Ferry Services in Andaman

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a well-established ferry service that connects the main islands for both locals and tourists. These ferry services are the primary mode of transportation between the islands, as roads and bridges do not connect them. Here’s an overview of the ferry services in the Andaman:

Types of Ferries

1. Government Ferries: Operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS), these ferries are the most economical option. They connect major islands such as Port Blair, Havelock Island (now Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (now Shaheed Dweep). While budget-friendly, they tend to be slower and tickets should be booked in advance due to high demand.

2. Private Ferries: Several private operators offer faster and more comfortable ferry services. Some of the popular operators are:

   • Makruzz: A catamaran ferry with air-conditioned seating, it’s one of the fastest ways to travel between islands like Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil.
   • Nautika: Nautika Ferries is a premium ferry service operating in the Andaman Islands. It is known for providing comfortable and efficient travel between islands, catering to tourists with a modern fleet of vessels.
   • Green Ocean: Provides a more relaxed ferry ride with options for both air-conditioned and open-air seating, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views.

Major Routes

1. Port Blair to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep): This is one of the busiest routes, and multiple ferries operate daily between these two destinations.
2. Havelock to Neil Island: Ferries also operate between these two islands, facilitating easy travel for tourists wanting to explore both.
3. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) to Port Blair : Ferries run at regular intervals between Neil Island and Port Blair.

Booking Information

• Government Ferries: Tickets can be booked in person at the ticket counters in Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island. Some online booking options are also available on the official DSS website, but they may be limited.
• Private Ferries: These can be booked online via the operators’ websites or through travel agents. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (October to May).

Timing and Schedules

Ferries typically operate between early morning and late afternoon, as night services are rare. The schedules vary based on weather conditions, and cancellations may occur during the monsoon season (June to September) due to rough seas.