Short answer
Private and government ferries link Port Blair, Havelock and Neil, with crossings of roughly one to two and a half hours. Tickets should be booked in advance, sailings are weather-dependent and a buffer before any flight is essential. On the islands, taxis, autos, scooters and bicycles are the usual ways to get around.
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In the Andamans, transport is part of the experience and part of the planning. Ferries link the islands, and their reliability shapes your itinerary more than almost anything else. This guide explains how the system works, how to book and how to handle the things that go wrong.
The ferry system
Two types of ferries operate between the main tourist islands.
- Private high-speed ferries. Operated by companies such as Makruzz, Green Ocean and Nautika, these have air-conditioned cabins, reclining seats and sometimes an open deck. They are faster and more comfortable, and they cost more.
- Government ferries. Run by the Directorate of Shipping Services, these are slower and cheaper, with basic seating. They are an option for budget travellers and for those who cannot get private tickets.
Both serve the main routes: Port Blair to Havelock, Havelock to Neil, Neil to Port Blair and the reverse. Crossings take from about one hour (Havelock to Neil) to two and a half hours (Port Blair to Havelock on slower boats).
Schedules and booking
Schedules change by season and are often updated. Sailings typically depart in the morning and early afternoon, with limited services after that. Tickets can be booked online, through agents or at counters, and sell out quickly in peak season. Book as soon as your dates are fixed, and confirm timings a day before. Keep a copy of your ticket and photo ID.
When you book through a tour operator, ask which operator and class they have reserved. If a ferry is full, there may be alternatives, but not always at the same price or time.
What happens in bad weather
Rough seas can cancel or delay ferries, particularly in the monsoon and during storms. If a sailing is cancelled, the operator may rebook you on another service, but seats are limited. This is why we avoid same-day connections with flights, keep the last day free and build in a spare day on longer trips. If you are stuck, your hotel or planner can help find alternatives.
Seasickness and comfort
Crossings can be bumpy, particularly the Port Blair to Havelock leg. If you are prone to motion sickness, take tablets before you board, sit near the middle of the boat, look at the horizon and avoid reading. Bring a light jacket, because air conditioning can be cold.
Getting around each island
Port Blair. Taxis, autos and cabs are available. Fixed-fare taxis from the airport and jetties are common. A private cab is the easiest way to visit Chidiya Tapu, Wandoor and the museums.
Havelock. Taxis, autos and rented scooters are the main options. Roads are narrow but well maintained, and distances between beaches are 5 to 15 km. Resort transfers are common. Fares are set by local unions.
Neil. Bicycles, scooters and autos are available. The island is small, and cycling is pleasant. Roads are quiet, but take care at junctions and on gravel.
Scooters and bicycles
Renting a scooter is popular on Havelock and Neil. Roads are generally quiet, but accidents happen, particularly with inexperienced riders. Wear a helmet, carry a licence, avoid riding after dark and do not ride after drinking. Check the vehicle and the rental agreement. Bicycles are a good option on Neil.
Boats to nearby islands
Ross Island, North Bay, Jolly Buoy and Red Skin islands are reached by small boats from Port Blair. Tickets are sold at the jetty or by tour operators. Schedules depend on tides and weather. Some islands require forest-department permission and may be closed seasonally.
Helicopter services
Helicopter services between Port Blair and Havelock or Neil operate occasionally, subject to schedules and weather. They are limited and expensive, and cannot be relied on as a main option.
Road trips on the main island
The Andaman Trunk Road runs north from Port Blair to Baratang and beyond. It passes through a tribal reserve, where convoy rules and photography bans apply. If you plan a Baratang day, go with a reputable operator, and follow the rules strictly.
A typical ferry day
You check out of your resort around 7 am, reach the jetty an hour before departure, show your ID and ticket, and board a boat that sails at 8.30 or 9. The crossing takes about two hours, and you arrive at midday. A taxi takes you to your next resort, where you check in around 1 pm. By mid-afternoon you are ready for an easy swim or a walk. That means the ferry day is mostly a travel day, which is why we limit the number of hops.
Luggage rules
Ferries have limits on baggage, and larger items may need to be stored in a separate area. Keep a small day bag with valuables, water and a jacket. Tag your luggage, and keep documents handy for checks.
Accessibility
Jetties have steps, gangways and sometimes uneven surfaces. Boats can be crowded, and getting on and off in swell requires balance. If someone in your group has limited mobility, tell us early, so we can choose ferries, resorts and transfers that suit.
Booking tips
- Reserve ferries early and confirm each leg.
- Have names that match IDs exactly.
- Arrive at the jetty at least 45 minutes before departure.
- Keep luggage tidy and tagged.
- Carry cash for porters and small purchases.
- Check weather and updates the day before.
Plan with us
We book ferries as part of our packages, with buffers and plan B options. See the Classic Andaman tour or tell us what you need.
Practical tips
- Book ferries as soon as your dates are fixed, especially for December to January.
- Carry government photo ID, since it is checked at the jetty.
- Never schedule a flight on the same day as an inter-island ferry.
- Bring motion-sickness tablets, a light jacket and a waterproof bag.
- Check ferry status the evening before and the morning of travel.
