Green Ocean Ferry: Complete Review + Booking Guide 2026

Green Ocean Ferry: Complete Review + Booking Guide 2026

What is Green Ocean Ferry? (Quick Overview)

Green Ocean ferry is Andaman’s most budget-friendly private ferry service, operating 2 vessels between Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island since 2015. Starting at just Rs 1,100 for Economy class, Green Ocean andaman costs 20-30% less than competitors like Makruzz and Nautika. The trade-off? Your journey takes about 2 hours 15 minutes instead of the standard 90 minutes.

Green Ocean Seaways Private Limited runs their flagship Green Ocean 1 (316 passengers) with Andaman’s only private ferry open deck — perfect for sunset photos and fresh ocean air. Green Ocean 2 (198 passengers) offers faster routes with enclosed comfort at 23 knots versus GO1’s leisurely 13 knots. Both vessels operate under regulations set by the Directorate of Shipping Services, the authority overseeing all Andaman ferry operations.

For budget travelers and photography enthusiasts who aren’t rushing, it’s often the smartest choice. A family of 4 saves Rs 2,000-3,000 per trip compared to premium operators.

Ready to save big on your island hopping? Check live Green Ocean schedules and book instantly →

Green Ocean 1 vs Green Ocean 2: Which Vessel Should You Choose?

Green Ocean 1 offers the unique open deck experience but takes longer (2h 15m), while Green Ocean 2 runs 20 minutes faster in fully enclosed comfort. Here’s what most booking sites won’t tell you: these are completely different experiences.

Green Ocean 1: The Open Deck Experience

Built in 1988, this 47.35-meter workhorse carries 316 passengers across 3 decks at a maximum 13 knots. It’s Andaman’s slowest private ferry, but that open deck cafeteria creates magic — feel the ocean breeze, spot dolphins, and capture sunset photos impossible through tinted windows.

Best for: Photography enthusiasts, first-timers wanting the authentic ferry experience, budget travelers (Economy class available), anyone who gets claustrophobic

Skip if: You’re racing between activities with tight schedules, traveling during December-March when winds make the open deck less enjoyable

Green Ocean 2: Speed and Enclosed Comfort

The 1996-built vessel stretches 35 meters with 198 seats and significantly faster 23-knot speed, cutting 15-20 minutes off journey times. Fully enclosed design with transparent glass panels means no sea spray but also no fresh air. The modern restaurant serves better food than GO1’s basic cafeteria.

Best for: Speed-focused travelers who still want Green Ocean’s budget pricing, afternoon departures

Choose GO2 if: You prefer air-conditioned comfort over open-air experience

Route assignments change seasonally, but GO1 typically handles scenic Port Blair to Havelock morning routes while GO2 covers afternoon express services.

Green Ocean Seating Classes: Economy vs Premium vs Royal

Economy class (Rs 1,100-1,400) offers the cheapest island hopping in Andaman, Premium (Rs 1,450-1,750) provides the sweet spot for comfort and access, while Royal (Rs 1,550-1,850) adds minimal value over Premium.

Economy Class - Green Ocean 1 Only

Available exclusively on GO1’s lower deck with ~101 basic cushioned seats. It’s 20-30% cheaper than competitors but expect crowds and limited views. Pro tip: Book seats 1-20 near the front for less engine noise. Avoid rows 81-101 at the back unless you enjoy diesel fumes.

Premium Class - The Sweet Spot

Premium bumps you to the middle deck (GO1) or main deck (GO2) with wider seats and better legroom. The real advantage on GO1? Direct access to that famous open deck cafeteria without climbing stairs. Recommended seats: 40-55 on GO1 for the perfect balance — close to open deck, away from engine room.

Royal Class - Skip Unless Desperate

Upper deck positioning offers the best views and least engine vibration, but the extra cost over Premium isn’t justified. GO1’s Royal has ~48 seats while GO2 offers just ~28. Royal fills up last during peak season, making it your backup option.

Money-saving insight: The 6:30 AM GO1 departure maintains base fares even during peak season when afternoon services add Rs 100 surcharges.

Green Ocean Routes & Schedule (2026 Update)

Green Ocean operates 10 daily departures across both vessels, with GO1 handling early morning Port Blair runs (6:30 AM) and GO2 covering afternoon express services. Both vessels run the synchronized Port Blair-Havelock-Neil circuit with strategic timing to maximize coverage.

Current Schedule:

Green Ocean 1 Timetable

• PB→HL: 06:30–08:45 (~2h15m)
• PB→HL: 13:15–15:30 (~2h15m)
• HL→PB: 15:45–18:00 (~2h15m)
• HL→NL: 09:15–10:30 (~1h15m)
• NL→PB: 11:00–12:45 (~1h45m)

Green Ocean 2 Timetable

• PB→HL: 07:00–09:00 (~2h)
• PB→HL: 11:45–13:45 (~2h)
• HL→PB: 09:30–11:30 (~2h)
• HL→NL: 14:15–15:30 (~1h15m)
• NL→PB: 15:45–18:00 (~2h15m)

The 6:30 AM GO1 departure remains the most reliable year-round — it only cancels in severe weather. During October-May peak season, expect full schedules. Come monsoon (June-September), afternoon services often get cancelled or merged.

Planning tip: Morning ferries offer calmer seas and better photography light. The vessels essentially leapfrog each other throughout the day for maximum route coverage. Check our complete ferry schedules guide for all operators.

Green Ocean Pricing: What You’ll Actually Pay in 2026

Green Ocean booking starts at Rs 1,100 for Economy class (Port Blair-Havelock), making it Andaman’s most affordable private ferry option. All fares include the mandatory Rs 50 Passenger Service Charge, but add Rs 100 peak season surcharge from December 1-January 31.

Port Blair to Havelock Fares

Green Ocean 1 (3 classes):

• Economy: Rs 1,100 (AM) → Rs 1,400 (PM)
• Luxury/Premium: Rs 1,450-1,750
• Royal: Rs 1,550-1,850

Green Ocean 2 (2 classes, no Economy):

• Premium: Rs 1,350-1,450
• Royal: Rs 1,700-1,800

Havelock to Neil Island Fares

Higher per-kilometer pricing reflects shorter route economics:

• GO1: Economy Rs 1,350, Premium Rs 1,700, Royal Rs 1,900
• GO2: Premium Rs 1,500, Royal Rs 1,700

Competitor Price Comparison (Same Route)

• Makruzz Premium: Rs 1,250-1,950
• Nautika Luxury: Rs 1,250-1,900
• ITT Majestic Silver: Rs 1,564-1,650

Family savings example: A family of 4 choosing Green Ocean saves Rs 2,000-3,000 per Port Blair-Havelock trip. Children above 2 pay full fare (no discounts), while infants under 2 travel for Rs 105.

Fuel Surcharge (March 2026): A temporary fuel surcharge of Rs 300 per person per trip applies on all Green Ocean ferries due to the Iran conflict driving up marine diesel costs. This applies across all classes.

Compare all ferry prices and book the best deal →

What Is the Green Ocean Journey Actually Like?

Expect 2 hours 15 minutes actual journey time to Havelock in calm seas, stretching to 2.5 hours when waves pick up. That advertised 2-hour time? Marketing optimism. The open deck everyone raves about delivers amazing experiences in good weather, but December-March winds mean constant spray.

Onboard Amenities Reality Check

The cafeteria serves basic snacks at reasonable prices — Maggi noodles (Rs 50), instant coffee/tea (Rs 30-40), packed cookies, and bottled water. Don’t expect gourmet dining. Green Ocean 1’s aging toilets stay reasonably clean with TV screens on each deck, while GO2’s newer facilities include a baby changing station.

Seasickness note: Here’s something counterintuitive — despite the older mono-hull design, Green Ocean’s much slower cruising speed actually makes for a smoother, more comfortable ride than the high-speed catamarans. We’ve traveled on all Andaman operators, and Green Ocean’s gentle pace means less jolting and pitching. If you’re prone to seasickness, the slower journey on GO1 or GO2 may actually be a better choice than racing across at 30 knots on Makruzz or Nautika.

The Open Deck Social Scene

After the first hour, expect the DJ to pump Bollywood hits creating an impromptu dance floor — and yes, this really happens. We’ve been on GO1 multiple times and the open deck transforms into a full-on party vibe with passengers dancing, taking selfies, and generally having a blast. It’s Instagram gold or headphone hell, depending on your perspective. The open deck becomes the ferry’s social hub, and it’s something you genuinely won’t get on any other Andaman operator.

Pro tips for comfort: Bring a light jacket (AC runs cold indoors, wind affects open deck), protect your camera from spray, pack noise-canceling headphones if crowds aren’t your thing, and keep essentials in your day bag since checked luggage stays below deck.

Read our complete seasickness prevention guide →

How to Book Green Ocean Ferry: Step-by-Step Guide

Online Green Ocean booking beats counter booking every time with guaranteed seats, instant confirmation, and you skip the Haddo Jetty queues. The process takes 5 minutes but requires specific preparation.

Booking Process

1. Visit official site: tickets.greenoceanseaways.com or comparison sites like BookYourFerry
2. Select route: Choose departure port, destination, and travel date
3. Pick vessel/class: GO1 for open deck experience, GO2 for speed
4. Enter passenger details: Valid photo ID required for each traveler
5. Pay securely: Online payment with instant confirmation

Critical requirement: You MUST bring printed tickets to the jetty. Screenshots don’t work. Forgot to print? The cyber cafe outside Haddo Jetty charges Rs 20 per page.

Check-in Procedure

• Arrive: 45-60 minutes before departure at Green Ocean counter (middle section of Haddo Jetty)
• Required: Printed tickets and original photo ID for each passenger
• Boarding: Starts 20 minutes before sailing — they won’t wait for late arrivals
• Baggage: Goes through X-ray screening, 20kg limit per person

Cancellation Rules

• 72+ hours: Partial refund available
• 48-72 hours: Rs 150 fee per ticket
• 24-48 hours: 40% refund only
• Under 24 hours: Zero refund
• Weather cancellations: Full refund in 7-10 days

Booking tip: The 15-20 day advance booking window offers base fares. Last-minute bookings often carry convenience charges, especially during December-February peak season. For a complete Andaman ferry booking guide covering all operators, see our pillar article.

Green Ocean vs Makruzz vs Nautika: Detailed Comparison

Choose Green Ocean when price matters most or you want the unique open deck experience. Pick Makruzz or Nautika for speed, comfort, and business travel reliability.

Raw numbers tell the story: Green Ocean takes 45 minutes longer but costs 20-30% less than premium operators. Your Port Blair to Havelock journey runs 2h 15m versus 1h 30m on competing ferries. If you’re weighing the cheapest option, don’t overlook government ferries which cost Rs 630-920 but have limited booking windows. For a detailed ferry comparison of all Andaman operators, see our guide.

When to Choose Each Operator

Green Ocean advantages: Lowest fares, authentic open deck experience, less crowded than Makruzz, meets price-sensitive Indian family budgets

Makruzz advantages: Fastest journey times, aircraft-style seating, strongest AC, 1.5M+ passengers served, most reliable schedule

Nautika advantages: Newest catamarans, business class ferry option (Nautika Pro), modern amenities, consistent service

Cancellation rates: All operators run similar 5-8% annually, mostly weather-related during monsoon season.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Green Ocean Ferry?

Genuine Pros That Matter

• Rs 1,100 Economy fare makes island hopping affordable for budget travelers
• Unique open deck experience on GO1 creates memories impossible elsewhere
• Less crowded than premium ferries since price-sensitive tourists often fly
• Morning schedules rarely cancel — 6:30 AM departure is ultra-reliable
• 4.5-star ratings from 800+ verified BookYourFerry reviews
• Family savings: Rs 8,000-10,000 saved on typical Port Blair-Havelock-Neil circuit

Honest Cons You Should Know

• Extra 45 minutes feels much longer on rough seas
• Worn interiors especially on 1988-built GO1 show their age
• Weather-dependent open deck — December-March winds make it uncomfortable
• Limited schedule flexibility with 10 daily departures versus Makruzz’s 13
• Longer journey time means more time at sea, though the slower speed is actually gentler on stomachs

Who Should Choose Green Ocean

Perfect for: Budget backpackers, photography enthusiasts, open deck experience seekers, flexible schedule travelers, groups of 8+ saving for extra accommodation nights, first-timers wanting authentic ferry atmosphere

Consider alternatives if: You have tight activity schedules, prefer luxury amenities, connecting to same-day flights (risk missing connections), or are Type-A personalities who hate longer journeys

The sweet spot combines budget consciousness with adventure spirit — those willing to trade 45 minutes for significant savings and unique experiences.

What Are the Best Tips for Booking Green Ocean Ferry?

Book 15-20 days ahead for base fares as prices jump Rs 200-300 in the final week. The morning 6:30 AM GO1 departure offers calmest seas and best rates year-round, even during peak season.

Weather-Based Strategy

• November-February: Perfect conditions for open deck enjoyment
• March-May: Hot but calm seas, manageable open deck experience
• June-September: Prepare for cancellations — book morning slots with refundable fares

Money-Saving Secrets

• Groups of 10+ can negotiate 5-10% discounts directly with Green Ocean’s Port Blair office (03192-232496)
• Student groups with valid ID sometimes get additional off-season concessions
• Last-minute miracles: Cancellations release seats 24-48 hours before departure
• Peak season reality: Even Economy sells out 3 weeks ahead during December holidays

Insider Knowledge

The company incorporated December 13, 2014, maintains offices at 2nd Floor, Island Arcade Building, Junglighat. Green Ocean operates on routes approved by the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, which oversees all inter-island transport services. For Havelock to Neil Island routes, GO2’s afternoon service runs 20 minutes faster with its 23-knot speed advantage.

Critical reminder: Luggage undergoes X-ray scanning and name corrections aren’t permitted after booking. Keep medications, snacks, and entertainment in your day bag since checked luggage remains inaccessible during sailing.

What Real Travelers Say About Green Ocean

Based on analysis of 139 verified Google reviews, Green Ocean earns praise for its one-of-a-kind open deck experience and genuinely warm crew — especially customer service attendant Arpita, who appears by name in dozens of reviews.

“Comfortable and the most economical way to travel from Port Blair to Havelock. The lower cost did not mean poor facilities in any way. The dance floor on the top deck was a good touch.” — Verified Google Review, January 2026

“We travelled in Makruzz, Nautica and Green Ocean and we had the best experience in Green Ocean. It may not be brand new and sparkling, but the ride quality was good, they arrived and left on time and luggage management was also good. The AC worked fine which wasn’t the case with the other two.” — Verified Google Review, March 2024

“Our little one’s cap flew into the sea and he was devastated. But then, along came Arpita Das from the crew, and she totally saved the day! She handled the situation so sweetly and got our child smiling again.” — Verified Google Review, January 2026

“Mr. Bijoy Kumar the chief engineer was such a kind person, greeted us so well and gave us homely feeling — it’s a core memory. The cruise is very hygienic and well maintained. Never knew I would fall in love with a ferry ride but Green Ocean 1 is beyond!” — Verified Google Review, April 2025

Honest caveats from reviews: Negative reviews frequently cite rough luggage handling (bags tossed onto the platform), the DJ music on the open deck that some find unbearably loud, and persistent cleanliness issues on the older GO1 vessel — cockroaches and diesel smell appear in multiple complaints. The open deck that everyone loves becomes a liability during monsoon season when crew blocks access in rough seas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Ocean Ferry

Why is Green Ocean cheaper than Makruzz and Nautika?

Older vessels with higher operating costs actually help you save. Green Ocean runs mono-hull ships from the 1980s-90s that lack the fuel efficiency of modern catamarans. They compensate with higher passenger loads and lower profit margins, passing savings to travelers. GO1’s maximum 13-knot speed versus competitors’ 30+ knots also reduces fuel costs significantly.

How much longer does Green Ocean take compared to other ferries?

Add 45 minutes to standard journey times. Port Blair-Havelock takes 2h 15m versus 1h 30m on competitors. The slower speed comes from older engines — GO1 maxes out at 13 knots while GO2 reaches 23 knots, still slower than Makruzz/Nautika’s 30+ knots.

Is the open deck safe during monsoon season?

The open deck closes during heavy rain and rough seas. June-September monsoon means expect closures 30-40% of sailing time. Crew members block access when waves exceed 2 meters. Safety first, photos second. The DJ entertainment and dance floor only operate in good weather conditions.

Which Green Ocean vessel should I choose for Port Blair to Havelock?

GO1’s 6:30 AM departure gives you the open deck experience in calm morning seas with Economy class available. GO2’s 11:45 AM service runs 15 minutes faster if time matters. First-timers should try GO1 for the full experience, but seasickness-prone travelers might prefer GO2’s enclosed design.

Can I get a refund if Green Ocean cancels my trip?

Weather and technical cancellations guarantee 100% refunds processed in 7-10 working days. You can also opt for free rescheduling on the next available departure. Keep your cancelled ticket printout for refund claims. Operator-initiated cancellations include all fees in the refund.

What’s the baggage limit on Green Ocean ferries?

Standard allowance is 20kg per person, not exceeding 3 cubic feet. Luggage goes through X-ray scanning at check-in. Excess baggage costs Rs 10 per kg. One small handbag allowed in cabin. Surfboards and diving equipment need advance permission from the operator.

Do I need to print my Green Ocean ticket or is mobile okay?

Print it. Mobile tickets get rejected at check-in despite what booking sites claim. Hard copies are mandatory according to their policy. The cyber cafe at Haddo Jetty charges Rs 20 per ticket if you forget. Email tickets to yourself as backup.

How early should I reach the jetty for Green Ocean departure?

Arrive 45-60 minutes early for smooth check-in. Counter closes 15 minutes before departure — no exceptions. Peak season means longer queues, so December travelers should arrive 75-90 minutes early. Check-in opens 60 minutes before sailing time.

Is food available onboard Green Ocean ferries?

Basic snacks and beverages sold at the cafeteria. GO1 offers Maggi (Rs 50), chips (Rs 30-50), tea/coffee (Rs 30-40), and bottled water (Rs 20). GO2 has a superior restaurant on the lower deck with better options. Quality varies but fills the gap. Bring your own snacks for better variety.

Can senior citizens and children get discounts on Green Ocean?

No senior citizen discounts currently offered. Children above 2 years pay full fare. Only infants under 2 travel at reduced Rs 105 documentation fee. Group bookings of 10+ might negotiate 5-10% off directly with their Port Blair office. Student groups with valid ID sometimes get additional concessions during off-season.

Ready to experience Andaman’s most budget-friendly ferry with that unique open deck adventure? Book your Green Ocean ferry tickets now with instant confirmation →