Havelock to Neil Island Ferry: Complete Booking Guide 2026

Havelock to Neil Island Ferry: Complete Booking Guide (2026)

The Havelock to Neil Island ferry journey covers 18 km in 45-90 minutes across four operators. Daily departures run 9:00 AM-3:30 PM with prices from Rs 1,350 (Green Ocean) to Rs 3,200 (Nautika Pro Business). Book 2-3 weeks ahead during peak season for guaranteed morning slots with calmer seas. If you haven’t made it to Havelock yet, start with our Port Blair to Havelock ferry guide, or see the full Andaman ferry booking guide for all routes.

Fast Facts:

• Distance: 18 km by sea
• Journey Time: 45-90 minutes depending on operator
• Daily Departures: 5-6 ferries between all operators
• Best Times: 9:00-10:30 AM for smooth sailing
• Peak Season: December-February (book early)

All prices exclude Rs 50 Port Service Fee + 18% GST

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Which Ferry Operators Run Havelock to Neil Island Route?

Four major private ferry companies operate the Havelock to Neil Island ferry route daily, each offering distinct advantages for different traveler preferences.

Nautika operates two premium vessels on this route. The flagship Nautika catamaran (323 passengers) provides reliable 60-minute crossings, while the newer Nautika Pro (268 passengers) completes the journey in just 45 minutes — the fastest option available. Nautika Pro features India’s first ferry business class with 4-seat private cabins, onboard Wi-Fi, and a barista coffee service that’s genuinely good — expect properly frothed cappuccinos, not the usual ferry disappointment. The biggest differentiator across both Nautika vessels is service culture: staff are consistently more professional and courteous than other operators.

Makruzz dominates this route with three daily departures using MV Makruzz (280 passengers) and MV Makruzz Gold (333 passengers). With over 1.5 million passengers served since 2009, Makruzz runs the most organized boarding operation at the jetty — more ground staff than any other operator, which makes a real difference during peak season morning rushes. Their Royal class includes a complimentary sandwich and drink, while the Gold vessel’s cafeteria is catered by Taj — genuinely better quality food than other vessels.

ITT Majestic operates a single 200-passenger catamaran on one circular trip daily as part of their Port Blair→Havelock→Neil→Port Blair route. Built by Australian naval architects, the vessel features massive floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows running the entire length — passengers with window seats tend to have phones pressed against the glass within the first ten minutes. Excellent value for mid-range budgets, though the lean ground crew at check-in can feel a bit rushed and impatient compared to Makruzz’s larger operation.

Green Ocean alternates between two vessels: Green Ocean 1 (316 passengers with unique open deck) and Green Ocean 2 (198 passengers, fully enclosed). GO1 takes 75-90 minutes due to its older design but offers the only open-air ferry experience in Andaman — no other operator, not Nautika, not Makruzz, not ITT Majestic, offers open deck access. The open deck is ideal for photography, and on many trips it transforms into a full-on party vibe with music — a unique experience you won’t get elsewhere. GO1 does show its age, but the trade-off between modern polish and that open deck experience is worth it for many travelers.

For full details about each operator’s vessels and services, check our Makruzz ferry guide and Nautika operator review. You can also compare with the government ferry comparison if you’re weighing all your options.

Peak Season Schedule (October to May)

Peak season brings maximum reliability with 5-6 daily departures and less than 2% cancellation rates. Makruzz operates three departures: MV Makruzz Gold at 10:00 AM, MV Makruzz at 11:30 AM, and an additional 2:30 PM service. Nautika runs twice daily at 9:25 AM (Nautika Pro) and 3:00 PM (regular Nautika).

ITT Majestic maintains its single daily departure at 10:30 AM, while Green Ocean offers morning options between 9:15-9:45 AM depending on vessel rotation. Weather conditions remain optimal throughout peak season, with calm seas and minimal delays.

Monsoon Schedule (June to September)

Monsoon operations see reduced frequency as afternoon departures face higher cancellation risk due to rough seas. Green Ocean typically suspends their slower GO1 vessel during heavy monsoon months, while other operators merge services when passenger numbers drop.

Morning departures between 9:00-11:00 AM remain most reliable during monsoon season. Plan flexible itineraries and consider our complete ferry schedule for real-time updates.

Havelock to Neil Island Ferry Prices (2026 Season)

Neil island ferry ticket prices vary significantly by operator and class, starting at Rs 1,350 for basic Economy up to Rs 3,200 for premium Business Class. All fares include mandatory Rs 50 Port Service Fee with 18% GST calculated separately on base fare.

Regular Season Fares (September-May 15)

Budget Options:

• Green Ocean 1: Economy Rs 1,350, Premium Rs 1,700, Royal Rs 1,900
• ITT Majestic: Silver Rs 1,600, Majesty Rs 1,800

Premium Options:

• Makruzz: Premium Rs 1,800, Deluxe Rs 2,100, Royal Rs 2,900
• Nautika Pro: Luxury Rs 1,700, Royal Rs 1,900, Business Rs 3,200

Peak Season Surcharge (December 15 - January 15)

All operators add Rs 100 per ticket during Christmas-New Year peak season. Makruzz fares become Premium Rs 1,900, Deluxe Rs 2,200, Royal Rs 3,000. This surcharge applies to every route sector.

Child/Infant Policies:

• Children above 2 years: Full-fare tickets (all operators)
• Infants under 1: Free on Makruzz/ITT, Rs 155 on Nautika
• Green Ocean: Free travel for infants under 2 years

Prices exclude Rs 50 PSF and 18% GST. Peak season adds Rs 100. A temporary fuel surcharge of Rs 300 per person per trip also applies (March 2026) due to the Iran conflict driving up marine diesel costs.

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How Long Does the Havelock to Neil Ferry Take?

The Havelock to Neil ferry journey ranges from 45-90 minutes depending on your operator choice and weather conditions. Understanding these timing differences helps you plan connecting activities and accommodations effectively.

Nautika Pro holds the speed record at just 45 minutes thanks to their high-speed catamaran cruising at 26 knots. This premium option puts you on Neil Island’s beaches by 10:15 AM from their 9:25 AM departure — perfect timing for full-day exploration.

Makruzz and ITT Majestic both complete the crossing in approximately 60 minutes at cruising speeds of 22-28 knots. This represents the sweet spot between speed and comfort for most travelers.

Green Ocean takes considerably longer at 75-90 minutes due to GO1’s older design and 13-knot cruising speed. However, those extra 30 minutes become enjoyable rather than tedious thanks to the open deck experience — you can spot dolphins, feel ocean breezes, and capture panoramic photography impossible on enclosed ferries.

Weather Impact on Journey Times

Morning seas between 9:00-10:30 AM typically remain calm, allowing operators to maintain optimal speeds. Afternoon crossings after 2:00 PM often encounter choppier conditions, potentially adding 10-15 minutes to any journey.

During monsoon months (June-September), all operators reduce speed for passenger comfort, extending journey times by up to 20%. March through May sees particularly rough afternoon conditions when winds pick up around 2:00 PM.

Pro Tip: Book morning departures for the smoothest ride and shortest journey times. The Rs 100-200 price difference for morning slots pays dividends in comfort and reduced seasickness risk.

How to Book Your Havelock to Neil Ferry Tickets

Booking Havelock to Neil island ferry tickets online takes under 5 minutes and guarantees your preferred departure time during peak season when walk-up availability becomes scarce.

Online Booking Process (Recommended)

Step 1: Select your travel date and preferred operator on our Havelock to Neil booking page. The system displays real-time availability across all four operators with instant price comparisons.

Step 2: Enter passenger details — full names matching government ID, age, gender, and contact number for SMS confirmations. Group bookings of 10+ passengers automatically receive 5% discounts at checkout.

Step 3: Complete payment using cards, UPI, net banking, or digital wallets. Your booking confirmation arrives via SMS and email within minutes, containing PNR and QR code for check-in.

Important: All operators except Green Ocean accept mobile tickets. Green Ocean still requires printed hard copies, so download and print your confirmation. Save booking details offline as backup — Havelock jetty has unreliable network coverage.

Counter Tickets at Havelock Jetty

Limited counter tickets remain available at Havelock jetty, but we strongly discourage this option. Jetty counters charge Rs 100-200 above online prices and frequently sell out by 8:00 AM during peak months.

The ticket counter opens just 90 minutes before each departure, creating long queues and unnecessary stress. During December-February peak season, walk-in passengers often find all departures sold out. If you must buy at the jetty, arrive by 7:30 AM for morning ferries.

Last-Minute Bookings: Online tickets remain available until 2 hours before departure, though popular 9:00-10:30 AM slots often sell out the previous evening during peak season.

Which is the Best Ferry from Havelock to Neil Island?

Choosing the optimal Neil island ferry depends on balancing your priorities of speed, comfort, budget, and unique experiences. Each operator excels in different areas.

For Speed & Premium Comfort: Nautika Pro

Nautika Pro stands out for travelers seeking the fastest journey (45 minutes) combined with luxury amenities. Their India’s first ferry business class features private 4-seat cabins, onboard Wi-Fi, and barista coffee that’s genuinely good — properly frothed cappuccinos, not the usual ferry disappointment. The Pro is slightly nicer than the original Nautika in the details, though not a dramatic leap. What really sets Nautika apart across both vessels is service culture — staff are consistently more professional and courteous than other operators.

For Reliability & Flexibility: Makruzz

Makruzz remains the most popular choice, balancing proven reliability with reasonable pricing. Their 60-minute crossing time works perfectly, and with three daily departures (10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM), you’ll find excellent schedule flexibility. Royal class includes a complimentary sandwich and drink — the only class on any operator with included food. For Deluxe and Premium passengers, the Makruzz Gold vessel’s Taj-catered cafeteria is a cut above what you’ll find on other ferries.

For Mid-Range Value: ITT Majestic

ITT Majestic offers solid mid-range value with their single daily departure at 10:30 AM as part of their circular route. If your schedule aligns with their timing, you’ll save Rs 200-300 compared to Makruzz while enjoying panoramic windows running the vessel’s full length for superior sea views.

For Budget & Unique Experience: Green Ocean

Green Ocean suits budget-conscious travelers who appreciate unique experiences over speed. Their GO1 vessel takes 75-90 minutes but offers something no other ferry provides — an open deck where you can enjoy sea breezes, spot dolphins, and capture unobstructed photography.

At Rs 1,350 for Economy class, it’s the cheapest option by Rs 250-450. Here’s something counterintuitive: Green Ocean is actually better for seasickness than the fast catamarans. The much slower cruising speed makes for a smoother, more comfortable ride with less jolting and pitching — combine that with fresh air on the open deck, and seasickness-prone travelers often have a far better experience than on high-speed ferries racing across at 30 knots. Many travelers find the extra 30 minutes enjoyable rather than tedious.

Recommendation: First-time visitors should try Makruzz for reliability. Speed-conscious travelers choose Nautika Pro. Budget travelers love Green Ocean’s open deck experience.

Compare All Options & Book Your Preferred Ferry →

Check-in Process at Havelock Jetty

Arriving prepared for check-in at Havelock jetty ensures smooth boarding without last-minute stress. The process requires specific timing and documentation that cannot be waived.

Arrival & Check-in Timing

Arrive 60-90 minutes before departure — this timing is non-negotiable during December-February peak season when queues stretch long. The jetty sits 10 minutes by auto-rickshaw from most Havelock hotels (Rs 150-200 standard rate).

Check-in counters operate inside the terminal building, clearly marked by operator name. Present your printed ticket (hard copy required) along with government-issued photo ID. Staff verify details, process luggage tags, and issue boarding passes.

Security & Boarding Procedure

Security screening follows check-in: X-ray for bags and metal detector walk-through. After security, wait in the departure hall where basic snacks and water are available for purchase at reasonable rates.

Critical Timing:

• Check-in counters close 15-30 minutes before departure (zero exceptions)
• Boarding gates close 10-15 minutes before sailing
• Missing either cutoff means forfeiting your ticket completely

Boarding announcements begin 20 minutes before departure. Stay near the departure hall — Havelock jetty has poor mobile network coverage, and you might miss critical announcements.

Required Documentation

Indian Citizens: Valid government photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, driving license, voter ID) Foreign Nationals: Valid passport — no additional permits needed for Neil Island Children: Birth certificates if no photo ID available

Pro Tip: Download Andaman & Nicobar Tourism’s official ferry app for real-time departure updates and jetty maps before arriving.

Ferry Luggage Rules & Prohibited Items

Understanding luggage allowances prevents check-in delays and additional charges that can significantly impact your travel budget.

Baggage Allowance by Operator

Standard Allowances:

• Makruzz: 25 kg per passenger (most generous)
• Nautika & Green Ocean: 15-20 kg per passenger
• ITT Majestic: 20 kg per passenger

Excess Baggage: Rs 100 per kg on most operators. One small handbag or backpack can accompany you to your seat without counting toward the weight limit.

Special Equipment & Oversized Items

Dive Gear: Standard dive equipment in regular bags counts toward weight allowance without issues. However, compressed air tanks require special permission — contact operators while booking as cylinders have transport restrictions.

Large Items: Surfboards, bicycles, and oversized sports equipment need advance notification. Some vessels lack adequate storage, particularly Green Ocean 1’s older design.

Prohibited Items

Ferry security mirrors aviation rules with additional maritime-specific restrictions:

Completely Banned:

• Knives, scissors, sharp objects in carry-on
• Single-use plastics (Green Ocean specifically enforces this)
• Alcohol consumption onboard (sealed bottles allowed in checked luggage, maximum two)
• Smoking anywhere on vessel
• Pets (except service animals with documentation)

Restricted Items:

• Lighters (one per person in carry-on only)
• Power banks over 20,000 mAh
• Medications require prescription labels

Smart Packing Tips

Keep in Carry-On: Medications, motion sickness tablets, valuables, light layer (ferry AC is cool but manageable — you won’t be freezing), reusable water bottle, snacks, power bank, cash for cafeteria purchases.

Checked Luggage: Your checked baggage goes into the cargo hold with no access during sailing. Pack accordingly for the 45-90 minute journey.

For detailed packing advice for your complete Andaman trip, see our Andaman travel guide.

Best Time to Travel: Morning vs Afternoon Ferries

Choosing optimal departure timing significantly impacts your journey comfort, onward connections, and overall Neil Island experience.

Morning Departures (9:00-11:00 AM) — Recommended

Morning ferries offer superior advantages:

• Calmer seas: Minimal wave action and wind before 11:00 AM
• Full day ahead: Arrive Neil Island by 10:30 AM for complete beach exploration
• Better snorkeling: Crystal-clear morning visibility at Bharatpur Beach
• Cooler temperatures: Comfortable boarding and travel conditions

The 9:25 AM Nautika Pro departure represents the sweet spot — you reach Neil’s beaches by 10:30 AM with optimal snorkeling conditions and full day remaining for the famous 3-Point Tour (Bharatpur, Laxmanpur, Sitapur beaches).

Afternoon Departures (2:00-3:30 PM)

Afternoon ferries work better if:

• Late checkout from Havelock hotels (most check out by 11:00 AM)
• Leisurely morning at Radhanagar Beach before departure
• Budget constraints (afternoon slots sometimes offer last-minute discounts)

Trade-offs: Afternoon seas get progressively rougher, especially after 2:00 PM when winds strengthen. March through May sees particularly choppy afternoon conditions.

Seasonal Considerations

October-February: Excellent conditions throughout the day. November offers the absolute best balance — great weather, moderate crowds, no Rs 100 peak season surcharge.

March-May: Morning departures become a must as afternoon winds create rough conditions.

June-September: Morning ferries are critical — afternoon services face higher cancellation risk during monsoon season.

Seasickness Prevention: If you’re prone to motion sickness, take Avomine/Dimenhydrinate 30 minutes before boarding and strongly consider morning timing. The Rs 100-200 price difference pays for itself in comfort.

Booking Patterns: Morning ferries sell out 2-3 weeks ahead during December-February peak season, while afternoon slots often have last-minute availability.

What to Expect at Neil Island Jetty Upon Arrival

Neil Island’s jetty (officially Bharatpur Jetty) offers a refreshingly simple arrival experience compared to the busier terminals at Port Blair and Havelock.

Disembarkation & Luggage Collection

You’ll disembark directly onto the main pier with the small terminal building just a 2-minute walk away. Luggage collection happens right on the platform — no complicated carousel systems or waiting areas. This quick process gets you to your accommodation within 15 minutes of docking.

Transportation from Neil Jetty

Auto-rickshaws and taxis wait immediately outside the terminal exit with fixed-rate boards displaying current fares:

• Bharatpur Beach: Rs 150-200 (1 km, most accommodations)
• Laxmanpur Beach: Rs 200-250 (2 km)
• Sitapur Beach: Rs 300-400 (5 km, farthest point)

Most Neil Island hotels operate within 3 km of the jetty. Pre-arranged hotel pickups meet guests at the terminal exit — confirm this service when booking accommodation.

Basic Facilities & Services

The jetty area has basic amenities: small waiting room with seating, public toilets, and one shop selling water, snacks, and basic supplies. Don’t expect ATMs or restaurants at the jetty itself.

Important: The nearest ATM operates at Neil Island market, approximately 1 km from the jetty. Stock up on cash in Havelock if you need substantial amounts, as ATM reliability on Neil varies.

About Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Neil Island earned its nickname as the “vegetable bowl of Andaman” due to abundant agriculture across its 13.7 sq km area. Officially renamed Shaheed Dweep in 2018, it maintains a more laid-back, less commercialized atmosphere than Havelock — perfect for relaxing 1-2 day visits.

The island’s compact size makes it ideal for scooter exploration (Rs 400-500/day rental) or the popular 3-Point auto tour covering all major beaches. For complete island information, check our detailed Andaman ferry booking guide.

Return Ferry Options: Neil Island Connections

Neil Island offers excellent return connectivity with multiple daily departures to both Port Blair and Havelock, though route availability varies significantly by direction.

Neil to Port Blair (Direct Service)

All operators run direct Neil to Port Blair services — unlike the opposite direction where you must route via Havelock. Daily departures include:

• Nautika: 10:35 AM (Nautika Pro, 75 min) and 4:15 PM (regular Nautika, 90 min)
• Makruzz: 11:20 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM (75-90 min depending on vessel)
• ITT Majestic: 11:30-11:45 AM (75 min)
• Green Ocean: 11:00 AM and 11:15 AM (90 min)

Flight Connections: The 9:30 AM Nautika reaches Port Blair by 11:00 AM, providing comfortable buffer time for afternoon flights. Allow 4-5 hours minimum between ferry arrival and flight departure.

Neil to Havelock (Limited Options)

Return options to Havelock island remain limited with typically 1-2 daily departures. Morning services usually run 10:30-11:30 AM, while afternoon options operate 2:00-3:00 PM.

This schedule works well for one-night Neil stays — arrive on the morning ferry, explore the island, then catch an afternoon return to Havelock for continued exploration or onward Port Blair connections.

Booking Return Tickets

Book return tickets simultaneously with your outbound journey for guaranteed seats and easier planning. Our round-trip booking system offers 5% discounts on combined tickets.

Flexible Cancellation: Changes allowed up to 48 hours before departure for Rs 250 per person. 24-48 hour changes incur 50% charges. Within 24 hours, no cancellation permitted, and no-shows forfeit 100% ticket cost.

Many travelers use Neil as a strategic stepping stone to Port Blair for departure flights, taking advantage of the direct ferry connections unavailable from other directions.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Havelock to Neil Ferry

How many ferries run daily from Havelock to Neil Island?

During peak season (October-May), 5-6 ferries operate daily between Havelock and Neil Island across all operators. Morning departures run between 9:00-11:30 AM, with afternoon options at 2:30-3:30 PM. Monsoon season (June-September) sees reduced frequency with 3-4 daily services, primarily concentrated in morning slots when sea conditions remain more stable.

What is the cheapest ferry from Havelock to Neil Island?

Green Ocean 1’s Economy class at Rs 1,350 (+Rs 50 PSF) represents the most affordable option. However, it’s also the slowest at 75-90 minutes. For better value, consider ITT Majestic’s Silver class at Rs 1,600 — just Rs 250 more for a 30-minute faster journey and panoramic viewing windows spanning the vessel’s full length.

Can I cancel my Havelock to Neil ferry ticket?

Yes, but cancellation charges apply based on timing. Cancel 48+ hours before departure for Rs 250 per person fee. 24-48 hours incurs 50% charges of total fare. Within 24 hours, no refund is provided. Rescheduled tickets cost Rs 150 per person plus fare difference but cannot be cancelled again. Weather-related operator cancellations receive full refunds processed within 7-10 working days.

What happens if my ferry gets cancelled due to bad weather?

Operators provide two options: full refund including all fees, or free rescheduling to the next available departure. Online payment refunds process within 7-10 working days to original payment method. If you’re on a tight schedule, most operators attempt accommodating passengers on other companies’ ferries when space permits during weather disruptions.

Is food available on the Havelock to Neil ferry?

All ferries maintain basic cafeterias selling snacks (Rs 50-100), biscuits, tea, coffee, and soft drinks (Rs 20-50). Only Makruzz Royal class includes complimentary food — a sandwich and drink (hot or cold). Deluxe and Premium passengers buy from the cafeteria like everyone else, though the Makruzz Gold vessel’s Taj-catered cafeteria offers noticeably better quality. Nautika Pro offers genuine barista coffee — properly frothed cappuccinos, not typical ferry fare. Green Ocean 1’s open deck cafeteria proves popular for fresh air dining during the 75-90 minute journey.

Can I take scuba diving equipment on the ferry?

Yes, standard dive bags count toward regular luggage allowance (15-25 kg depending on operator). However, compressed air tanks require special permission — contact operators in advance as pressurized cylinders have safety restrictions. Most experienced divers leave tanks with their dive operators and carry only personal gear (BCDs, regulators, wetsuits) as standard luggage.

Which ferry seats are best to avoid seasickness?

Book lower deck seats in middle sections where vessel movement remains minimal. Avoid upper deck Royal/Deluxe classes if prone to seasickness — they experience amplified motion. Window seats help by providing horizon views for motion reference. Counterintuitively, Green Ocean’s slower speed actually makes for a smoother ride than high-speed catamarans — less jolting and pitching at 13 knots vs 30 knots. Combine that with GO1’s open deck for fresh air, and seasickness-prone travelers often do better on Green Ocean than on the faster ferries.

How early should I book ferry tickets during peak season?

Book 2-3 weeks ahead for December-February travel as morning ferries and weekends sell out first. November represents the sweet spot — excellent weather, moderate crowds, and no Rs 100 peak season surcharge. During regular season (September-May), 3-5 days advance booking suffices for most departures, though popular morning slots may sell faster.

Are there direct ferries from Neil Island back to Port Blair?

Yes, all operators run direct Neil to Port Blair services unlike the opposite direction requiring Havelock routing. Nautika offers 3 daily departures, Makruzz provides multiple afternoon options, and ITT Majestic runs reliable morning service. Journey times range 75-120 minutes depending on operator and weather conditions. No need to return via Havelock unless you prefer that specific routing.

What documents do I need for the Havelock to Neil ferry?

Carry your printed booking confirmation (hard copy required by all operators) and government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, driver’s license, or voter ID card). Foreign nationals need valid passports — no additional permits required for Neil Island visits. Children require birth certificates if they lack photo identification. Name on booking must match ID exactly — operators don’t accommodate name discrepancies or spelling variations.

Last updated: March 2026. Ferry schedules and prices subject to change based on seasonal demand and weather conditions. For real-time availability and booking, visit BookYourFerry.com — India’s leading Andaman ferry booking platform serving 50,000+ travelers annually.

External Sources:

• Andaman & Nicobar Tourism Official Portal - Official government tourism information
• Directorate of Shipping Services - Government ferry schedules and regulations
• Andaman & Nicobar Administration - Official administrative information and travel guidelines