Makruzz Ferry Review 2026: Premium, Deluxe & Royal Class Compared
Quick Answer: Makruzz ferry operates three seating classes across its fleet — Premium (Rs 1,250-1,775), Deluxe (Rs 2,180-2,300), and Royal (Rs 2,940-3,150). Premium offers basic AC seating on the lower deck, Deluxe provides upper deck views with better seating, while Royal provides a private 8-seat cabin with complimentary food. Not all vessels offer all classes — Makruzz Pearl only has Premium seating. For a full overview of all operators, check our Andaman ferry booking guide.
Makruzz in 3 lines: Andaman's most popular ferry with 13 daily departures and 96% on-time rate. Three classes: Premium (Rs 1,250-1,775), Deluxe (Rs 2,180-2,300), Royal (Rs 2,940-3,150). Book early bird 6 AM departure for lowest fares.
TL;DR / Key Takeaways:
- Premium Class: Budget option, lower deck, Rs 1,250-1,775, no meals included
- Deluxe Class: Mid-range, upper deck with views, better seating, Rs 2,180-2,300
- Royal Class: Luxury private cabin, 8 pushback seats, complimentary food, Rs 2,940-3,150
- MV Makruzz Pearl operates Premium class only (no Deluxe/Royal)
- Book 2-3 weeks ahead during peak season (December-February)
Makruzz Ferry Classes Overview: What’s Available in 2026
The Makruzz ferry offers three distinct seating classes — Premium, Deluxe, and Royal — but availability depends on which vessel you’re boarding. As one of Andaman’s premium ferry operators serving 1.5 million passengers since 2009, they’ve positioned themselves between budget carriers like Green Ocean and ultra-premium services.
Here’s what’s running in 2026: MV Makruzz and MV Makruzz Gold both offer all three classes, while MV Makruzz Pearl operates Premium class only. The fleet runs 13 daily departures across Port Blair to Havelock and Havelock to Neil ferry routes with twin-hull catamarans cruising at 30-32 knots.
| Vessel | Premium Seats | Deluxe Seats | Royal Seats | Routes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MV Makruzz | 208 | 64 | 8 | All routes |
| MV Makruzz Gold | 262 | 63 | 8 | All routes |
| MV Makruzz Pearl | 250 | None | None | PB→Neil→Havelock only |
| MV Makruzz Ruby (2026) | 200 | TBA | TBA | TBA |
Why does this matter? If you’re eyeing that Royal class experience, avoid the 9:00 AM departure from Port Blair — that’s Pearl, and she’s Premium only. Gold runs the most spacious Premium section if you’re traveling with a large group.
Makruzz Premium Class Review: Is the Base Option Worth It?
Premium class gets you aircraft-style seating on the lower deck for Rs 1,250-1,775 — perfectly fine for the 90-minute journey if you’re watching your budget. You’ll find 208-262 seats depending on the vessel, arranged in a 2-2 configuration with a center aisle.
What’s included? Full air conditioning (sometimes too cold — bring a light jacket), padded seats with armrests, and access to the onboard cafeteria where you can buy snacks and beverages. The seats don’t recline, but at 90 minutes, that’s not a dealbreaker. Large panoramic tinted windows line both sides, though lower deck means you’re closer to the waterline — less scenic than upper decks.
Is it comfortable enough? For most travelers, absolutely. The seats are similar to budget airline standards — not luxurious, but clean and maintained. Buy your water and snacks at the cafeteria (Rs 50-100 for basics).
Here’s the thing: Premium class on Makruzz beats economy options on other ferries. Green Ocean’s economy might save you Rs 150, but you’ll spend 45 minutes longer at sea. For families or budget-conscious couples, Makruzz Premium offers the best balance.
Premium Class Pricing and Availability
Regular season (16 Sept–14 Dec 2025 & 16 Jan–31 May 2026) runs Rs 1,250 for the 6 AM early bird from Port Blair, jumping to Rs 1,775 for other timings. Peak season (15 Dec 2025–15 Jan 2026) adds Rs 100 per ticket across all timings, making it Rs 1,350-1,875.
Every Makruzz vessel offers Premium class — that’s 720 total Premium seats across the fleet. Add the Rs 50 Passenger Service Fee plus 18% GST, and your final price lands between Rs 1,534-2,153 depending on timing and season.
Makruzz booking tip: The 6 AM early bird departure offers the best value for Premium class and rarely sells out, even during peak season.
Fuel Surcharge (March 2026): A temporary fuel surcharge of Rs 300 per person per trip applies on all Makruzz ferries due to the Iran conflict driving up marine diesel costs. This applies across all classes.
Makruzz Deluxe Class: Upper Deck Experience with Meals
Deluxe class puts you on the upper deck with panoramic windows and better seating for Rs 2,180-2,300. With just 63-64 seats compared to 200+ in Premium, it’s noticeably less crowded and more peaceful.
The upper deck advantage is real. You’re above the waterline with better views, and many travelers report less seasickness up here. The seats themselves are wider with more legroom than Premium — a noticeable upgrade in comfort for the 90-minute journey.
Important note: Deluxe class doesn’t include complimentary meals. That’s a common misconception. Meals are only served in Royal class. Deluxe passengers can purchase food from the onboard cafeteria just like Premium travelers — and the cafeteria is worth visiting, especially on Makruzz Gold where the catering is handled by Taj.
For couples or anyone who appreciates a bit more comfort, Deluxe class hits the sweet spot. You’re paying roughly Rs 500-900 more than Premium for better seats, superior upper deck views, and a calmer environment with fewer passengers around you.
One tip: Book port-side seats (left side when facing forward) on the Port Blair to Havelock route. You’ll get views of the smaller islands along the way.
What’s Actually Included in Deluxe Class
Deluxe passengers get priority boarding after Royal class, dedicated upper deck restrooms (cleaner, less crowded), and better-positioned entertainment screens — each vessel features 42" TVs in main cabins and 19" TVs on upper decks. No meals are included in Deluxe — that’s Royal class only. But the upper deck location and fewer fellow passengers make it a calmer experience overall.
Makruzz Royal Class: Premium Cabin Experience Worth Rs 3,150?
Royal class books you into an exclusive 8-seat private cabin with pushback recliners and complimentary food for Rs 2,940-3,150. For a 90-minute journey, you’re essentially paying Rs 33-35 per minute for luxury — but hear me out on when it makes sense.
The cabin sits at the vessel’s prime location — forward upper deck with the best stability and views. Those eight pushback seats? They’re leather recliners with leg rests, more like first-class airline seats than ferry furniture. The cabin stays quieter since you’re isolated from the main passenger areas.
Royal class includes a complimentary sandwich and a drink — you choose between hot or cold beverages. It’s not gourmet dining, but the food is good and the service is attentive. This is the only Makruzz class where any food is included in the ticket price.
Here’s my take: Royal class makes sense for special occasions (anniversaries, proposals), elderly travelers who need maximum comfort, or business travelers who can expense it. For a regular holiday? That extra Rs 760-850 over Deluxe buys you exclusivity more than proportional comfort gains.
The private cabin does offer one hidden advantage — privacy for families with infants. If you’re traveling with a baby and worried about disturbing others, Royal class gives you space to manage without stress.
Which Makruzz Vessel Should You Choose: Gold, Pearl, or Standard?
MV Makruzz Gold takes the crown as the most spacious vessel with 333 total seats — 262 Premium, 63 Deluxe, and 8 Royal. Built in 1996 at Singapore’s Damen Shipyard, she’s older but meticulously maintained — you wouldn’t guess the age once inside.
MV Makruzz Pearl is Premium class only with 250 seats in a single-deck configuration. Built in 1998 at Australia’s Austal Shipyard, Pearl feels more like an aircraft inside. She exclusively runs the Port Blair→Neil→Havelock circuit, not the direct routes. Pearl and Gold are both newer additions and feel well-maintained inside.
The original MV Makruzz (built 2002 at Damen Shipyard Singapore) is the oldest in the fleet — it shows a bit more age than Gold or Pearl, but the maintenance is solid and everything works as it should. She offers the most balanced configuration — 280 total seats with all three classes available, handling the 6:00 AM early bird from Port Blair.
Coming in 2026: MV Makruzz Ruby — a brand-new 200-seat vessel that will further expand the fleet’s capacity. This is a significant addition that should improve schedule flexibility and reduce peak-season availability issues.
All vessels cruise at 30-32 knots, delivering that consistent 90-minute Port Blair-Havelock timing. Avoid Pearl if you need direct Port Blair-Havelock service. She always stops at Neil Island first, adding 30-45 minutes.
What Is the Onboard Experience on Makruzz?
All Makruzz vessels feature onboard cafeterias selling hot and cold beverages, snacks, and light meals. The food quality is a step above what you’ll find on other Andaman ferries — particularly on Makruzz Gold, where the catering is handled by Taj. That’s not marketing fluff; you can genuinely taste the difference. Premium and Deluxe passengers buy from the cafeteria, while Royal class passengers receive a complimentary sandwich and drink at their seats.
Entertainment systems run throughout the journey — overhead screens play Bollywood movies, though most passengers spend the 90 minutes enjoying sea views or napping. CCTV monitoring and trained crew ensure passenger safety across all decks.
How Do You Book and Check In for Makruzz?
Makruzz booking requires planning ahead — tickets open 60 days in advance and the good slots sell fast.
Booking checklist: Select your route and date, pick from available vessels and timings (remember Pearl is Premium only), choose your class, pay online, and receive instant confirmation via SMS and email. The whole process takes under 5 minutes.
Cancellation policy remains flexible until 24 hours before departure. Cancel 48+ hours early and you’ll pay just Rs 100 plus taxes per ticket. Between 24-48 hours, you get 50% back. Inside 24 hours? No refund, but you can reschedule once for Rs 150 per person plus fare difference.
Reconfirmation is required one day before travel by calling 03192-236677 or +91-8001240006.
Check-in requirements: arrive at Haddo Jetty at least 60 minutes before departure with hard copy tickets and valid photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, driving license). The counter closes 15 minutes before departure, and boarding closes 10 minutes before.
Having boarded multiple times across all Andaman operators, Makruzz’s check-in process is the most organized at Haddo Jetty. They run a bigger operation with more ground staff than operators like ITT Majestic, and the extra hands make a difference — especially during peak season morning rushes. If you’re comparing private ferries with the government ferry service, Makruzz’s check-in is significantly smoother.
How Safe and Reliable Is Makruzz Ferry?
Makruzz maintains a 96% on-time performance rate — the highest among Andaman ferry operators. Their twin-hull catamaran design by Incat Crowther provides superior stability compared to traditional mono-hull ferries, which means fewer weather-related cancellations and a smoother ride.
All vessels undergo regular maintenance inspections and carry full safety equipment including life rafts, life jackets for all passengers, and modern navigation systems. English-speaking trained crew members are available on every voyage.
Makruzz vs Competitors: How Does It Stack Up in 2026?
Makruzz ferry strikes the middle ground perfectly — more reliable than budget operators, less expensive than ultra-premium services.
| Operator | Premium/Economy | Mid-Range | Luxury | Journey Time | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Ocean | Rs 1,100 | Rs 1,200 | Rs 1,500 | 2h 15m | Good |
| Makruzz | Rs 1,250-1,775 | Rs 2,180-2,300 | Rs 2,940-3,150 | 1h 30m | Very Good |
| Nautika | Rs 1,250-1,800 | Rs 1,500-2,150 | Rs 3,300-3,400* | 1h 30m | Very Good |
| ITT Majestic | Rs 1,564-1,650 | Rs 2,000 | Not available | 1h 30m | Good |
*Nautika’s Rs 3,300-3,400 is for Business Class on Nautika Pro, not directly comparable to Royal
Choose Makruzz when you want reliability without breaking the bank. Skip them if you absolutely need the cheapest option (go Green Ocean) or require cutting-edge amenities like Wi-Fi (pick Nautika Pro).
Makruzz Class Selection Guide: Which One is Right for You?
Choose Premium if you’re backpacking, traveling solo, or just need reliable transport without frills. At Rs 1,250-1,775, it’s the sensible choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Deluxe makes sense for couples and anyone prone to seasickness who benefits from upper deck placement. The Rs 500-900 premium over base Premium buys you better seats, fewer passengers around you, and superior views.
Royal class fits special occasions, business travelers, elderly passengers needing maximum comfort, and families with infants who value privacy.
For first-time visitors unsure about the Makruzz premium vs royal debate: Deluxe class offers a comfortable middle ground — upper deck views and better seats without the Royal price tag. But if the included food and private cabin matter, Royal is the only class that delivers those.
Book Your Perfect Makruzz Experience →
What Real Travelers Say About Makruzz
Based on analysis of 273 verified Google reviews, Makruzz consistently earns praise for punctuality, comfortable seating, and professional onboard service.
“We booked our trips online in advance for PB to Havelock, Havelock to Neil and back from Neil to PB. We enjoyed all 3 journeys. They are very professional and punctual. The ferries move exactly on time. The vessels are A/C, clean and well maintained.” — Verified Google Review, 2025
“The booking process was smooth and the check-in was incredibly easy using the online link. The ferry arrived promptly and reached the destination on time. The transit was also smooth, with no major hiccups.” — Verified Google Review, February 2026
“We booked a 6 AM ferry from Portblair to Havelock. It started sharp 6 in the morning and reached 7:30 at Havelock. They are very punctual. While returning we took the 4 PM ferry. We were on the upper deck and it was a life time experience.” — Verified Google Review, 2025
“Its one of the best service: Makruzz ships are very fast and without your understanding you will reach your destination. Sea sickness probability is too low. No need to stand in queue for long, no tension, no agent required.” — Verified Google Review
Honest caveats from reviews: Some passengers report that the AC can run uncomfortably cold inside the sealed cabin — carry a light jacket. During peak season (December-January), occasional delays of 30-40 minutes have been reported, though Makruzz remains the most punctual operator overall. A few reviewers also note that panoramic windows can appear foggy or tinted, limiting sea views from the lower deck.
FAQ Section: Common Makruzz Questions
Is food included in Makruzz Premium or Deluxe class?
No, neither Premium nor Deluxe class includes meals. You’ll need to purchase food and drinks from the onboard cafeteria — expect to pay Rs 50-100 for basics, and the quality’s decent (Makruzz Gold uses Taj Catering). Only Royal class includes a complimentary sandwich and drink.
Can I upgrade my Makruzz class after booking?
Upgrades depend on availability and must be requested at least 24 hours before departure. You’ll pay the fare difference plus a Rs 150 change fee per person.
Which Makruzz vessel has Royal class available?
MV Makruzz and MV Makruzz Gold both offer Royal class with 8 seats each. MV Makruzz Pearl operates Premium class only.
How far in advance should I book Makruzz tickets?
For October-May travel, book 2-3 weeks ahead. December-February requires 3-4 weeks advance booking as Royal and Deluxe sell out first.
What happens if my Makruzz ferry gets cancelled due to weather?
Makruzz offers full refunds or free rescheduling for weather cancellations. You’ll receive SMS and email notifications, typically 12-24 hours in advance.
Is Makruzz better than Green Ocean ferries?
“Better” depends on priorities. Makruzz costs Rs 150-2,050 more but saves 45 minutes journey time and offers superior comfort. For reliability and comfort, Makruzz wins. For rock-bottom prices, Green Ocean takes it.
Can I get seasick on Makruzz ferries?
About 15-20% of passengers experience some motion discomfort. Take medication 30 minutes before boarding, choose middle-ship seats, and travel on morning departures when seas are typically calmer.
What’s the baggage limit on Makruzz ferries?
25 kg per person checked baggage is free. Carry one small handbag into the cabin.
Is Makruzz Royal class worth the extra cost for a 90-minute journey?
For most travelers, Deluxe class offers the best value. Royal class makes sense for special occasions, elderly travelers, or when you want guaranteed peace and privacy.