or seasons.
- Duration: Typically 2–4 hours depending on the vessel and routing.
- Private catamarans: Generally do not run this sector regularly.
Long Island ↔ Rangat
- Operator: Government ferries and/or local boats on scheduled days.
- Duration: About 1–2 hours.
- Why go: Access to Lalaji Bay and secluded beaches via Long Island.
Mayabunder/Diglipur ↔ Rangat
- Operator: Government ferries subject to roster; overland connections are often more frequent.
- Duration: 2–6 hours depending on sector and vessel.
Baratang Connections
- By sea: Direct passenger ferries are uncommon; most travelers go overland.
- By road: Andaman Trunk Road (ATR/NH4) uses a short vehicle ferry crossing at Middle Strait (Baratang–Uttara). This is not a cruise but part of the road journey.
Schedules, Booking & Tickets
- Where to check schedules: Notice boards at Phoenix Bay Passenger Terminal (Port Blair), Rangat Jetty ticket counter, and the Department of Shipping Services offices. Local tour desks also display the weekly roster.
- Booking windows: Tickets typically open a few days in advance; popular sailings can sell out early in peak season.
- How to book: In-person at official counters (Port Blair, Rangat, Long Island, Mayabunder). Online options may be available intermittently—verify via the official A&N Administration/Shipping Services portal or information lines.
- ID & permits: Carry a valid photo ID (passport for foreign nationals). Standard tourist permits for Andaman (if applicable) must be valid for your travel dates.
- Luggage: Light luggage is preferred; oversized items may attract a fee and are subject to space and safety rules.
Onboard Experience & Seating Classes
- Vessels: Conventional inter-island ships with basic seating/cabin arrangements. Amenities are functional rather than luxury.
- Classes (typical): Deluxe/First/Second seating; some vessels offer bunk berths on longer sectors.
- Facilities: Air-conditioned sections on select classes, restrooms, and a small canteen/snack counter on many ships.
- Comfort tips: Carry a light jacket, snacks, water, seasickness tablets, and a power bank. Step out on deck only when permitted by crew.
Estimated Costs
- Port Blair ↔ Rangat (government ferry): Approx. ₹300–₹900 per adult, depending on class and vessel.
- Rangat ↔ Long Island: Approx. ₹50–₹250 per adult.
- Rangat ↔ Havelock/Mayabunder/Diglipur (when available): Typically ₹200–₹800 per adult based on distance and class.
- Luggage charges: Nominal for large/heavy items; confirm at the counter.
- Note: Fares are indicative and subject to revision. Always confirm at the time of booking.
How to Reach Rangat (All Modes)
By Sea
- Use government ferries from Port Blair or nearby islands as detailed above.
- Check weather and roster; keep a buffer day in monsoon.
By Road from Port Blair
- Route: Andaman Trunk Road (ATR/NH4) via Baratang (Middle Strait ferry) to Rangat.
- Duration: Around 6–8 hours by bus/shared cab, depending on ferry wait times and road conditions.
- Notes: The route skirts protected areas. Follow all regulations; stopping within reserve zones is prohibited.
By Air
- No airport in Rangat. Fly to Port Blair (IXZ) and continue by road or ferry.
Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway & Beach: One of the longest mangrove boardwalks in India leading to a serene beach.
- Ambkunj Beach (Betapur): Eco-friendly beach with rustic seating and shade; great for a quiet sunset.
- Yerrata Mangrove Park & Viewpoint: Interpretive decks and panoramic views over tidal creeks.
- Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary: Seasonal turtle nesting; visit with local guidance to respect protocols.
- Moricedera: Rocky shoreline, natural sit-outs, and picnic spots.
- Panchvati Hills: Small waterfalls and streams during/after monsoon; check access conditions.
Local Culture & Food
- Flavours: Simple island fare with Bengali, Tamil, and Ranchi influences; fresh seafood when available.
- What to try: Fish curry-rice thali, prawn fry, coconut-based gravies, samosas and hot tea at bazaar stalls.
- Dining hours: Eateries often close early; plan dinners before 9 pm.
- Culture: A working-town vibe serving fishermen, forest workers, and travelers—a warm, low-key atmosphere.
Shopping in Rangat
- Rangat Bazaar: Daily essentials, fruits, and simple souvenirs.
- What’s worth picking: Local spices, coconuts, honey (when available), and small handicrafts. Not a major shopping hub—keep expectations modest.
Nearby Getaways by Sea
- Long Island: Gateway to Lalaji Bay; ferries/boats from Rangat make it an easy overnight trip.
- Mayabunder: Quieter beaches like Karmatang; occasional sea links or easy road hop.
- Diglipur: Ross & Smith twin islands accessible via road from Rangat; limited sea options may exist seasonally.
- Havelock & Neil: Typically routed via Port Blair by sea; direct services to/from Rangat are infrequent.
Where to Stay in Rangat
- Government rest houses/Tourist lodges: Basic, budget-friendly; advance booking recommended.
- Guesthouses & small hotels: Concentrated around Rangat Bazaar and Betapur; simple rooms with essential amenities.
- Eco-stays near beaches: Limited but atmospheric options near Ambkunj/Dhaninallah; book early in peak months.
- Budget range (indicative): ₹1,000–₹3,500 per night for most stays; higher for scarce, better-equipped rooms.
Travel Tips
For Families
- Choose morning ferries for calmer seas and better daylight for transfers.
- Pack snacks, ORS, and a light blanket for kids; seating is basic.
- Confirm return tickets before venturing to Long Island during peak season.
For Honeymooners/Couples
- Time visits to Dhaninallah and Ambkunj for sunrise/sunset to avoid crowds.
- Pick higher seating classes on longer sailings for comfort.
- Keep an extra day in case weather disrupts ferries.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Travel light; it speeds up boarding and reduces luggage fees.
- Ask locally about same-day connections Rangat ↔ Long Island; rosters can change quickly.
- Carry cash; card/UPI acceptance is improving but not universal.
Packing & Safety
- Dry bag, rain cover (monsoon), motion-sickness tablets, sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent.
- Respect marine and wildlife rules, especially at turtle nesting sites.
- Keep photocopies of ID and permits; follow crew instructions on deck access.
FAQs
Q: Are there private high-speed cruises from Port Blair to Rangat?
A: Regular private catamarans focus on Port Blair–Havelock–Neil sectors. Rangat is primarily served by government ferries; check locally for any seasonal or special services.
Q: How long does the Port Blair–Rangat ferry take?
A: Typically 6–8 hours, depending on the vessel, weather, and intermediate stops.
Q: Can I carry a motorcycle or bicycle on the ferry?
A: Some government vessels allow limited two-wheeler transport on specific sectors, subject to space and permits. Confirm rules and charges at the booking counter in advance.
Q: What is the best season to travel to Rangat by sea?
A: October to May offers calmer seas and more reliable schedules. Monsoon months can see delays and cancellations.
Q: How do I book Rangat ferry tickets?
A: Purchase at official ticket counters in Port Blair (Phoenix Bay), Rangat Jetty, and other island counters. Online booking may be available—verify through the official A&N Shipping Services information channels.
Conclusion
Rangat’s sea connectivity is reliable but simple: government ferries link it to Port Blair and nearby islands, with timings that ebb and flow by season and weather. Travel light, plan around the monsoon, and verify schedules at counters a day or two ahead. With thoughtful timing, you can pair Rangat’s quiet beaches and mangroves with easy boat hops to Long Island and beyond for a rewarding Middle Andaman journey.
