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Andaman Ship Ticket Price 2026 : At a Glance
Planning a cruise to Andaman from the mainland? A one-way government ship ticket from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam (Vizag) to Port Blair starts at ₹4,115 for a Bunk Class berth and goes up to ₹17,485 for a Deluxe Cabin (non-islander fares), depending on the vessel. Four government-operated passenger ships—MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Campbell Bay, MV Sindhu, and MV Nalanda—operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, connect Port Blair with these three mainland ports. This guide covers the latest official DSS ship fares (FY 2026–27), sailing schedules, ticket booking process, cabin classes, and essential travel tips for planning your sea journey to the Andaman Islands. All fares are one-way and exclude applicable taxes and port charges. Looking for a hassle-free trip? You can also explore our Andaman Cruise Packages that include accommodation and transfers.
Key Takeaways
- Ship fares start from ₹4,115 (Bunk Class, non-islander) and go up to ₹17,485 (Deluxe Cabin on MV Sindhu / MV Nalanda). Islander fares start from ₹1,530.
- October to March is the best time to travel by ship, offering calmer seas, pleasant weather, and smoother crossings.
- The voyage takes 56–70 hours (around 3 days), depending on the route, vessel, and weather conditions.
- Chennai and Kolkata operate 3–4 sailings per month, while Visakhapatnam (Vizag) usually has one sailing per month.
- Book through the official DSS STARS portal as soon as reservations open. Cabins for the October–March peak season often sell out within hours.
- Mainland routes are served by four government ships: MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Campbell Bay, MV Sindhu, and MV Nalanda.
- Fare source: DSS Order No. 216 (FY 2026–27), effective from 1 April 2026.
Ships on the mainland route: MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Campbell Bay, MV Sindhu, MV Nalanda. Fares per DSS Order No.216 (FY2026-27), in force from 1 April 2026. See the official DSS rates.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Travel | October–March (calm seas and pleasant weather) |
| Journey Duration | 56–70 hours (depending on route and weather) |
| Starting Fare | ₹4,115 (Bunk Class, non-islander, one-way) |
| Maximum Fare | ₹17,485 (Deluxe Cabin, MV Sindhu / MV Nalanda, one-way) |
| Mainland Departure Ports | Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam (Vizag) |
| Government Ships | MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Campbell Bay, MV Sindhu and MV Nalanda |
| Booking Portal | DSS STARS (Directorate of Shipping Services) |
| Fare Source | DSS Order No. 216 (FY 2026–27), effective from 1 April 2026 |
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Top 8 Cruises to Andaman 2026: Ship Routes from Kolkata, Chennai & Vizag
Book Andaman cruises from ₹2,630. Compare government ships MV Nicobar, Nancowry, Swarajdweep. Check schedules, cabin prices, routes & booking steps. 3–4 sailings monthly.
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Cruise to Andaman: How the Mainland Sea Route Works
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Official DSS Ship Fare Table (FY 2026–27)
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Chennai to Andaman Ship Ticket Price 2026 & Schedule
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Kolkata to Andaman Ship Ticket Price 2026 & Schedule
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Vizag (Visakhapatnam) to Andaman Ship Ticket Price 2026 & Schedule
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The Four Ships on the Andaman Mainland Route
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Kolkata vs Chennai vs Vizag: Route Comparison
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Return Trip: Port Blair to Mainland by Ship
Cruise to Andaman: Complete Travel Guide
01
Cruise to Andaman: How the Mainland Sea Route Works
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Mainland Ports | Chennai, Kolkata & Visakhapatnam (Vizag) |
| Journey Duration | 56–70 hours (approx. 3 days) |
| Ship Ticket Price | ₹4,115–₹17,485 (Non-Islander, one-way) |
| Government Ships | MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Campbell Bay, MV Sindhu & MV Nalanda |
| Booking | DSS STARS Portal & Authorized Booking Counters |
| Best Time to Travel | October–March |
Planning a Cruise to Andaman by sea is different from booking a luxury cruise. The mainland-to-Andaman service is operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, using scheduled government passenger ships that connect Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (Vizag) with Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram). These vessels sail across the Bay of Bengal and arrive at Haddo Wharf, the island’s primary passenger terminal.
For FY 2026–27, the Andaman ship ticket price starts at ₹4,115 for a Bunk Class berth and goes up to ₹17,485 for a Deluxe Cabin (non-islander fares), depending on the ship. Islander fares start from ₹1,530. Ticket prices are fixed annually by the DSS and vary based on the departure port, vessel, cabin class, and passenger category.
Unlike flights, government ships to Andaman do not operate every day. Chennai and Kolkata generally have 3–4 sailings per month, while Visakhapatnam (Vizag) usually has one sailing per month, subject to operational requirements and weather conditions. The sea journey takes approximately 56–70 hours (around three days), depending on the departure port, vessel, and sea conditions.
Passengers are classified as non-islanders (tourists and mainland travellers) and islanders (eligible residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands), with separate fare structures for each. Most mainland ships offer accommodation options such as Bunk Class, Seat, Second Class, First Class, Cabin, Deluxe Cabin, and Deluxe AC Cabin, although the available classes vary by vessel.
Ship tickets can be booked through the official DSS STARS portal or designated booking counters when reservations open. Since the number of sailings is limited, cabins during the October–March peak travel season often sell out quickly, so booking as soon as reservations open is recommended.
Related Tour Packages
02
Official DSS Ship Fare Table (FY 2026–27)
MV Swaraj Dweep & MV Campbell Bay (These Two Ships Do Not Have a Seat Class)
| Class | Non-Islander | Islander | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bunk | ₹4,115 | ₹1,530 | Shared dormitory, basic bedding, common washrooms |
| Second Class | ₹10,495 | ₹5,600 | Semi-private 4-berth cabin, shared washroom |
| 1st Class | ₹13,195 | ₹7,445 | Private 2-berth cabin, attached washroom |
| Deluxe | ₹15,905 | ₹8,245 | AC cabin, attached bath, better meals |
MV Sindhu & MV Nalanda
| Class | Non-Islander | Islander | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat | ₹2,950 | ₹1,390 | Open seating, no berth |
| Bunk | ₹4,515 | ₹1,680 | Shared dormitory, basic bedding, common washrooms |
| Second Class | ₹11,535 | ₹6,160 | Semi-private 4-berth cabin, shared washroom |
| 1st Class | ₹14,520 | ₹8,185 | Private 2-berth cabin, attached washroom |
| Deluxe | ₹17,485 | ₹9,070 | AC cabin, attached bath, better meals |
The tables above show the official DSS ship fares for FY 2026–27 for all four government passenger ships operating between Chennai, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam (Vizag), and Port Blair. The Andaman ship ticket price depends on the ship, cabin class, and passenger category.
Passengers are classified into two fare categories: Non-Islander, which applies to tourists and mainland travellers, and Islander, which is available only to eligible permanent residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands with valid supporting documents. All fares listed below are one-way and exclude applicable taxes and port charges.
Use these tables to compare cabin-wise fares across all four government ships before booking your preferred sailing.
Related Tour Packages
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03
Chennai to Andaman Ship Ticket Price 2026 & Schedule
| Class (Chennai to Port Blair) | Non-Islander | Islander |
|---|---|---|
| Bunk | ₹4,115 | ₹1,530 |
| Second Class | ₹10,495 | ₹5,600 |
| 1st Class | ₹13,195 | ₹7,445 |
| Deluxe Cabin | ₹15,905 | ₹8,245 |
Chennai is the busiest mainland gateway to the Andaman Islands, with the DSS generally operating 3–4 sailings per month. The voyage covers approximately 1,200 km across the Bay of Bengal and usually takes 56–70 hours (around three days), depending on the vessel, weather conditions, and operational schedule.
Passengers can choose from Bunk Class, Second Class, First Class, and Deluxe Cabin accommodation. Bunk Class is the most economical option, while Deluxe Cabins provide the highest level of comfort with air-conditioning and attached washrooms.
Because Chennai to Port Blair has the highest sailing frequency among all mainland routes, it is usually the easiest option for travellers with fixed travel dates. During the October–March peak season, cabin availability is limited, so book tickets as soon as reservations open is recommended.
Related Tour Packages
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04
Kolkata to Andaman Ship Ticket Price 2026 & Schedule
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | Kolkata → Port Blair |
| Journey Duration | 58–70 hours |
| Sailing Frequency | 3–4 sailings per month |
| Starting Fare | ₹2,950 (Seat Class, MV Sindhu/MV Nalanda) or ₹4,115 (Bunk Class, Swaraj Dweep/Campbell Bay) |
| Highest Fare | ₹17,485 (Deluxe Cabin, MV Sindhu/MV Nalanda) |
| Best Time to Travel | October–March |
The Kolkata to Andaman ship ticket price for FY 2026–27 starts at ₹4,115 for a Bunk Class berth and goes up to ₹15,905 for a Deluxe Cabin on MV Swaraj Dweep and MV Campbell Bay (non-islander fares). On MV Sindhu and MV Nalanda, fares start from ₹2,950 for the Seat Class and go up to ₹17,485 for a Deluxe Cabin. Islander fares start from ₹1,390. All fares are one-way and exclude applicable taxes and port charges.
The Kolkata to Port Blair ship covers a distance of approximately 1,250 km, making it the longest sea route from mainland India to the Andaman Islands. The voyage takes around 58–70 hours (about three days), depending on the vessel, weather conditions, and operational schedule. The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) generally operates 3–4 sailings per month from Kolkata.
Passengers can choose from accommodation options including Seat Class (available on MV Sindhu and MV Nalanda), Bunk Class, Second Class, First Class, Cabin, and Deluxe Cabin, depending on the ship. During the October–March peak season, cabins are usually booked quickly, so it is advisable to reserve tickets as soon as reservations open.
05
Vizag (Visakhapatnam) to Andaman Ship Ticket Price 2026 & Schedule
| Cabin Class (Vizag to Port Blair) | Non-Islander Fare | Islander Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Bunk | ₹4,115 | ₹1,530 |
| Second Class | ₹10,495 | ₹5,600 |
| First Class | ₹13,195 | ₹7,445 |
| Deluxe Cabin | ₹15,905 | ₹8,245 |
Note: The above fares apply to MV Swaraj Dweep and MV Campbell Bay. When MV Sindhu or MV Nalanda operates on the Vizag to Port Blair route, an additional Seat Class is available, and the Deluxe Cabin fare is ₹17,485 (Non-Islander) and ₹9,070 (Islander). Refer to the Official DSS Fare Table below for the complete ship-wise fare structure.
Visakhapatnam (Vizag) is the least frequent mainland departure point for travellers taking a Vizag to Andaman ship. The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) generally operates one sailing per month from Vizag to Port Blair. The voyage usually takes around 56–60 hours, making it the shortest sea route from mainland India to the Andaman Islands, although the exact journey time depends on the vessel, weather conditions, and operational schedule.
Passengers travelling on the Vizag to Andaman ship can choose from Bunk Class, Second Class, First Class, and Deluxe Cabin on MV Swaraj Dweep and MV Campbell Bay. When MV Sindhu or MV Nalanda operates on this route, an additional Seat Class is also available. The onboard facilities and separate Islander and Non-Islander fare categories remain the same across all mainland routes.
Because the Vizag to Andaman ship operates only once a month, travellers should plan well in advance. It is recommended to check the monthly sailing schedule as soon as it is published and book early through the DSS STARS portal, especially if travelling during the October–March peak season. If you are planning a return journey by sea, book both onward and return tickets together, as the limited sailing frequency can make return bookings difficult closer to the travel date.
06
The Four Ships on the Andaman Mainland Route
The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) operates four government passenger ships on the mainland routes between Chennai, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam (Vizag), and Port Blair. These vessels—MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Campbell Bay, MV Sindhu, and MV Nalanda—are assigned to sailings according to the official DSS schedule. While all four ships provide the same essential passenger service, they differ in cabin classes, seating options, and fare structure.
- MV Swaraj Dweep and MV Campbell Bay offer Bunk Class, Second Class, First Class, and Deluxe Cabin accommodation. These ships do not have a Seat Class, and their highest Deluxe Cabin fare is ₹15,905 (Non-Islander). They are among the most frequently deployed vessels on mainland sailings.
- MV Sindhu and MV Nalanda follow a slightly different fare structure by including an economical Seat Class, making them the most affordable option for budget travellers. Their Deluxe Cabin fare is higher at ₹17,485 (Non-Islander). Since the journey lasts nearly three days, Seat Class is generally recommended only for passengers prioritising cost over comfort.
The ship assigned to your journey is determined by the monthly DSS sailing schedule and cannot be selected during booking. Before confirming your ticket, check which vessel is operating on your travel date, as the available cabin classes and fares vary by ship. The comparison below provides a quick overview, followed by the complete Official DSS Fare Table.
| Ship | Cabin Classes | Seat Class | Maximum Deluxe Fare (Non-Islander) |
Route Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MV Swaraj Dweep | Bunk, Second Class, First Class, Deluxe Cabin | No | ₹15,905 | Chennai, Kolkata & Vizag (as per DSS schedule) |
| MV Campbell Bay | Bunk, Second Class, First Class, Deluxe Cabin | No | ₹15,905 | Chennai, Kolkata & Vizag (as per DSS schedule) |
| MV Sindhu | Seat, Bunk, Second Class, First Class, Deluxe Cabin | Yes | ₹17,485 | Chennai, Kolkata & Vizag (as per DSS schedule) |
| MV Nalanda | Seat, Bunk, Second Class, First Class, Deluxe Cabin | Yes | ₹17,485 | Chennai, Kolkata & Vizag (as per DSS schedule) |
Note: The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) assigns ships to each sailing based on operational requirements and the monthly sailing schedule. The vessel operating your journey may vary, so always verify the assigned ship and available cabin classes before completing your booking through the official DSS STARS portal.
07
Kolkata vs Chennai vs Vizag: Route Comparison
| Route to Port Blair | Sailings / Month | Approx. Distance | Time at Sea | Lowest Fare (NI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chennai | 3 to 4 | ~1,200 km | ~3 days (56 to 70 hrs) | ₹4,115 |
| Kolkata | 3 to 4 | 3 to 4 | ~3 days | ₹2,950 |
| Visakhapatnam (Vizag) | ~1 | ~1,200 km | ~3 days (often shortest) | ₹2,950 |
Which route should you choose? Chennai is the best option for most travellers because it offers the most frequent sailings and the greatest flexibility. Kolkata is ideal for travellers from eastern India and has a similar sailing frequency. Visakhapatnam (Vizag) offers the shortest sea journey but usually has only one sailing per month, so tickets should be booked as soon as the monthly schedule is released.
08
Return Trip: Port Blair to Mainland by Ship
Return ship services from Port Blair (Haddo Wharf) to Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (Vizag) are operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) using the same government passenger ships and fare structure as the onward journey. The Port Blair to Chennai ship ticket price, Port Blair to Kolkata ship ticket price, and Port Blair to Vizag ship ticket price remain the same as the corresponding mainland-to-Andaman route. For FY 2026–27, fares start from ₹4,115 for a Bunk Class berth on MV Swaraj Dweep and MV Campbell Bay, while MV Sindhu and MV Nalanda also offer a Seat Class from ₹2,950. The highest fare is ₹17,485 for a Deluxe Cabin, while Islander fares range from ₹1,390 to ₹9,070, depending on the ship and cabin class.
Return sailings from Port Blair to the mainland do not always align with outbound departures, and there may be a gap of several days or even a week between available sailings. If you are planning a return ship trip from Andaman, check the DSS sailing schedule before finalising your itinerary and book both the onward and return journeys as soon as reservations open, especially during the October–March peak season, when cabins sell out quickly.
Ship vs Flight to Andaman: Which to Choose
Ship vs Flight to Andaman is one of the most common questions travellers ask while planning their trip. Both options have their advantages depending on your budget, available time, and travel preferences. A government ship to Andaman offers a unique three-day journey across the Bay of Bengal at an affordable price, while a flight to Port Blair is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the islands. The comparison below will help you choose the best way to reach Andaman.
| Feature | Ship (DSS) | Flight |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Fare | ₹4,115 (Bunk Class)* | Dynamic (varies by season & airline) |
| Travel Time | 56–70 hours (around 3 days) | About 2–2.5 hours |
| Departure Frequency | 3–4 sailings/month (Chennai & Kolkata), about 1/month (Vizag) | Multiple flights daily |
| Comfort | Bunk, Second Class, First Class & Deluxe Cabin | Economy, Premium Economy & Business (airline dependent) |
| Views & Experience | Three-day sea voyage across the Bay of Bengal | Short aerial views during take-off and landing |
| Internet & Mobile Network | Limited or unavailable after leaving the mainland coast | Available before departure and after landing |
| Booking | Official DSS STARS portal | Airline websites & travel booking portals |
| Best For | Budget travellers, backpackers and travellers seeking the sea voyage experience | Families, short holidays, business travellers and those with limited time |
*Note: The ₹4,115 starting fare applies to Bunk Class on MV Swaraj Dweep and MV Campbell Bay. When MV Sindhu or MV Nalanda operates, Seat Class is available from ₹2,950 (Non-Islander).
Which should you choose? If you want to experience the journey itself, travelling to Andaman by ship is an unforgettable experience. The three-day voyage across the Bay of Bengal, multiple cabin options, and lower entry fares make it popular among backpackers, students, photographers, and travellers planning longer holidays.
If your priority is reaching the islands quickly, travelling to Andaman by flight is the better choice. Flights reach Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) in around 2–2.5 hours and operate every day from major Indian cities, making them ideal for families, senior citizens, honeymooners, and travellers on shorter itineraries.
Many experienced travellers choose the best of both worlds by travelling to Andaman by ship and returning by flight. This lets you enjoy the unique sea voyage while saving time on the return journey.
How to Book Andaman Ship Tickets: Online & Offline
Booking an Andaman ship ticket is simple once the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) releases the monthly sailing schedule. Tickets for Chennai to Andaman, Kolkata to Andaman, and Vizag to Andaman government ships can be booked through the official DSS STARS (Ship Ticket Advance Reservation System) portal or at designated offline booking counters. Since the number of sailings is limited, especially during the October–March peak season, it is recommended to book as soon as reservations open.
How to Book Andaman Ship Tickets Online
- Step 1: Visit the official DSS STARS e-ticketing portal.
- Step 2: Register a new account or log in using your mobile number and email address.
- Step 3: Select your departure port (Chennai, Kolkata, or Vizag), destination, sailing date, ship, and cabin class.
- Step 4: Enter passenger details and choose the appropriate Islander or Non-Islander category. Islander fares require valid Andaman & Nicobar residence proof.
- Step 5: Complete the payment using UPI, Debit/Credit Card, or Net Banking.
- Step 6: Download your e-ticket and carry a printed or digital copy along with your original government photo ID while boarding.
- Step 7: Report to the designated passenger terminal well before the reporting time mentioned on your ticket to complete boarding formalities.
Offline Booking Counters
If you prefer to book your Andaman ship ticket offline, you can visit the following authorised booking offices. These counters may also have a separate booking quota for selected sailings.
- Chennai: Assistant Director (Shipping Services), Jawahar Building, 2nd Floor, No. 17 Rajaji Salai, Chennai – 600001. Phone: (044) 2522 0841
- Kolkata: Shipping Corporation of India, Shipping House, 13 Strand Road, Kolkata – 700001. Phone: (033) 2482354
- Port Blair: Directorate of Shipping Services, Phoenix Bay, Port Blair – 744101. Phone: (03192) 245555 / 234299
- Visakhapatnam (Vizag): The DSS does not currently publish a permanent booking counter address online. Travellers should confirm the latest booking office and ticket availability directly with the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) before visiting.
Tip: During the October–March tourist season, Bunk Class, First Class, and Deluxe Cabin tickets often sell out quickly. For the best choice of sailing dates and cabin categories, book your tickets immediately after the monthly reservation window opens.
What to Expect Onboard
The government ships operating between mainland India and the Andaman Islands are passenger vessels designed for long-distance travel rather than luxury cruise liners. While they provide all the essential facilities for a comfortable journey, travellers should not expect resort-style amenities or onboard entertainment. The experience is best described as a slow and scenic three-day voyage across the Bay of Bengal.
Accommodation ranges from Bunk Class and Second Class to First Class and Deluxe Cabins, depending on the ship. Bunk Class consists of shared dormitory-style berths with common washrooms, while Second Class and First Class provide more privacy. Deluxe Cabins are the most comfortable option, offering air-conditioning and attached washrooms.
Every ship has a canteen serving simple vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals throughout the voyage, along with drinking water and basic medical assistance. Since mobile networks disappear soon after leaving the mainland, there is no reliable internet or Wi-Fi during most of the journey. Download movies, music, books, maps, and other essentials before boarding, and carry a fully charged power bank for your devices.
The October to March season generally offers calmer seas and a smoother journey. During the monsoon months (June–September), rougher sea conditions are common, so travellers prone to motion sickness should carry suitable medication. Spending time on the open deck during calm weather is one of the highlights of the journey, offering beautiful sunrise, sunset, and ocean views throughout the crossing.
Documents, Check-in & Baggage
Before boarding your Andaman government ship, make sure you have all the required travel documents and arrive at the passenger terminal well before the reporting time mentioned on your ticket. Boarding includes identity verification, ticket validation, baggage screening, and security checks, so reaching the terminal a few hours early is recommended.
Passengers travelling under the Islander category must carry valid Andaman & Nicobar residence proof to claim the concessional fare. Travellers who cannot produce the required documents may have to pay the applicable Non-Islander fare.
Indian citizens travelling to the main Andaman Islands do not require any special permit. Foreign nationals receive a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) on arrival at Port Blair, subject to the prevailing government regulations.
Pack only the essentials in your cabin bag and keep important items such as medicines, electronics, travel documents, valuables, chargers, and a change of clothes with you during the voyage. Larger luggage should be clearly labelled and securely locked before check-in.
Best Time to Take the Cruise to Andaman
October to March is the best time to take the cruise to Andaman. During these months, the Bay of Bengal is generally calmer, making the sea journey smoother and more comfortable. This period also coincides with the peak tourist season in the Andaman Islands, offering pleasant weather for sightseeing, beaches, scuba diving, snorkeling, and other outdoor activities. Government ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (Vizag) usually operate their regular sailing schedules, although cabins—especially First Class and Deluxe Cabins—sell out quickly. Booking your Andaman ship ticket as soon as reservations open is highly recommended.
| Travel Season | Sea Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| October – March | Calm sea, pleasant weather | ★★★★★ Best time for a cruise to Andaman |
| April – May | Warm and humid, generally calm seas | ★★★★☆ Good time to travel |
| June – September | Monsoon, rougher seas, possible schedule changes | ★★☆☆☆ Travel only if necessary |
While April and May remain suitable for travelling by ship, temperatures and humidity are higher across the islands. During the southwest monsoon (June to September), rougher seas and changing weather conditions may lead to less comfortable crossings and occasional schedule changes. If you plan to travel during this period, keep your itinerary flexible and check the latest DSS sailing schedule before departure.
Travel Tip: If you’re planning a cruise to Andaman during the October–March peak season, reserve your tickets as soon as the monthly booking window opens. Early bookings provide the best chance of securing your preferred sailing date and cabin class.
Total Trip Cost Breakdown: Sample (One Person, Round Trip by Ship)
Travelling to Andaman by ship can be significantly more economical than flying, especially if you choose Bunk Class or Second Class accommodation. The estimate below shows the approximate cost of a one-person round trip to Andaman by ship, including ship tickets, accommodation, meals, local transport, ferries, and sightseeing. Actual expenses will vary depending on your cabin class, hotel category, travel season, and itinerary.
| Expense | Approximate Cost (1 Person) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip Ship Fare (Bunk to Second Class) | ₹8,230 – ₹20,990 |
| Onboard Meals (Both Journeys) | ₹600 – ₹1,200 |
| Accommodation (6 Nights) | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Local Transport, Inter-Island Ferries & Activities | ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Estimated Total Trip Cost | ₹30,000 – ₹65,000 |
Note: This is an indicative budget for a 7–9 day Andaman trip by ship for one Non-Islander traveller. It excludes shopping, scuba diving, premium water sports, travel insurance, and personal expenses. Your final trip cost may be lower or higher depending on the cabin class, hotel category, and activities you choose.
If you prefer a hassle-free holiday with hotels, airport/port transfers, sightseeing, and ferry bookings included, explore our Andaman Cruise Tour Packages. You can also browse our complete Andaman Travel Guide for destination guides, itineraries, beaches, and travel tips.
Tips Before You Board
- Book early: Reserve your Andaman ship ticket as soon as the monthly booking window opens. During the October–March peak season, popular sailings and First Class and Deluxe Cabins often sell out quickly.
- Carry original documents: Bring your e-ticket and a valid government-issued photo ID for every passenger. Travellers using Islander fares must also carry valid Andaman & Nicobar residence proof.
- Know the permit rules: Indian citizens do not require a permit to visit the main tourist islands. Foreign nationals receive a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) on arrival at Port Blair, subject to the latest government regulations.
- Pack smart: Carry motion sickness medicine, a power bank, reusable water bottle, light snacks, essential medicines, and downloaded movies, books, or music, as mobile network and internet connectivity are unavailable for most of the sea journey.
- Plan your return journey: If you intend to return by ship, book your Port Blair to Chennai, Kolkata, or Vizag ticket at the same time as your onward journey. Return sailings are limited and may not match your preferred travel dates.
- Arrive early at the terminal: Reach the boarding terminal at least 2–3 hours before departure to complete security checks, baggage screening, and boarding formalities without any last-minute rush.
Conclusion
A cruise to Andaman remains one of the most affordable and memorable ways to reach the islands from mainland India. For FY 2026–27, the official Andaman ship ticket price ranges from ₹4,115 to ₹17,485 (Non-Islander) and ₹1,530 to ₹9,070 (Islander), depending on the ship and cabin class. Government passenger ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (Vizag) take around 56–70 hours to reach Port Blair, offering a unique three-day journey across the Bay of Bengal.
If you plan to travel during the October–March peak season, book your tickets as soon as the DSS STARS reservation window opens to secure your preferred sailing date and cabin class. For travellers looking for a hassle-free holiday, explore our Andaman Cruise Tour Packages, or browse our complete Andaman Travel Guide for itineraries, beaches, travel tips, and the best places to visit.
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise to Andaman
The Chennai to Andaman ship ticket price for 2026 starts at ₹4,115 for Bunk Class and goes up to ₹15,905 for a Deluxe AC cabin (non-islander), on MV Swaraj Dweep and MV Campbell Bay. Islanders pay from ₹1,530 to ₹8,245. All fares are one-way and exclude taxes and port charges. Source: DSS FY2026-27 order, in force from 1 April 2026.
The Kolkata to Andaman ship ticket price ranges from ₹4,115 (Bunk) to ₹17,485 (Deluxe) for non-islanders on the Swaraj Dweep-class ships. MV Sindhu and MV Nalanda also serve this route and add an open-seating Seat class at ₹2,950, with a higher Deluxe cabin at ₹17,485. Kolkata has roughly three to four departures a month.
The Vizag (Visakhapatnam) to Andaman ship ticket price uses the same DSS scale, ₹4,115 to ₹15,905 for non-islanders, from ₹1,530 for islanders. Vizag is the least frequent route, with about one sailing a month, so book as early as possible.
Islander fares apply to permanent Andaman & Nicobar residents (with domicile/ID proof) and are roughly half the tourist price. Non-islander fares apply to all mainland Indian tourists. Both are set in the same DSS order. For 2026 the non-islander range is ₹4,115 to ₹17,485 and the islander range ₹1,530 to ₹9,070 across all classes and ships.
Four ships currently run mainland to Port Blair sailings under the Directorate of Shipping Services: MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Campbell Bay, MV Sindhu and MV Nalanda. Swaraj Dweep and Campbell Bay carry Bunk, 2nd, 1st and Deluxe classes. Sindhu and Nalanda add an open Seat class below Bunk.
Plan for about three days at sea on any of the three routes, roughly 56 to 70 hours, depending on the ship and sea conditions. Vizag is often described as the shortest crossing, but durations vary, so confirm against the live DSS schedule for your sailing.
Book through the DSS STARS (Ship Ticket Advance Reservation System) e-ticketing portal at dss.andamannicobar.gov.in/eticketing. Register, pick your route, date, ship and class, add passengers, choose islander or non-islander category, and pay online. Reservations open a few weeks before each sailing and popular dates sell out within hours.
Book the day reservations open. DSS opens mainland-sailing bookings once each voyage is scheduled, typically a few weeks ahead, and peak-season cabins, plus the once-a-month Vizag sailing, can sell out within hours. For October to March travel, be ready to book two to three months before your dates.
The ship is worth it if you want the cheapest crossing (Bunk Class from ₹4,115) or the experience of the Bay-of-Bengal voyage. A flight takes about 2 to 2.5 hours versus three days at sea and often costs only a little more than a cabin-class ticket, so most time-pressed tourists fly. For budget travellers and those who enjoy the journey, the ship wins.
Indian nationals need no permit for the main tourist islands. Foreign nationals receive a free Restricted Area Permit (RAP) on arrival at Port Blair, valid for 30 days. It is issued at the airport or seaport, so no advance application is required for the main islands.
Yes. Every ship has an onboard canteen serving simple vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, typically ₹50 to ₹150 per meal. Deluxe-class passengers get better meal options. It is still worth carrying water, snacks and any specific food you need for a three-day crossing.
October to March is best. The Bay of Bengal is calmest and all three routes run at peak frequency. Avoid the southwest monsoon (roughly June to September), when seas are roughest and sailings least predictable. Book early, as the calm season is also peak tourist season.
The DSS fare table is quoted excluding taxes and port charges, so the final amount at booking may be slightly higher than the headline fare. The class fares themselves are fixed by the annual DSS order and do not change with demand.
