3 Cruise to Andaman Islands

To reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by waterways, one can take a ship or ferry from the Indian mainland. There are regular passenger ships and ferries that operate between the mainland and the Andaman Islands. The ships usually take 60-70 hours and have 3-4 sailings a month.This guide covers various cruise options from major Indian ports: Chennai, Visakhapatnam (Vizag), and Kolkata.

Mumbai to Andaman Cruise

If you prefer to travel by ship, you should know that there is no direct route from Mumbai to Port Blair. Instead, you need to first travel to Chennai, Kolkata, or Vizag. From these cities, government-operated ships can take you to the Andaman Islands. The journey from these locations typically takes three to four days, with distances of 1362 kilometers from Chennai, 1297 kilometers from Kolkata, and 1216 kilometers from Vizag to Port Blair. 

Cruise from Chennai to Andaman

Chennai, a bustling metropolis on the southeastern coast of India, serves as a major gateway to the Andaman Islands. Cruises from Chennai to the Andaman Islands are a blend of comfort and adventure, offering scenic views of the Bay of Bengal.

Boarding Port: Chennai Port
Distance: Approximately 1362 kilometers
Duration: Ferries depart from Chennai Port Trust and take around 50-70 hours to reach the Andaman Islands. Ferries sail 3-4 times a month.
Best Time to Cruise: The ideal time to cruise is between January and March. Cool temperatures and pleasant surroundings help reduce seasickness.
Ships: MV Nancowry, MV Nicobar, MV Swarajdweep
Average Costs:
Cost of deluxe cottages: about INR 10240
Cost of first-class cottages: about INR 5900
Cost of second class cottages: about INR 4800
Cost of bunk rooms: about INR 3500

Cruise to Andaman from Vizag

Visakhapatnam (Vizag), a major port city on the eastern coast of India, offers cruises to the Andaman Islands. This route is favored for its shorter duration compared to other western ports.

Boarding Port: Visakhapatnam Port
Duration: The journey takes approximately 56-60 hours
Distance: Approximately 1,200 kilometers (750 miles).
Best Time to Travel: The ideal months for cruising are between January and March, when the weather is cooler and the seas are calmer, helping to reduce seasickness.
Availability: A passenger ship operates every month from the Port of Visakhapatnam to Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India.
Cruises:MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Nicobar Explorer, MV Emerald, MV Coral Queen, MV Port Blair Express, MV Andaman Pearl.
Average Costs:
Cost of deluxe cottages: about INR 10240
Cost of first-class cottages: about INR 6500
Cost of second class cottages: about INR 5300
Cost of bunk rooms: about INR 3300

Cruise from Kolkata to Andaman

Kolkata, a historic city on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, is another starting point for cruises to the Andaman Islands. This route offers a unique experience as it navigates through the Bay of Bengal.

Boarding Point: Haldia Dock Complex
Distance: Approximately 1,300 kilometers (810 miles).
Duration: 3 to 4 days, depending on the specific ship and sea conditions. There are three to four sailings from Kolkata every month.
Cruise: One of the most famous cruises on this route is the MV Harshavardhana, a luxury liner. MV Nicobar, MV Nancowry, and other government-operated vessels are common on this route.
Average Costs:
Cost of deluxe cottages: about INR 10250
Cost of first-class cottages: about INR 7240
Cost of second class cottages: about INR 4400
Cost of bunk rooms: about INR 3800

How to Book a Cruise to Andaman? 

Tickets can be booked through the official website of the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) website or authorized travel agents. 
It's advisable to book tickets well in advance due to limited availability.
For clarification or additional information, contact the Directorate of Shipping Services directly. Offices in major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam provide accurate and updated schedules.

Documents required for booking: 

• Address proof
• Government ID proof
• 2 passport-sized photographs

Facilities on the Cruise

• Cabins and dormitories with different classes of accommodation. Options range from luxury cabins to economical dormitory-style bunks.
• Dining facilities offering a range of meals. Multi-cuisine restaurants and cafes serving Indian and international dishes.
• Recreational areas, including lounges and viewing decks.
• Onboard activities include live music, dance performances, movie screenings, and games.
• Medical facilities and onboard staff to assist with any needs. fitness centers, and spas.