Andaman Island floats in the Bay of Bengal and remains divided from India's coastal boundaries by road. That leaves us with only two means to reach this cluster of Islands, one via ferry/ship that takes you from various ports to Port Blair and the other is via air travel. In comparison, the ferry takes around three to four days to reach Port Blair Harbor. In contrast, the airplane takes 3 to 6 hours depending on the Departure City, so air travel is the most popular and appropriate means to travel to the Andaman & Nicobar Territory.
Getting around on an island is a tad bit different from travelling within a city. First, people here are quite helpful, not that you would require much help due to the simple local transport system.The beaches in Havelock have numbers assigned to their names, and the roads are set-straight devoid of any traffic.The journey from Port Blair to Havelock takes less than 2 hours. Travellers can choose between government/private ferries. Green Ocean 1 ferry for Havelock Island and Neil Island.For transport from Port Blair to Havelock Island, take luxurious air-conditioned ferries or cruises to reach approximately ninety minutes. However, these private ferries are a bit on an expensive side but are the most convenient transportation mode from island to island in the Andaman Islands.
There are economical government ferry services available as well. Still, it takes a pretty long time of about 2.5 hours, so travellers often discard this option and opt for travelling via a private ferry. There is also a possibility of travelling by air through the operative choppers operated by Pawan Hans, a government body. Though choppers are not very common amongst the travellers, those who suffer from seasickness may opt for the same with the advanced arrangements.
Havelock Island—nestled in the pristine Andaman and Nicobar islands, known as the Swaraj Dweep—beckons travellers with its ultimate pristine beauty, vibrant coral reefs, and lush greens. Moreover, Havelock Island is also known to be a true gem of the Bay of Bengal and hence has now become a must-visit destination for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation from monotonous everyday life.
However, it involves multiple steps to reach Havelock Island, starting with a flight to Port Blair, the capital city of this archipelago. From Port Blair, you may travel via ferries, seaplanes, or even helicopters as per your convenience and budget. Upon visiting this serene and amazingly beautiful destination, a plethora of activities are waiting for you for exploration. So, what’s the wait for? So, are you ready to embark on this thrilling trek with us? Let’s get started!
Reaching Havelock Island, one of the most beautiful destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago can happen in multiple ways. However, the most suited and preferred mode of transport is known to be by air. However, to travel to the destination via air would further involve a sea journey too. The nearest airport in Port Blair is Veer Savarkar International Airport, which involves good connectivity from major Indian cities.
Moreover, people travelling from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bengaluru can expect direct flights, making it quite accessible from major parts of India. Additionally, if you’re an international traveller, you would have to undertake a connecting flight. A common route would involve flying to the major Indian cities that have international connections such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, and then taking a connecting flight to reach Port Blair.
Well, if you’ve chosen to route the Havelock Island via sea, then probably there are options of every budget type. People with a budget-friendly tour package often opt for Government ferries, which also have regular departures. However, the schedule has to be checked on the official website. Tickets for this can either be booked online or purchased from the ferry terminal in Port Blair.
If you do not have any budget constraints and are willing for a more comfortable and quick ride, then you may choose to travel via private cruises like Makruzz, Nautika, Green Ocean and more. There are certain amenities like private fully air conditioned cabins, along with refreshments.
We’ve curated further details via the table below:
Ferry Type | Departure from Port Blair | Departure from Havelock | Duration | One-Way Fare (INR) |
Government Ferry (Economy Class) | 6:00 AM | 12:30 PM | 2.5 - 3 hours | 600 - 700 |
Government Ferry (Premium Class) | 7:00 AM | 3:00 PM | 2.5 - 3 hours | 800 - 900 |
Makruzz | 6:00 AM | 7:30 AM | 1.5 - 2 hours | 1100 - 1875 |
Nautika | 7:30 AM | 9:00 AM | 1.5 - 2 hours | 1650 - 1750 |
Green Ocean | 6:30 AM | 8:45 AM | 1.5 - 2 hours | 1050 - 1550 |
ITT Majestic | 7:00 AM | 1:45 PM | 1.5 - 2 hours | 1500 - 1820 |
If you’re willing and have enough time for a combination of travel, then you can even choose to travel via road and sea. For those who are travelling via the nearby cities in mainland India, then a road trip to Port Blair can be an option. This journey involves crossing the mainland city of India and then taking a ferry to Havelock Island. Once you reach Port Blair, you may take the inter-island transport options such as seaplanes or even ferries that would connect you to Havelock Island. However, this journey might be time-consuming but super adventurous and would give you a travel experience that other routes might not. Additionally, choosing this route would even make you explore and admire the scenic beauty of the Andaman Sea.
However, the best time to travel to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) would be during the peak season, which is reportedly from October to February. It is because the weather during these months remains pleasant and the travellers would experience a comfortable travel throughout. Moreover, rainfall during these months would be minimal, and the skies would mostly remain clear during these peak months, giving you opportunities to enjoy activities at the beach, and water, and explore the island to the fullest.
Those who call them adventurers should note that the sea remains calm during these months, which makes it quite ideal for enjoying activities like snorkelling, diving and other water-based activities. Additionally, if we talk about the crowd, you must be prepared in advance that you’re going to witness huge crowds and the accommodation rates during these peak hours would generally be high during the peak season.
Various beaches on Havelock Island are worth visiting. Let’s discuss some of them in detail below:
1. Radhanagar Beach
Radhanagar Beach which is nestled in Havelock Island is also popularly known as “Beach Number 7”, and hence also hailed as one of Asia’s best beaches. If visiting Havelock Island, visiting this beach would be a must. Why? It is all surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters, pristine white sands, and swaying palm trees that create a serene and picture-perfect scene. Furthermore, the most blissful time to explore Radhanagar beach would be during the sunset, which makes up to be the best time for spending romantic evenings with your partner.
2. Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach is another picturesque beach that is located amidst the lush greens of Havelock Island. Moreover, this pristine beach is only accessible by boat or even by taking a short trek through the jungle. Moreover, Elephant Beach is also known for its vibrant coral reefs and diversified marine life and is hence regarded as a haven for water-based activities like scuba diving and even snorkelling.
3. Vijay Nagar Beach
Vijay Nagar Beach, which is also commonly known as Mangrove Beach is another beach that offers a super serene beach nestled away from the crowds in Havelock Island. The best thing about this beach is that it resides in a secluded setting amidst the serene atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those willing to relax, beachcombing or for those who simply want to enjoy the serenity of the natural landscape.
4. Kala Pathar Beach
Kala Pathar Beach is a beach on Havelock Island that features black sand. It is a result of a volcanic eruption. Furthermore, the best thing about this beach is the contrast of the black sand against the turquoise waters which creates a striking effect. However, those who are willing to undergo swimming or other water activities might have to limit themselves here, due to the presence of the rocks. However, people can indulge in long walks at this beach, while enjoying the beauty and serenity of nature.
5. Govind Nagar Beach
Govind Nagar beach which is located towards the southern end of Havelock island, is another stunning and eye-gazing beautiful beach, which is a stretch of white sand. What’s the best part? This beach is a great spot for activities such as swimming, and snorkelling among ample other water activities.
There’s a delightful blend of culinary experiences that is offered by the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. It offers the freshest seafood and at the same time a blend of continental and local flavours. Let’s discuss what’s the best food offered by the region:
1. Seafood Delights
As it is a coastal location, seafood in this region reigns supreme. So, dear travellers, what's better than indulging in savouring the succulent grilled fish flavourful and aromatic prawn curries, and the island’s signature lobster dishes?
2. Local Specialities
Local delicacies such as Andamanese fish curry, coconut prawn curry and even squid fry are the must-savour dishes of this region. Moreover, cooking these unique dishes requires great cooking skills, availability of special spices and knowledge of the cooking technicalities which reflects the island’s rich culinary heritage.
3. Vegetarian Options
Even if it's a coastal region, still you will get a variety of options for vegetarian food. Options like dal fry, vegetable curries, and several local curries like banana flower curry will be readily available in the archipelago.
4. International Flavours
If you’re willing to change the pace of food in your life and willing to explore some international cuisines, then this option can also be readily accessed. You may find a variety of cuisines in the region like continental, Chinese, Italian and more.
There’s an exciting blend of adventurous activities to be a part of at Havelock Island. Let’s discuss what they are below:
1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The underwater world stays loaded with vibrant and super colourful coral reefs, diverse marine life and exotic fishes, so what would be better than exploring these at the pristine beaches of Havelock Island? Moreover, you can even discover and explore breathtaking dive sites like Nemo Reef, Barracuda City, and Turtle Bay, offering pristine and unique underwater adventures.
2. Kayaking
The best way to explore and glide through the beautiful creeks and mangrove forests would be to explore the forests in a kayak. Moreover, this way you’d even be able to explore the serenity and tranquillity of the natural surroundings while even getting a chance to spot the rare and unique bird species. Also, those hidden coves which otherwise would have been a lot more difficult to explore.
3. Trekking
A lot of trekkers visit Havelock Island as it is equipped and enriched with lush greens, and even gives a glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna. So, trekking is another good activity to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the natural environment.
1. Book Flights and Accommodations Early
Well, it would be always secure to plan in advance for the flights and accommodations, especially if you’re planning to visit during the peak season. Moreover, doing this would open some great advantages for you in the form of great deals and discounts, and a wide range of opportunities.
2. Be Flexible with Dates
If you have some options to choose the dates, always make sure to consider your travel during the shoulder season. This involves spring, fall and off-peak seasons. It is because during this time you will be able to enjoy the island in a peaceful manner, while also witnessing lesser crowds.
3. Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language
It always helps to learn a few basic phrases in the local language. How? This would help you to enhance your interactions with the locals, which in turn would make your trip fruitful and a lot easier.
To make the experience of island vacation even more memorable, staying at a beachfront accommodation is definitely a great idea.
Read experiences from our happy guests who’ve enjoyed unforgettable stays. Hear their stories and see why our resort is the perfect getaway to stay.
An incredible experience! The candlelight meal on the beach was pure beauty. An excellent lunch with the waves lapping at my feet provided the ideal romantic scene. An absolute must-do for couples!
New Year's Eve Celebration! The Havelock Island Beach Resort hosted the island's most memorable celebration. The decorations and countdown to midnight provided an excellent start to the new year!
Dive into fun! The 5 Star PADI scuba diving facility surpassed my expectations. The personnel was informed and pleasant, leading us through stunning underwater views. An outstanding highlight of our visit to Havelock!
Adventure and relaxation! Our stay at the resort was an ideal combination of intense scuba dives and relaxing beach leisure. The 5-star diving facility is excellent; the personnel made us feel at home!
Dining excellent! The only 24-hour eatery on the island was a lifeline! The food was always superb, whether breakfast or a late-night snack. It is a magnificent selection that caters to all preferences.
Memorable memories! My partner's birthday was celebrated with a candlelight supper on the shore, which was beautiful. The staff went above and above to make it unique, including a bespoke cake.
You can reach this island by sea. Private and government ferries operate from Port Blair and Neil Island, which are the neighboring islands. These are the lifeline of the Andaman Islands as they connect so many islands with each other. The same can be booked through Andaman Island Travels for an easy and worry-free experience.
Lifeline of the Andaman Islands, government ferries cater to the needs of a huge number of passengers for transfer from one island to the other. The tickets of this ferry get sold out fast as it is taken by residents as well as tourists. Its ticket can be booked only a couple of days in advance. One has to book the tickets manually three days before the trip at the STARS counter by standing in a queue if someone wishes to take a government ferry.
To reach Havelock Island from Port Blair, there are various companies that offer high speed and spacious cruises in the Andaman Islands. Tourists mostly prefer private cruises as these are convenient and also, their booking process is easy. Compared to government ferries, these cruises are more comfortable and faster. Their tickets can easily be booked online. But private cruises are costlier compared to the government ferries.
It is quite easy to roam around Swaraj Dweep. Roads here are smooth and you will not get lost anywhere. And in case you get lost, then the friendly locals will help you for sure. Below mentioned are some of the ways to get around the island:
Around one hour is needed to reach Havelock Island from Neil Island via private ferries.
Located about 57 kilometers from Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you can reach Havelock Island via sea without any trouble. It takes nearly two to three hours to reach Havelock Island from Port Blair. There are frequently available ferries and cruises operating between the two places. You can choose as per your convenience and budget as both government ferries and private cruises are functional to the island. The ferries leave from Phoenix Bay Wharf.
You can make this booking by contacting Andaman Island Travels. The tour operator will book the tickets on your behalf and you will not be required to stand in a long queue. The seating categories are chairs and seats in these ferries and they have a capacity of up to 145 passengers.
The below-mentioned cruises are available in the Andaman Islands:
Makruzz- Introduced in the Andamans, it is the first-ever high-speed luxury catamaran cruise that is dual-hulled. It offers its passengers more space and stability during their journey. It is fully air-conditioned and very comfortable. Having two decks, it can hold up to 280 passengers. There are three categories for guests- Premium, Deluxe, and Royal. In 2019, Makruzz has two succeeding editions that have joined its fleet by the names Makruzz Gold and Makruzz Pearl.)
Green Ocean- Green Ocean 1 is the second most popular cruise. Its built is quite similar to the government ferries, but it has better seating facilities, is air-conditioned, and is more spacious. The cruise has an open deck where one can freely move around and have a look at the open seascape during the voyage. With three categories for passengers (Executive, Luxury, and Royal), its seating capacity is 220 passengers. It has a catamaran version of it as well. Green Ocean 2 is the faster version and the new edition that has joined the Green Ocean fleet.)
Sea Link Cruise- It is the latest cruise to be introduced in the Andaman Island that has been imported from Singapore. The cruise has amazing looks and spacious interiors that are surely going to give you an unforgettable experience. Premium, Business, and Premium Plus are its different categories. Due to convenient timings and distinctive looks, Sea Link cruise has begun to gain preference from travellers. )
ITT Majestic- Another high-speed luxury cruise transferring passengers to Swaraj Dweep, this cruise is air-conditioned and has comfortable seats. So that you can enjoy fabulous sea views from your seats, there are huge transparent glasses in windows running through the entire length of the cruise. There are two different categories- Silver and Majesty. The cruise has a seating capacity of 200 passengers. Cruises and ferries for Havelock Island are available from Port Blair as well as Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Nearly two hours are needed to reach Havelock Island from Port Blair via private ferries.
On December 30, 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Havelock Island would be renamed as Swaraj Dweep. One of the largest islands comprising a chain of islands to the east of Great Andaman in the Andaman Islands, Havelock Island belongs to the South Andaman administrative district. Located between Peel Island and Neil Island, the island belongs to the Ritchie’s Archipelago. It is 41 kilometers northeast of the capital city, Port Blair. Politically, Havelock Island is part of Port Blair taluk.
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