Chennai to
Andaman Cruise
Complete Guide
Ticket prices, ship schedules, cabin types, government cruise booking, and family tour packages — everything an Indian traveller needs, in one place.
The Chennai to Andaman cruise is operated by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration (Shipping Services) — it is a government-run passenger ship service. The journey takes roughly 60 to 65 hours (about 3 days). Ticket prices range from ₹3,500 (Bunk class) to ₹11,000–₹13,000 (Deluxe A/C cabin) per person. In 2026, three ships operate this route: MV Harshavardhana, MV Akbar, and MV Nancowry. Bookings open roughly 30 days in advance on the Andaman Shipping portal (and.nic.in). Seats fill up very fast — especially cabins — so book as early as possible.
Why Take the Cruise Instead of Flying?
Honest comparison — when the ship makes sense, and when it doesn't.
Let's be real — flying from Chennai to Port Blair takes about 2 hours. The ship takes 60 to 65 hours. So why do thousands of Indian families still choose the cruise every single year?
Simple. The experience itself is the point. Waking up in the middle of the Bay of Bengal with nothing but open water in every direction, watching dolphins race alongside the ship, having chai on deck while the sun sets — it's something no flight can give you. Plus, if you're travelling with elderly parents, small kids, or a lot of luggage, the ship is often far more comfortable and practical than airport hassles.
✈️ Cruise vs Flight — Which Is Right for You?
- Choose the cruise if: You have 3–4 extra days, love the sea, travelling with family or seniors, budget is a priority, or carrying heavy luggage and gear
- Choose the flight if: Short trip (5–6 days), time is tight, travelling solo or with young children who get seasick, or visiting during rough monsoon season
- Cost comparison: A bunk berth costs ₹3,500 one way — vs ₹5,000–₹12,000 for flights. For a family of four, the savings are significant
- Experience factor: Watching the Andaman islands approach from the sea after 2.5 days at sea is genuinely one of India's most special travel moments
"The Andaman cruise is not just transport — it's the opening chapter of a sea adventure. And it's one of the last affordable passenger ship journeys still operating in India."
Ship Details — Which Ships Run This Route?
Everything you need to know about the vessels operated by Andaman and Nicobar Shipping Services.
The ships that connect Chennai to Andaman are operated by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration's Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS). These are not luxury cruise liners — they are government passenger ferries. Think of them like a very long overnight train journey, but on water. Clean, functional, and surprisingly comfortable if you book the right class.
MV Harshavardhana
Facilities on Board
- Multiple cabin classes from open bunk to A/C deluxe rooms
- Canteen serving vegetarian and non-vegetarian food (meals priced separately)
- Open deck area for fresh air — perfect for evenings
- Medical facility on board
- Separate berths for men and women in dormitory class
MV Akbar
MV Akbar is part of the same fleet and serves the Chennai-Port Blair route on a rotational basis. It also operates the Visakhapatnam–Port Blair route. Cabin classes and facilities are similar to MV Harshavardhana.
MV Nancowry
MV Nancowry is used both for interisland services within Andaman and occasionally on the mainland route. It's smaller than the other two vessels. If your booking lands on this ship, expect similar basic amenities but a slightly smaller deck space.
⚠️ Important Note About Ships
Ship assignments can change based on maintenance schedules and government decisions. Always check the official and.nic.in website after booking to confirm which ship will operate your sailing. The schedule and ship assignments are announced typically 30–45 days in advance.
Chennai to Andaman Cruise Time — What to Expect
The journey covers 1,255 km across the Bay of Bengal. Here's what those 60+ hours actually look like.
The standard sailing time from Chennai Harbour (Rajaji Salai, Chennai Port) to Port Blair (Haddo Wharf) is roughly 60 to 65 hours, though this can vary based on sea conditions. Officially it's listed as around 3 days by the Andaman Shipping department — but in reality, plan for 2.5 to 3 days one way.
🗓️ Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Journey
- Day 1 — Departure (Chennai): Ships typically depart from Chennai Port between 8 AM and 12 PM. You'll need to report at least 2 hours before sailing. The first hours are spent passing the Chennai coast and getting settled in. Open sea starts a few hours out.
- Day 2 — Open Ocean: This is the heart of the voyage. Pure Bay of Bengal — nothing but water all around. Mornings and evenings on deck are extraordinary. The canteen serves meals. Nights under open stars on deck are a memory you'll carry for years.
- Day 3 — Arrival (Port Blair): Most ships arrive at Port Blair between 8 AM and 2 PM, though delays are common. You'll spot the Andaman islands approaching — green hills rising from turquoise water. The approach into Haddo Wharf is genuinely stunning.
⚠️ Honest Warning: Seasickness
The Bay of Bengal can get rough, especially between May and September (monsoon). If anyone in your group is prone to motion sickness, carry Avomine or Stugeron tablets (available at any pharmacy). Take one the evening before departure and one on the morning of day 2. Also avoid heavy meals when the sea is choppy.
Ticket Prices 2026 — All Cabin Types
What it actually costs per person, one way, for every class of accommodation on the ship.
The Andaman government ships offer several accommodation classes — from basic open dormitory bunks to fairly comfortable A/C deluxe cabins. Here's a clear breakdown of what you get in each class and what it costs in 2026. Note that these prices can be revised by the government — always verify on the official booking portal before planning your budget.
- Shared dormitory cabin
- Fixed bunk bed
- Shared bathroom
- No A/C — fans provided
- Cheapest option available
- Semi-private cabin
- 4–6 berths per cabin
- Slightly more privacy
- Shared bathroom
- Good for small groups
- Semi-private A/C cabin
- 2 berths (bunk style)
- Attached bathroom
- Much more comfortable
- Best value with A/C
- Private A/C cabin
- 2-berth comfortable beds
- Attached bathroom
- Best experience on ship
- Ideal for couples/families
💡 Which Class Should You Book?
- Solo budget traveller: Bunk berth is perfectly fine — you'll meet fellow travellers and the experience is actually fun
- Couple: A/C 2-berth cabin — the extra cost for comfort over 60+ hours is absolutely worth it
- Family with kids: Deluxe A/C cabin or book two 2-berth A/C cabins — the kids need proper sleep for arrival
- Senior citizens / elderly parents: Always book A/C cabin — the non-A/C decks can get stuffy in the tropics, and attached bathrooms are essential for elderly travellers
⚡ Book Early — Cabins Sell Out Very Fast
A/C cabins (especially 2-berth and deluxe) typically sell out within days — sometimes within hours — of bookings opening. Bunk berths last a bit longer. The government portal opens bookings roughly 30 days before the sailing date. Set a reminder and book the moment it opens.
How to Book — Step-by-Step Guide
The government booking portal is a bit old-fashioned. Here's exactly how to navigate it without losing your mind.
Visit the Official Booking Portal
Go to and.nic.in — the official Andaman and Nicobar Administration website. Look for "Shipping Services" or "Passenger Ship Booking." This is the only legitimate government portal. Be cautious of third-party travel agents charging extra — the booking is directly available online.
Check the Sailing Schedule
The schedule is posted 30–45 days in advance. Note your desired sailing date, ship name, and origin port (Chennai, Vizag, or Kolkata). Chennai is the most frequent departure point for South Indian travellers.
Register / Login
Create an account with your mobile number and email. You'll need this for all bookings and to receive confirmation. Keep your login details safe — the portal can be finicky and resending OTPs sometimes takes a few minutes.
Enter Passenger Details
You'll need: full name (as on Aadhaar / photo ID), age, gender, and ID proof details for each passenger. Children between 5–12 years get a discounted fare. Children under 5 years are generally free but still need to be listed as passengers.
Select Cabin / Class
Choose your preferred class. A/C cabins show availability in real time — if you see them available, book immediately. The system holds your selection for a limited time only. Don't spend too long deliberating.
Pay Online
Payment via net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card. The portal accepts most major Indian bank options. After successful payment, you'll get a confirmation message and PDF ticket to your registered email and phone.
Report to Chennai Port 2 Hours Early
On sailing day, reach Chennai Port Trust (Rajaji Salai) at least 2 hours before departure. Carry printed tickets and original ID proof. Boarding verification is strict — photocopies alone may not be accepted at the gate.
📞 Alternative Booking Options
- In person: Visit the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) office in Chennai or the DSS office in Port Blair to book directly
- Authorised travel agents: Several agents in Chennai's Parry's Corner area specialise in Andaman ship bookings — they charge a small service fee but can navigate the portal for you
- IRCTC occasionally lists ship tickets on its travel portal — worth checking as the interface is cleaner than the DSS portal
Sailing Schedule 2026 — When Do Ships Sail?
The Andaman ships don't run daily — knowing the typical pattern helps you plan your trip calendar.
There is no fixed weekly timetable — the ships operate roughly 2–3 sailings per month from Chennai to Port Blair. The schedule is determined by the Andaman Administration and varies by season. The exact dates for a given month are usually announced about 30–45 days ahead.
| Season | Frequency | Booking Situation | Cabin Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct – Feb (Peak Season) | ~2–3 sailings/month | Books up fast — weeks ahead | Cabins sell out in days |
| Dec – Jan (Holiday Peak) | ~2–3 sailings/month | Extremely high demand | Book the minute it opens |
| Mar – Apr (Pre-Monsoon) | ~2 sailings/month | Moderate demand | Good availability |
| May – Sep (Monsoon) | ~1–2 sailings/month | Lower demand | Easier to get cabins |
📅 How to Track the Latest Schedule
- Official portal: and.nic.in — check the "Shipping Services" section regularly
- Facebook groups like "Andaman Tourism" and "Andaman Travel Tips India" are great community resources where members post schedule updates
- Call the Chennai Port SCI office (they answer queries about upcoming sailings)
- Follow Andaman and Nicobar Administration's social media handles — they occasionally post updates
Chennai to Andaman Cruise Packages
Not just a ticket — full holiday packages that combine the ship journey with Andaman sightseeing and stays.
Beyond just buying a ship ticket, several travel operators in Chennai and across India offer complete Andaman cruise packages — where the ship booking, Port Blair hotels, island hopping, and sightseeing are bundled together. This is especially convenient for families who don't want to coordinate every detail separately.
Andaman Budget Cruise Package
Ship + hotel stay + basic sightseeing in Port Blair and Havelock. Perfect for first-time visitors on a budget.
- Return ship tickets (bunk/berth class)
- 3-star hotel in Port Blair
- Cellular Jail tour
- Havelock day trip
- Airport/port transfers
Andaman Island Explorer Package
Covers Port Blair, Havelock, Neil Island, and Ross Island. Ship + A/C cabin + 4-star hotels + watersports.
- Return ship tickets (A/C cabin)
- 4-star Port Blair hotel
- Havelock + Neil Island ferry
- Snorkelling at Elephant Beach
- Light and Sound show
- All transfers included
Premium Andaman Cruise Package
The most comprehensive option — covering all major islands with deluxe cabin on ship and resort stays on Havelock. Best for couples and serious explorers.
- Deluxe A/C cabin (both ways)
- Boutique resort on Havelock
- Radhanagar Beach sunset
- Scuba diving session
- Neil + North Bay islands
- Mangrove kayaking
- All meals + transfers
🏢 Reliable Package Operators for Chennai–Andaman
- Andaman Tourism (Government): ANIIDCO offers official packages — check tourism.andaman.gov.in
- SOTC, Thomas Cook, Cox & Kings: Major national operators with reliable Andaman packages
- Local Chennai operators: Several agencies near Parry's Corner and Anna Salai specialise in Andaman-only packages and know the ship schedule well
- Always compare the package price with what you'd pay booking ship + hotel + ferries separately — sometimes DIY works out cheaper for experienced travellers
Chennai to Andaman Family Tour Packages
Travelling with parents, children, or a joint family? Here's how to plan it right.
Andaman is genuinely one of the best family destinations in India — calm beaches, no crowds, safe waters, and something for every age group. The cruise adds a wonderful adventure element for kids. Here's how to build the ideal family cruise trip.
👨👩👧👦 Family Ship Booking Tips
- Children aged 5–12: Pay a discounted child fare (approximately 50% of adult fare). Under-5s are free but must be listed on the booking.
- Book 2 adjoining cabins for a family of 4–6 — most ships have adjacent 2-berth A/C cabins. Request this when booking; it's not always guaranteed but often possible.
- Senior citizens get a concessional fare on government ships — carry proof of age (Aadhaar, PAN) to claim the discount at the port.
- Toiletries and snacks: Carry enough for 3 days — the ship canteen works but can be crowded. Biscuits, dry fruits, and ORS sachets for kids are essential.
- Port Blair + Havelock + Neil Island is the classic family circuit — budget 7–8 days for a comfortable experience.
🌊 Best Family Experiences in Andaman
- Radhanagar Beach, Havelock: Voted one of Asia's best beaches — gentle waves, clean sand, safe for kids
- Cellular Jail Sound & Light Show: Deeply moving for older children and adults — India's freedom struggle comes alive here
- Glass-bottom boat ride, North Bay Island: Kids absolutely love seeing coral reefs without getting wet
- Elephant Beach snorkelling: Shallow water, colourful fish — safe enough for beginners and teenagers
- Mangrove kayaking, Baratang: A slow, peaceful kayak through tropical mangrove tunnels — magical for the whole family
Essential Tips Before You Board
Practical things seasoned Andaman travellers wish someone had told them before their first voyage.
Carry Original ID
Aadhaar or passport — original, not photocopy — for every passenger including children. Port security is strict.
Seasickness Tablets
Buy Avomine or Stugeron from any pharmacy before boarding. The Bay can be unpredictable even in winter.
Pack Light for Cabins
Cabin space is tight. Keep one small bag accessible for the journey; large luggage goes to the baggage hold.
Carry Enough Cash
The ship canteen is cash-only. ATMs in Port Blair are limited. Carry ₹5,000–₹10,000 extra in cash.
Download Offline Entertainment
No mobile signal in the open ocean. Download movies, podcasts, and playlists before departure.
Wake Up for Sunrises
Deck sunrises on day 2 at sea are extraordinary. Set your alarm — this is a once-in-a-lifetime view.
Bring Your Own Snacks
Canteen queues can be long. A bag of homemade snacks, biscuits, and fruit makes the journey much smoother.
Best Travel Window
October to April is ideal. Avoid monsoon (June–September) — rough seas, possible delays, and Havelock can be partly closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Real answers to what Indian travellers search for most about this route.
