Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance of the Vizag–Port Blair Sea Route
- Route, Duration, Schedules & Booking
- Best Time to Sail
- Top Things to Do on the Voyage
- Nearby Attractions in Vizag & Port Blair
- How to Reach the Departure Port
- Accommodation Options (Onboard & On Land)
- Food, Shopping & Culture
- Estimated Costs & Budgeting
- Essential Travel Tips
- Tips by Traveler Type
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
The cruise-like passenger ships that ply between Visakhapatnam (Vizag) and Port Blair offer one of India’s most evocative sea journeys. Spanning the Bay of Bengal, this route isn’t a luxury cruise in the conventional sense—it’s a passenger-cum-cargo service that doubles as a budget-friendly, slow-travel gateway to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Expect big skies, open decks, and two to three days at sea watching sunrises, sunsets, and the occasional pod of dolphins.
History & Importance of the Vizag–Port Blair Sea Route
This sea corridor has long been a lifeline linking the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to mainland India. Run primarily as a passenger-cum-cargo service, the route complements air connectivity by transporting residents, tourists, and essential supplies. Over the years, ships such as MV Nicobar and MV Nancowry (among others, subject to roster) have served this route, making it a practical and sometimes nostalgic way to reach the archipelago. While many travelers now fly, the sea journey remains popular with slow travelers, students, adventure seekers, and those who prefer economical passage.
Route, Duration, Schedules & Booking
Route & Duration
- Typical sailing time: 56–70 hours (about 2.5 to 3 days), weather and operational conditions permitting.
- Departure: Visakhapatnam Port (passenger terminal as indicated on your ticket).
- Arrival: Port Blair, generally at Haddo Wharf (official terminal as per ticket).
Schedules
- Frequency: Generally 1–2 sailings per month from Vizag, varying by season and fleet availability.
- Monsoon and cyclone advisories can affect frequency and timings.
- Schedules are typically announced a few weeks in advance and can change at short notice.
Booking
- Primary channels: Directorate of Shipping Services (A&N Administration), authorized STARS booking counters in Vizag/Port Blair, and notified ticketing windows.
- Classes: Deck/Bunk, Second Class Cabin, First Class Cabin, Deluxe Cabin (availability depends on ship).
- Documents: Valid government-issued photo ID; keep photocopies for each passenger. Foreign nationals should verify permit requirements in advance.
- Note: Booking rules, quotas, and payment modes may vary by counter and announcement. Always reconfirm latest procedures before planning.
Best Time to Sail
- October to April: Calmer seas, clearer skies, and better visibility—most comfortable for first-time sailors and families.
- May to September: Southwest monsoon can mean rough seas, schedule disruptions, and limited deck time. Experienced travelers only.
- Festive peaks (December–January): Higher demand; book well in advance.
Top Things to Do on the Voyage
- Deck time: Catch sunrises and sunsets over the Bay of Bengal; great for photography and time-lapse lovers.
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution on clear nights—carry a star app offline.
- Sea-life spotting: Watch for flying fish and dolphins (seasonal, not guaranteed).
- Digital detox: With little to no network mid-sea, it’s the perfect window to read, journal, or play board games.
- Bridge talks/announcements: Follow safety demos and ship announcements; occasionally, staff share insights on sea conditions.
Nearby Attractions in Vizag & Port Blair
In Vizag (pre/post-sailing)
- RK Beach and Submarine Museum (INS Kurusura)
- Kailasagiri Hill Park and ropeway views
- Borra Caves and Araku Valley (long day trip or overnight)
In Port Blair (arrival/layover)
- Cellular Jail and light-and-sound show
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach for a relaxed evening
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) and North Bay
- Connect onward to Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil)
How to Reach the Departure Port
Getting to Vizag (Visakhapatnam)
- By Air: Visakhapatnam International Airport has regular flights from major Indian cities.
- By Rail: Visakhapatnam Junction is well-connected on the East Coast route.
- By Road: Good highways from Vijayawada, Bhubaneswar, and Hyderabad.
- To the Passenger Terminal: Use your ticket’s terminal details; arrive 3–4 hours before departure for security and check-in.
Arrival at Port Blair
- Disembarkation at the notified jetty (commonly Haddo Wharf). Taxis and autos are available outside.
- Veer Savarkar International Airport is 10–20 minutes from central Port Blair, traffic permitting.
Alternative to Sea Travel
- Direct flights to Port Blair from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi (faster but usually costlier).
Accommodation Options (Onboard & On Land)
Onboard Classes
- Deluxe Cabin: Limited, AC, usually 2-berth with attached bath on select ships.
- First Class Cabin: AC, typically 4-berth, shared or attached bath depending on vessel.
- Second Class Cabin: AC/ventilated, 4–6 berths; economical for groups.
- Deck/Bunk: Dorm-style or open deck seating/sleeping; most budget-friendly but least privacy.
Facilities vary by ship. Expect canteen service, drinking water points, basic bedding (in cabins), and charging points. Wi‑Fi is generally unavailable; mobile network fades a short distance offshore.
Stays in Vizag
- Budget: Near Railway Station and Daba Gardens.
- Mid-range: Around RK Beach and Waltair Uplands.
- Upscale: Sea-facing hotels along Beach Road.
Stays in Port Blair
- Budget: Lodges near Aberdeen Bazaar.
- Mid-range: Phoenix Bay and Delanipur areas.
- Upscale: Boutique resorts overlooking the bay.
Food, Shopping & Culture
Onboard Food
- Canteen serves simple Indian meals (veg and non-veg thalis), tea/coffee, snacks.
- Carry dry snacks, refillable water bottles, and any special dietary items.
- Payment modes vary; carry small cash denominations.
Local Food
- Vizag: Coastal Andhra flavors—fish curry, prawn fry, gongura dishes, and strong filter coffee.
- Port Blair: Fresh seafood, Bengali and South Indian influences; try grilled fish and coconut-based curries.
Shopping & Culture
- Vizag: Handicrafts, khadi, and local pickles at markets around Jagadamba Junction.
- Port Blair: Shell craft, spices, and souvenirs at Aberdeen Bazaar; respect regulations on protected marine products.
Estimated Costs & Budgeting
- One-way fare (indicative, per person; varies by ship/season):
- Deck/Bunk: ~INR 1,500–3,000
- Second Class Cabin: ~INR 3,000–5,500
- First Class Cabin: ~INR 5,500–8,500
- Deluxe Cabin: ~INR 8,500–12,000
- Meals onboard: ~INR 200–400 per meal
- Pre/post hotel stays: Budget ~INR 1,000–2,000; Mid-range ~INR 2,500–5,000; Upscale 5,000+ per night
- Local transfers (each city): ~INR 200–800 depending on distance
- Miscellaneous: Port fees, taxes, excess baggage if any
Note: Fares and inclusions change periodically. Always verify latest tariffs and taxes at the time of booking.
Essential Travel Tips
- Booking window: Watch monthly schedule notifications; peak season sells out quickly.
- Check-in: Report 3–4 hours early with original ID and printed/e-copy of tickets.
- Baggage: Typical allowance ranges 25–50 kg per adult; excess is chargeable—confirm at booking.
- Seasickness: Pack motion-sickness medication, ginger candies, and consider lower berths mid-ship.
- Connectivity: Download playlists/books offline; carry power bank and a multi-plug.
- Safety: Follow crew instructions; avoid leaning on railings; wear appropriate footwear on wet decks.
- Weather: October–April is calmer; monsoon sailings can be bumpy and may face delays.
- Prohibited items: No inflammables/sharp weapons; check the latest list with the ticketing authority.
- Documents: Foreign nationals should reconfirm permit norms for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands before travel.
Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Opt for First Class or Deluxe cabins for privacy and attached/nearby washrooms.
- Pack kids’ snacks, card games, and warm layers for AC cabins.
Honeymooners
- Choose Deluxe or a quieter First Class cabin; sail October–March for smoother seas.
- Plan onward stays in Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) for beaches and sunsets.
Friends & Backpackers
- Second Class or Bunk can be budget-friendly; carry sleeping liner and earplugs.
- Split costs on snacks and transfers; keep schedules flexible for potential delays.
FAQs
Q: Is there a luxury cruise from Vizag to Port Blair?
A: Not in the conventional private-cruise sense. The service is a government-run passenger-cum-cargo ship with basic to comfortable cabins, not luxury amenities.
Q: How long does the journey take?
A: Typically 56–70 hours (about 2.5 to 3 days), depending on sea conditions and operational factors.
Q: How do I book tickets?
A: Through the Directorate of Shipping Services and authorized STARS counters in Vizag/Port Blair. Schedules and booking procedures are announced periodically—check the latest notification before planning.
Q: Is it safe to sail during the monsoon?
A: Ships sail with safety protocols, but seas can be rough and schedules may change. If you’re prone to motion sickness or are traveling with small children, consider the October–April window.
Q: Can I ship my car or motorcycle on this route?
A: Tourist vehicles are generally not accommodated. Cargo bookings are separate and subject to different rules; check with the shipping authority for specifics.
Conclusion
The Vizag–Port Blair passenger ships offer an immersive, budget-friendly way to cross the Bay of Bengal, trading speed for scenery and simplicity. With the right expectations—basic facilities, variable schedules, and long hours at sea—you’ll enjoy a classic Indian ocean voyage that connects two captivating coastal worlds. Plan around fair-weather months, pick a cabin that fits your comfort level, and build in buffer days on either side of your sailing.
