Havelock Island, now officially called Swaraj Dweep, remains one of the sought after locations in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Travelers cannot miss going to this Island as it offers stunning views coupled with white sandy beaches and rich marine life. In order to visit the Island, a traveler needs to plan ahead as it comes with a lot of logistics ranging from flight, ferry or cruise to shed. I am going to guide you through all the options so that you can choose the most suitable one according to your budget and comfort.
Step 1: Getting to Port Blair (the Access point for Havelock Island)
Traveling to Havelock starts with reaching Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar islands. Port Blair is connected with flights from major cities in India.
Flights to Port Blair:
People from Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore and even Delhi can directly fly to Port Blair as there are direct flights to Veer Savarkar International Airport.
- Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, Go First, SpiceJet, Vistara
- Flight Duration: 2 to 3 hours based on the departure city
- Approximate Cost: ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 (season and availability dependent for round trip)
Step 2: From Port Blair to Havelock Island
After reaching Port Blair, traveling to Havelock Island entails taking a ferry or cruise. Both provide picturesque views of the islands and waters.
Option 1: Government Ferries
These are the most affordable option for reaching Havelock Island. Government-operated ferries leave Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair on a fixed timetable.
- Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Cost: ₹450 – ₹750 per person depending on class of seating
- Booking: Head to official government tourism centers or the jetty for advance bookings.
Pros:
- Priced lower, these are ideal for budget travelers.
- Safe and reliable.
Cons:
- Limited frequency and availability.
- Overly crowded, especially in peak season.
- Fewer amenities and basic seating.
Option 2: Private Ferries and Cruises
These provide a faster and more comfortable option than government ferries. These modern ferries are equipped with air-conditioned cabins and offer better seating.
Makruzz
- Travel Time: 90 minutes
- Price: ₹1,000 – ₹1,800 based on class Economy, Premium, or Luxury
- Features: Comfortable AC seating with on board snacks
Green Ocean
- Travel Time: 2 hours
- Cost: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 per person
- Facilities: Air conditioning, seats in the shade, scenic open-air decks.
SeaLink Andaman
- Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cost: ₹900 – ₹1,600 per person
- Facilities: Recliners with modern furnishings as well as safety materials.
Pros:
- Shorter travel time compared to government ferries
- Comfortable, well-maintained seating
- Scenic views from large windows and open decks
Cons:
- More expensive than other ferries
- Limited seating, first come first serve during peak season.
Option 3: Helicopter Services (Limited Availability)
For a faster, albeit pricier, option, the Andaman administration provides helicopter services from Port Blair to Havelock Island. These are, however, limited in scope and predominantly reserved for government personnel and emergencies.
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹5,000 per person (Subject to availability)
- Booking: Through the Directorate of Civil Aviation office in Port Blair
Pros:
- Achieves head start to Havelock fastest as compared to other options
- Stunning sky views of all the islands Andaman has to offer
Cons:
- Very few spots are available for reservation
- High costs
Option 4: For Adventure Seekers – Cruise from Main Land India
Catering to all adventure needs, cruises to Port Blair are available from the mainland. Operated by SCI (Shipping Corporation of India), these cruises sail from Chennai, Kolkata, and Vizag.
- Length: 3 to 4 Days
- Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000, depending on ferry class (bunk, economy, deluxe, or cabin)
- Facilities: Dining areas, recreation zones, shared cabins
Pros:
- Unique experience of sea travel
- Suitable for adventure travelers
Cons:
- 3-4 day journey
- Less modern cruise amenities, lower comfort level than contemporary cruises
- Weather dependent
Best Travel Option for Your Needs
| Best Travel Option | Duration | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government Ferry | 2.5 – 3 hours | ₹450 – ₹750 | Budget Travelers |
| Private Ferry (Makruzz) | 90 minutes | ₹1,000 – ₹1,800 | Speed and Comfort |
| Private Ferry (Green Ocean) | 2 hours | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 | Scenic comfort |
| Helicopter | 30 minutes | ₹4,000 – ₹5,000 | Quick, premium experience |
| Cruise from Mainland | 3 – 4 days | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 | Adventure seekers |
Final Traveler Tips
- Ferry and cruise tickets tend to get booked during peak periods (November – March), so planning at least a month in advance is wise.
- Keep track of public and private ferry updates during monsoon season, as regular weather changes can disrupt schedules.
- If seating comfort is a priority, selecting premium or luxury seats would be advisable as compared to booking government ferries and economy seats which cater to budget travelers.
Itinerary Suggestion for Port Blair:
Prior to going to Havelock, make sure that you spend some time seeing the cellular jail, Corbyn’sCove Beach, and Samudrika Naval Museum.
While visiting Havelock Island, you will find that there is an option for both budget and luxury travel. In addition to somewhat ordinary ferry rides, there are also helicopter rides available that will take you to the island in no time.
