How to Reach Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), Andaman — A Complete Tourism Guide

Neil Island, officially called Shaheed Dweep, is a serene, reef-fringed island in the Andaman archipelago known for its beaches (Bharatpur, Laxmanpur, Sitapur) and natural bridge formations. There is no direct flight to Neil. Travelers first reach Port Blair (capital of Andaman & Nicobar Islands) and then continue by sea. This guide explains every practical step, with times, options, booking tips, and seasonal advice.

At a Glance

• Gateway: Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport, IXZ)
• onward to Neil: High-speed catamaran (private) or Government ferry
• Travel time by sea: Port Blair → Neil: ~1–1.5 hours (private), ~2–3 hours (government)
• Alternate hop: Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) → Neil: ~45–60 minutes
• Best season to sail: October–May; monsoon seas June–September can disrupt schedules

Step 1 — Reach Port Blair (IXZ)

By Air (Recommended)

This is the fastest and most reliable way. Daily nonstops and connections operate from major Indian cities (e.g., Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad). Flight time is typically 2–3 hours from Chennai/Kolkata. On arrival, the airport is about 15–25 minutes by road from ferry wharfs (traffic-dependent).

• Tip: If your flight lands after late morning, consider staying a night in Port Blair—many ferries to Neil depart in the morning/early afternoon.

By Sea (Long-Duration Passenger Ships)

Occasional government-operated passenger ships sail from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. Transit time is typically 60–70+ hours one-way. Cabins are basic; departures are infrequent and weather-dependent. This option suits slow travelers with flexible schedules.

Step 2 — Sail from Port Blair to Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Ferry Choices

• Private high-speed catamarans: Comfort seating, air-conditioned, fixed seats, faster. Brands often include Makruzz, Nautika, Sea Link, Green Ocean (fleet/operators can change seasonally).
• Government ferries: Slower, economical, open seating, robust in varied sea conditions. Tickets sold at counters; schedules may change on short notice.

Typical Duration and Frequencies

• Port Blair → Neil: ~1–1.5 hours by private; ~2–3 hours by government ferry.
• Departures: Commonly mornings and early afternoons; off-season frequencies reduce.
• Neil → Port Blair: Morning/early afternoon returns; plan buffers for flights.

Terminals and Transfers

• Private ferries: Usually depart Port Blair’s Haddo Wharf.
• Government ferries: Commonly from Phoenix Bay Jetty.
• On Neil: All ferries arrive at Bharatpur Jetty, the island’s main pier.
• Airport → Wharf travel time: 15–25 minutes by taxi/auto; add buffer for traffic and security checks.

How to Book Ferry Tickets

• Private ferries: Book online on operator websites or via reliable local agents/travel desks. Choose route Port Blair (PB) ↔ Shaheed Dweep (Neil). E-tickets issued instantly in most cases.
• Government ferry: Purchase at official counters in Port Blair (and Neil) with valid ID. Sales often open a few days in advance; queues are common in high season.
• Report time: Arrive at the jetty 45–60 minutes before departure for ID checks and baggage screening.

Documents Needed to Board

• Indians: Government photo ID (Aadhaar, DL, Passport).
• Foreign nationals: Passport with valid Indian visa; carry copies. As of recent practice, no Restricted/Protected Area Permit is required for visiting Neil (Shaheed Dweep), but do check the latest advisories before travel.

Indicative One-Way Fares

• Private ferries (Port Blair ↔ Neil): Economy ~₹1,200–1,800; higher classes ~₹2,500–3,500.
• Government ferry: Typically ~₹300–600.
• Baggage: Private ferries often include ~15 kg check-in + small cabin bag; excess charged per kg. Policies vary by operator.

Alternate Route — Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) to Neil

If your itinerary includes Havelock, you can sail directly between Havelock and Neil.

• Duration: ~45–60 minutes by private catamaran; ~1.5–2 hours by government ferry.
• Frequency: Typically 1–2 services daily in season; fewer in monsoon.
• Plan flows: Port Blair → Havelock → Neil → Port Blair (popular), or the reverse.

Can You Take a Helicopter?

Limited, Not a Primary Tourist Option

Inter-island helicopter services (Pawan Hans) prioritize medical and resident travel, with very limited tourist seats and variable schedules. Expect higher costs, strict weight limits, and last-minute changes. For dependable plans, use ferries.

Best Time to Travel and Sea Conditions

• Peak season: October–May (calmer seas, better visibility for snorkeling/diving).
• Monsoon: June–September (rougher seas, possible cancellations). Build buffer days in your itinerary.
• Sun & sea: Carry reef-safe sunscreen, hat, and hydration; ferries are air-conditioned but boarding areas are open.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Time your flights: Aim to land in Port Blair before mid-morning to comfortably catch same-day ferries. Otherwise, overnight and sail next morning.
• Buffer for return: Keep the last night in Port Blair before your flight home; do not rely on the last ferry and same-day flight in monsoon.
• Check-ins: Reach jetty 45–60 minutes early. Names on tickets must match IDs exactly.
• Seasickness: If prone, take motion-sickness medication 30–60 minutes before sailing; request mid-ship seats on private ferries.
• Cash & connectivity: ATMs and network on Neil are limited and occasionally unreliable—carry sufficient cash.
• Eco practices: Single-use plastics are discouraged; carry refillable bottles. Do not carry shells/corals; it’s illegal to collect them.

On Arrival at Neil (Bharatpur Jetty)

• Local transport: Autos, shared cabs, e-rickshaws, and pre-arranged hotel pickups are available. Daily rentals for scooters/bicycles are popular.
• Distances: The island is compact (~7 km end-to-end). Most beaches are 5–20 minutes from the jetty.
• Tickets for onward legs: Confirm or purchase return/Havelock tickets as soon as you arrive, especially in peak season.

DIY vs. Using a Local Agent

• DIY: Cheaper if you book early; full control, but you must monitor schedule changes.
• Agent/package: Slight premium; they track reschedules, handle counters for government ferries, and coordinate hotel transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Can I reach Neil the same day I land in Port Blair?

Yes, often, if your flight arrives by morning and ferry seats are available. If landing after ~11:00–12:00, plan to stay in Port Blair and sail next morning.

2) Are ferry schedules reliable?

Generally reliable in fair weather. In monsoon, expect delays/cancellations. Always keep at least one buffer day before your return flight.

3) Which is better: private or government ferry?

Private: faster, reserved seats, online booking. Government: cheaper, can be crowded, tickets at counters only. Choose per budget and flexibility.

4) Do foreigners need special permits?

Tourists (foreign and Indian) can visit Neil without special area permits under current norms. Foreigners must carry passport/visa and comply with immigration rules. Always verify latest advisories before travel.

Sample Step-by-Step Plan

• Day 1 morning: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ).
• Same day mid-morning/noon: Private ferry from Haddo Wharf to Neil (~1–1.5 hrs).
• On arrival: Auto to hotel; sunset at Laxmanpur Beach.
• Return: Morning ferry Neil → Port Blair the day before your flight.

Pro Notes

• Book inter-island ferries first in peak season, then flights and hotels around confirmed sailings.
• Name, age, gender on ferry tickets must match your ID; corrections may require reissue.
• Keep soft copies of tickets and IDs on your phone plus one paper backup in case of network issues.

With the right timing and a small buffer, getting to Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) is easy—and the journey over the Andaman Sea becomes part of the experience. Safe travels and enjoy the coral lagoons, quiet beaches, and island hospitality.