Best Andaman cruise from Kolkata

If you have a cool, refreshing holiday in mind, then the Andaman Islands are a paradise in waiting. With blue skies, coral reefs, and world-class beaches laden with coconut trees, this place takes you away from the daily grind with zero traffic rush. You might instead find swimming elephants, ferries and fishing vessels that add to the natural charm of this wonderful destination.

ruising to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is one of the most unique ways to experience India’s pristine island destination. Whether it’s a long sea voyage from mainland India or scenic island-hopping cruises within the archipelago, cruises in Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a slow, immersive, and memorable travel experience. From government passenger ships crossing the Bay of Bengal to modern high-speed ferries connecting tropical islands, Andaman cruises cater to adventure seekers, leisure travelers, honeymooners, and luxury enthusiasts alike.

For travellers from eastern India, taking a cruise to Andaman from Kolkata is an especially appealing option. As one of the oldest and most scenic sea routes to the islands, the Kolkata–Port Blair cruise offers a rare opportunity to experience the vastness of the Bay of Bengal while enjoying a relaxed, unhurried journey. It is ideal for those who prefer a budget-friendly alternative to flying, enjoy long sea voyages, or simply want their Andaman holiday to begin as an adventure in itself. With multiple government passenger ships operating on this route, a cruise from Kolkata adds both nostalgia and excitement to the journey.

This guide covers everything you need to know about cruises to Andaman, local island cruises, routes, prices, itineraries, and booking tips.

You might also like: Lakshadweep Family Tour Package: Best Island Holidays For Families And Couples – Flying Squirrel Holidays

A cruise to Andaman, how it’s different

The majestic Andaman Islands were once inhabited by The Great Andamanese tribe, who are now threatened with extinction. The area is filled with lush greenery, frequented by adventure-seeking tourists.

There are two ways to travel from Kolkata to Port Blair: The usual route is to take flights to Veer Savarkar Airport. The other option is a more relaxing journey, by cruise ship. A cruise ship journey is a golden opportunity to savor the scenic beauty of the blue waters.

This article provides information on Andaman cruises. Please note that we do not book cruise tickets. For the latest updates and inquiries, please contact Kolkata Port directly.

For exclusive Andaman tour packages, including flights, premium stays, adventure activities, and seamless travel experiences.

Contact us today to plan your perfect Andaman getaway!

For more details check this: Andaman And Nicobar Tour Packages From Kolkata

Different types of cruises in Andaman

Cruises in Andaman and Nicobar Islands broadly fall into two categories: long-distance cruises from mainland India and local cruises operating between the islands.

Long-distance cruise to Andaman

A cruise to Andaman from mainland India is a multi-day sea journey across the Bay of Bengal. These are government-operated passenger ships that sail from Indian ports such as Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair.

The journey typically takes 3 to 4 days, depending on sea conditions. While these are not luxury cruise liners, they offer cabins, dormitory accommodation, onboard dining, open decks, and a true ocean-voyage experience. This option is ideal for travelers who enjoy slow travel, sea adventures, and budget-friendly alternatives to flying.

Best cruise liners from Kolkata to Andaman

MV Nicobar

MV Harshavardhana

MV Akbar

Here are the details on on-board accommodation & facilities – Kolkata to Andaman

1. MV Nicobar

A passenger ship built in 1991, MV Nicobar has since made many trips to the Andamans from Kolkata and Chennai to the Port Blair.

Room Types & Cost:

MV Nicobar has 300 cottages, 900 decks and can carry 1200 passengers.

The cottages are also categorised as deluxe, first and second class cottages

Cost of the deluxe cottage: about INR 10, 250

Cost of the first-class cottages: about INR 8500

Cost of the second class cottages: about INR 6750

Cost of deck rooms: about INR 2650

2. MV Harshavardhana

Run by the Shipping Corporation of India, MV Harshavardhana is a well-known cruise ship that operates from Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam to Port Blair, Andamans.

Room Types & Cost:

MV Harshavardhana has 153 cottages, 595 bunks or deck rooms and can carry a total of 748 passengers.

The ship provides deluxe accommodation, first and second-course cottages along good bunk or deck rooms.

Cost of deluxe cottages: about INR 10, 250

Cost of first-class cottages: about INR 8500

Cost of second course ‘A’ cottage: about INR 6750

Cost of second course ‘B’ cottage: about INR 5200

Cost of deck rooms: about INR 2650

3. MV Akbar

The prestigious MV Akbar has been the oldest of the lot and this gorgeous vessel has great accommodation facilities too. She was built in 1971 and since then has been ferrying passengers to Port Blair and back.

Cost of deluxe cottages: about INR 10250

Cost of first-class cottages: about INR 7240

Cost of second class cottages: about INR 4400

Cost of bunk rooms: about INR 2300

Things you need to know about Kolkata to Andaman cruise

These ships are operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) and offer different classes of accommodation, including deluxe cabins, first class, second class, and bunk beds. These are not luxury cruises but offer every kind of comfort on board.

The ship travels once every week, i.e. 3 to 4 times every month. It is recommended to make advance reservation for your trip. The time taken to reach Andaman from Kolkata is around 66 hours.

The approximate ship fare from Kolkata to Andaman in 2025 is INR 2630 (bunk class) and INR 10,240 for Deluxe cabins.

Island-hopping cruises within Andaman

Once you reach Port Blair, local cruises and ferries connect travelers to popular islands such as Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). These cruises are short, scenic, and extremely popular among tourists.

Island-hopping cruises in Andaman are comfortable, efficient, and offer stunning views of turquoise waters, making them an essential part of any Andaman itinerary.

Local cruises and ferries in Andaman

For inter-island travel, private operators in Andaman offer modern, high-speed cruise-style ferries that combine comfort, efficiency, and scenic sailing. These cruises are the most preferred mode of transport for tourists moving between popular islands, as they significantly reduce travel time while providing a smooth and enjoyable sea journey.

Leading operators include:

Makruzz Cruise – The most popular high-speed ferry in Andaman, Makruzz is known for its premium seating options, punctual schedules, and excellent onboard facilities. It offers multiple seating classes, including premium and luxury, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort.
Nautika Ferry Andaman – Designed with modern interiors and advanced stabilizers, Nautika ensures smooth sailing even during mildly rough sea conditions. It is especially favored by families and senior travelers.
ITT Majestic Cruise – A comfortable and relatively budget-friendly option, ITT Majestic provides air-conditioned seating and reliable service, making it a good choice for cost-conscious travelers.
Green Ocean Ferry – Widely used and dependable, Green Ocean ferries operate frequently and offer spacious seating, suitable for travelers looking for a balance between affordability and comfort.

These cruises primarily operate on popular routes such as Port Blair to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Port Blair to Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). Travel time typically ranges between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the vessel and sea conditions. Advance booking is strongly recommended during peak season due to high demand.

Luxury and experience-based cruises in Andaman

Although Andaman does not currently feature international-style luxury cruise liners, it offers several experience-based cruises designed for relaxation, sightseeing, and romantic moments. These cruises focus on scenic beauty, gentle sailing, and curated experiences rather than point-to-point transport.

Popular options include:

Scenic cruises in Andaman that sail along the coastline, offering uninterrupted views of turquoise waters and forested islands
Sunset cruises in Port Blair Harbour, ideal for capturing spectacular sunset views over the sea
Romantic and honeymoon cruises, often featuring private seating arrangements and a peaceful ambience
Harbour cruises around Ross Island, Viper Island, and North Bay, combining sightseeing with gentle sea travel

These cruises are particularly popular among couples, honeymooners, and leisure travelers who want to enjoy the serenity of the Andaman Sea without long travel hours. They add a relaxed and memorable dimension to an Andaman holiday, making them perfect for evenings or short excursions.

Best time for an Andaman cruise

The best time to visit Andaman on a cruise is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm, making sailing comfortable and scenic. During these months, cruises operate regularly with minimal disruptions, and visibility is ideal for enjoying ocean views and island landscapes. The period from October to March is especially popular due to cooler temperatures, while April and May are suitable for travelers seeking fewer crowds. The monsoon season from June to September is generally not recommended for cruises, as rough seas and heavy rainfall can lead to cancellations and limited operations.

Best places to visit in Andaman

1. Port Blair

The capital city of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it is a gateway to India’s colonial history. With several museums, the Cellular Jail, the light and sound shows and plenty of beaches like Viper Beach, Ross Island among others, you would find plenty of places to explore in Port Blair.

How to Reach Port Blair?

Book a cruise ship ticket for Port Blair.

Things to Do

Travel back to history with a guided trip to the Kala Paani or the Cellular Jail, where India’s freedom fighters were once incarcerated.

Watch the light and sound show about India’s freedom struggle at the Cellular Jail

Visit the Samudrika Marine Museum, Anthropological Museum and the Fisheries Museum

Enjoy bird watching at Chidiya Tapu

Go shopping at Aberdeen Market

Recommended Hotels

Symphony Samudra- Avg. price INR 11000/ night

Sinclairs Bayview- Avg. price INR 8800/ night

Keys Select Hotel Aqua Green- Avg. price INR 8600/ night

Sea Shell, Port Blair- Avg. price 7500/night

Restaurants

The Light House Residency– For exquisite seafood delicacies like tiger prawns and lobsters

Gagan Restaurant– Serves finger-licking Bengali fare like Nicobari fish, crab curry and coconut chicken

Excel Restaurant at Lalaji Bay- Visit here for delicious Israeli staples

Sea Sip Bar- Try out their assorted array of cocktails and mocktails

2. Havelock

One of the largest and most popular islands of Andaman, Havelock is blessed with exotic beaches like Kalapthar, Radhanagar, Vijaynagar and the Elephant beach. As you explore, you will fall in love with the raw beauty of Havelock.

How to Reach there?

Book a ferry trip from Port Blair or Neil Island.

Things to do

Stroll around the Elephant Beach.

Explore the marine life with kayaking, snorkelling and boating in a glass-bottomed ferry.

Laze around at Radhanagar Beach.

Witness an active volcano at the Barren Island.

Recommended Hotels

The Loveshack- Avg. price INR 10700/night

Porters Boutique Hotel- Avg. price INR 8700/night

Off the track Cottages- INR 8200/night

Restaurants

Something Different– A cosy open-air beachside restaurant, serving scrumptious international cuisines

Fat Martin– A very popular open-air cafe, famous for their dosas and paneer tikka

Full Moon Cafe– Run by an Irish-Indian couple, this thatched-roof restaurant serves amazing pasta, salad, wraps and fresh fruit juices

3. Neil Island

Neil Island has tropical woodlands, beautiful coral reefs and white sandy beaches. It is a relaxed and quiet retreat.

How to Reach there?

Take a private ferry from Havelock Island.

Things to do

Visit Howrah Bridge, the natural rock formation at Neil Island

Explore the small caves or laze out on the expansive Sitapur Beach

Go jet skiing or enjoy glass-bottomed rides at the Bharatpur beach

Try scuba diving or snorkelling at Bharatpur beach

Go cycling along the coastline

Plan a trek to one of the quaint villages here, with the help of a guide

Recommended Hotels

Aquays Hotel and Resort- INR 8200/night

Sea Shells Samssara- INR 7500/night

Silver Sand Beach Resort Neil- INR 7500/night

Restaurants

Hungry Stone Restaurant– Located at Lakshmanpur, this restaurant serves local seafood delicacies

Dugong– An amazing Indian seafood restaurant, their staple favourites are lobster items, rice and chilli prawns

4. Ross Island

Named after the British marine surveyor, Daniel Ross, Ross island was lovingly named Paris of the East by the British and had housed them for long. Maintained by the Indian Navy, Ross Island retains the ruins of the old British residences even today.

How to Reach there?

15 minutes boat ride from Port Blair Aberdeen Jetty/ Water Sports Complex

Things to Do

Explore the ruins of the Chief Commissioner’s residence and the nearby buildings

Witness the light and sound show here

Recommended Hotels

Visit the sanctuary in the middle of the island

Explore the ruins of the Man Cave with guides

Visit the serene pond, with ruins of British residence nearby

Recommended Hotels

Fortune Resort Bay Island- Avg. price INR 10,800/night

Hotel Sentinel- Avg. price INR 5800/night

Restaurants

Amaya– A resto-bar with quality continental menu, Amaya is a hidden gem in Ross Island.

Courtyard– This is a pristine rooftop restaurant near Ross Island, with quick service and great Indian food

New Lighthouse Restaurant– A great place for good Bengali food and tasty seafood

*The island remains closed on Wednesdays.

Travel itinerary to Andaman

Day 1: Port Blair

Arrival at Port Blair

Corbyn’s Cove Beach for sunset

Light and sound show at Cellular Jail

Day 2: Sightseeing at Port Blair

Breakfast

Limestone volcano cave visit at Baratang

Overnight at Port Blair

Day 3: Havelock, Radhanagar Beach

Private Ferry ride towards Havelock

Sunset at Radhanagar Beach

Overnight stay at Havelock

Day 4: Havelock, Elephant Beach

Travelling to Kalapthar beach

Go Snorkelling

Trip to the Kalapthar village

Overnight stay at Havelock

Day 5: Neil Islands, Bharatpur Beach

Visit the Elephant Beach

Cruising to Neil Island

Bharatpur and Sitapur Beach

Sunset at Laxmanpur beach

Overnight stay at Neil Island

Day 6: Port Blair, Sunset Point

Breakfast and return to Port Blair

Visit Chidya Tapu or Sunset point, for bird watching

Overnight at Port Blair

Day 7: Port Blair, Baratang Islands

Breakfast

Visit the seven harbours around Port Blair

North Bay Island, Ross Island and Smith Island

Overnight at Port Blair

Day 8: Departure after breakfast

Must-try cuisines

Fish Curry and Fish Tandoori

Both must try cuisines while you are in Andamans. The former is a spicy gravy delicacy with fresh fish and the latter is splattered with spices and slow-roasted on fire or oven.

Chilli Curry

Onion, tomatoes and fiery chillies are added to sesame and peanut gravy for bringing out finger-licking flavours.

Coconut Prawn Curry

A local delicacy of Andaman is prawn curry with coconut milk, served with rice which adds a uniqueness to the whole cuisine.

Macher Jhol (Bengali fish curry)

This Bengali dish consists of fresh fish soaked in a simple gravy with green chillies, coriander and turmeric powder for a heartening meal.

Barbecue food

Try relishing freshly barbecued fish like Salmon, Mackerel, King Prawns and Sardines by the sea.

Amritsari Kulcha

Soft, dough bread stuffed with coriander leaves and onion along with seasonings make this an amazing side item with a finger-licking gravy!

Chicken Tikka Masala

An extremely satiating dish is the flavourful Chicken Tikka Masala, a staple North Indian delicacy.

Savour this amazing dish with kulcha or rice for a great platter.

Checklist for Andaman cruise

Reading materials and indoor games to keep yourself engaged throughout the journey

Movies loaded on a cellphone to spend time on the sea

Dry food like cakes, fruits and biscuits in case of limited food choices on cruise

Insect repellent will be required while on land, to keep away sand flies.

Travel adapters, camera chargers and torch

Comfortable clothing, flip flops, sunglasses, hats and sunscreen

FAQ about Andaman cruise trip

1. Can you elaborate on sea sickness affecting the passengers during the journey?

Usually self-diagnosable, seasickness is associated with fatigue, diseases and vomiting, when the ship is on turbulent water.

The intensity of seasickness varies according to the months in which you are travelling. January, February, March, April and November are months with very little seasickness and hence the best time to plan a cruise trip. The months with high chances of causing seasickness August and September, and hence you are requested to take necessary precautions for travelling during that time.

2. Are there ATMs in Port Blair and Havelock?

Yes, Port Blair has quite a few ATMs, while Havelock has 2. But since Havelock doesn’t have any banks, you might find cash depletion in the ATMs. You should carry sufficient cash with you for paying the bills during your journey. Credit cards and MasterCards are not accepted widely throughout Andamans, except in large hotels.

3. What do I need to do in case of a medical emergency?

Most Islands do have a primary health centre. The immediate assistance comes from the primary health centre and in case better treatment is needed, there is GB Pant Hospital in Port Blair.

4. Do I need permits for going to the neighbouring island?

You need to get access from the office of the deputy commissioner of Andamans for travelling to the neighbouring islands occupied by the indigenous tribes.

Plan a trip from Kolkata to Andaman by ship and enjoy the tour to get the beautiful views of the sea and the plethora of adventures that Andaman has in store for you.

If you want to take a flight to Andaman & Nicober Islands, we can curate your entire beach holiday for you. Get in touch with us at connect@flyingsquirrelholidays.com or call us at +91 33 40525777.