Leaving the turquoise waters of Radhanagar Beach behind feels like waking up from a dream, but the journey back to the capital of the Andaman Islands is an experience in its own right. As your ferry pulls away from the jetty at Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), the sight of the dense tropical forests meeting the white sand shore creates a lasting memory of India's most remote archipelago. The transition from the laid back island pace back to the bustling historical streets of Port Blair marks the final chapter for many visitors exploring this region.
The stretch of the Andaman Sea between these two points can be unpredictable, ranging from glass-like calm to choppy swells during the monsoon transitions. Because there are no bridges or roads connecting these islands, the ferry is your lifeline. Whether you are returning to catch a flight or heading to explore the Cellular Jail, choosing the right vessel and class makes all the difference in how you remember your final island hop. You can easily secure your spot on these vessels by booking through GoAsia.cc to ensure you do not get stranded at the jetty.
Havelock Island to Port Blair by Ferry
The ferry is the exclusive mode of transport for this route, with several private operators providing a range of comfort levels. The journey typically takes between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 15 minutes, depending on the specific vessel and sea conditions. Prices for this crossing generally range from $22 to $47, reflecting the diversity of seating options available to travelers.
Economy and Premium Classes
For those looking for a balance between cost and comfort, the Economy and Premium classes are the standard choice. These cabins are fully air-conditioned, which is a necessity in the humidity of the Andamans. While these sections are the most affordable, starting at around $22, they can feel a bit crowded during peak tourist months. The seating is usually arranged in a 3-3 or 3-4 configuration similar to an airplane, with large windows that allow you to watch the flying fish skipping over the waves.
Deluxe and Luxury Classes
Stepping up to the Deluxe or Luxury tiers provides a bit more legroom and often a quieter cabin environment. These mid-range options are perfect if you want to avoid the high-energy atmosphere of the larger economy sections. The Luxury class vessels often feature better upholstery and slightly faster boarding processes. Prices for these mid-tier seats sit comfortably in the middle of the spectrum, providing a noticeable upgrade in relaxation for a few extra dollars.
Royal Class
The Royal Class represents the pinnacle of travel between Havelock and Port Blair. Located on the upper decks of the catamarans, this class offers the best views and the most personalized service. With wider reclining seats and a smaller cabin shared with fewer passengers, it is the ideal choice for those who want a premium experience. At the top end of the price range, around $47, you get the quietest environment and the smoothest ride, as the upper decks often feel the motion of the sea less intensely than the lower sections.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry (Economy) | $22 | 2h 15min | Standard |
| Ferry (Premium/Deluxe) | $25 - $35 | 2h | High |
| Ferry (Royal/Luxury) | $40 - $47 | 1h 30min | Excellent |
Tips for Traveling from Havelock Island to Port Blair
- Book in Advance: Ferries between Havelock and Port Blair are notorious for selling out, especially during the high season from October to May. It is highly recommended to book your tickets at least a few weeks before your trip.
- Arrival at the Jetty: Reach the Havelock Jetty at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure. Security checks and luggage scanning can take time, and boarding usually closes 15 minutes before the ship sails.
- Motion Sickness: If you are prone to sea sickness, try to book a seat in the middle of the vessel on a lower deck where the swaying is less pronounced. Taking a preventative tablet an hour before boarding is also a wise move.
- Luggage Handling: Most private ferries have a dedicated area for large suitcases. Keep your valuables, electronics, and any necessary medications in a smaller carry-on bag that stays with you at your seat.
- Weather Awareness: During the monsoon months (June to September), ferry schedules can be disrupted by heavy rain or high winds. Always have a buffer day in Port Blair before your flight home to account for potential cancellations.
Timetable
| Ferry Havelock Island - Port Blair $ 21.95–46.86 1h 30m – 2h 15m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Havelock Island to Port Blair directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel this route is by booking an Economy Class seat on a ferry, which costs approximately $22. These tickets provide a comfortable, air-conditioned journey at the most budget-friendly price point.
The fastest way to reach Port Blair is by taking one of the high-speed catamarans, which can complete the journey in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Some larger or slower vessels may take up to 2 hours and 15 minutes.
The travel time varies between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 15 minutes. The exact duration depends on the type of vessel you choose and the sea conditions on the day of travel.
Most private ferries have a small kiosk or snack bar on board selling bottled water, coffee, tea, and light snacks like sandwiches or biscuits. However, it is always a good idea to carry your own water and snacks for the short trip.
While there is no strict weight limit like on an airplane, passengers are generally expected to carry a reasonable amount of luggage (usually up to 25kg). Large items are stored in a common luggage area on the deck or at the back of the cabin.
This depends on the specific ferry operator and the weather. Some private catamarans are fully enclosed for safety and air conditioning, while others may allow passengers to visit a small outdoor deck area once the vessel is at cruising speed.