Havelock to Neil Island Ferry: Complete Booking Guide (2026)
The Havelock to Neil Island ferry journey covers about 18 km. For travel on 15 October 2026, the private feeds returned eight sailings across Makruzz, Nautika and Green Ocean, from 8:15 AM to 3:00 PM and from Rs 1,050. ITT Majestic returned no sailing for that date. Check live inventory because schedules and fares vary.
Fast Facts:
- Distance: 18 km by sea
- Journey Time: 45-90 minutes depending on operator
- Verified snapshot: 8 private sailings on 15 October 2026
- Snapshot window: 8:15 AM-3:00 PM
- Peak Season: December-February (book early)
| Operator | Journey Time | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nautika Pro | 45 minutes | Rs 1,700-3,200 | Speed & luxury comfort |
| Makruzz | 60 minutes | Rs 1,800-3,000 | Reliability & flexibility |
| ITT Majestic | No sailing in snapshot | — | Check live inventory |
| Green Ocean | 75 minutes | From Rs 1,050 in snapshot | Budget travelers |
These are snapshot fares, not final checkout totals. Review the displayed port fees, fuel surcharge and discounts; do not add an assumed GST percentage.
15 October snapshot: eight private sailings; Nautika at 8:15 AM was earliest, Nautika and Makruzz offered 45-60 minute crossings, and Green Ocean started from Rs 1,050. Compare live inventory for your date.
Book Your Havelock to Neil Ferry Tickets →
How Far Is Havelock from Neil Island?
Still exploring Havelock first? See the Havelock Island guide before you hop onward.
Havelock Island and Neil Island are 18 km (10 nautical miles) apart by sea in the Andaman archipelago. There’s no road connection — both islands are separated by open ocean and only ferries cross between them. The Havelock to Neil Island ferry takes 45 minutes (Nautika Pro, Makruzz) to 75 minutes (Green Ocean) on catamaran services running 5 times daily.
Distance breakdown
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Direct sea distance | 18 km |
| Nautical miles | 10 NM |
| Travel mode | Ferry only (no road, no flights) |
| Bay crossed | Andaman Sea, between Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil) |
Journey time by operator
| Operator | Vessel speed | Crossing time | Distance traveled |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nautika Pro | Fastest catamaran | 45 min | 18 km direct route |
| Makruzz | Fast catamaran | 45 min | 18 km direct route |
| ITT Majestic | Standard catamaran | 60 min | 18 km direct route |
| Green Ocean | Mono-hull (slowest) | 60-75 min | 18 km direct route |
Havelock to Neil is a shorter inter-island crossing than Port Blair to Havelock. A shorter journey does not establish calmer conditions or a lower risk of motion sickness; weather, vessel motion and individual sensitivity all matter.
All operators take the same direct sea route — there are no scenic-route alternatives or multi-stop options. Differences in journey time come purely from vessel speed, not distance.
Which Ferry Operators Run Havelock to Neil Island Route?
Search the Havelock to Neil Island ferry route for your date. The dated inventory below does not establish that all four private operators run daily.
Nautika returned three departures in the dated snapshot below. Compare the actual vessel, cabin type, duration and complete fare for your date. Confirm any advertised Wi-Fi or refreshment inclusions rather than relying on them for an essential call or meal.
Makruzz returned three departures in the dated snapshot below. Different vessels and classes may be offered; confirm the selected cabin layout and any refreshment inclusions before paying.
ITT Majestic operates a catamaran on selected dates and routes, but returned no Havelock-to-Neil sailing in the verified 15 October snapshot. If it appears for your date, compare its live classes and fare with the other operators.
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)
The 15 October snapshot returned three Makruzz departures (10:00 AM, 10:45 AM and 2:30 PM), three Nautika departures (8:15 AM, 9:25 AM and 3:00 PM), and two Green Ocean departures (9:15 AM and 9:45 AM).
ITT Majestic returned no sailing for that travel date. This is a dated inventory check, not a fixed seasonal timetable; weather and vessel deployment can change the result.
Monsoon Schedule (June to September)
Monsoon weather and operational changes can affect any departure. This guide does not contain comparable audited data to rank operators or departure times for cancellation risk.
In our own bookings, Havelock → Neil kept about 19% of its peak-season monthly volume through the 2025 monsoon, one of the steepest seasonal falls on the network. See the seasonal patterns study for the figures and method.
Leave recovery time between legs and check current operator and port notices. Our dated ferry schedule is a planning reference; live search is needed for your date.
Havelock to Neil Island Ferry Prices (2026 Season)
Neil island ferry prices vary by sailing date, operator and class. The older regular- and peak-season tables below are historical references, separate from the dated snapshot above; they are not a current minimum/maximum or final payable total. Select your travel date and compare the complete checkout breakdown.
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 1,650, Majesty Rs 1,850 (1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027, read from ITT’s booking feed on 10 October 2026)
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)
The older peak-season examples are not a universal surcharge rule. Search the actual holiday travel date: seasonal pricing may already be included in the selected fare. Do not add Rs 100 automatically or assume every operator has the same policy.
Child/Infant Policies:
Include infants in your passenger count. Port fees and an applicable fuel surcharge can still be charged even if an infant base fare is zero. Confirm the selected operator’s age cutoffs, fare components and seat entitlement with support before payment.
| Class Type | Green Ocean | ITT Majestic | Makruzz | Nautika Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy/Premium | Rs 1,350 | Rs 1,650 | Rs 1,800 | Rs 1,700 |
| Deluxe/Royal | Rs 1,700-1,900 | Rs 1,850 | Rs 2,100-2,900 | Rs 1,900 |
| Business | N/A | N/A | N/A | Rs 3,200 |
BookYourFerry’s checkout combines the selected fare, port fees, applicable fuel surcharge and discounts. Do not add assumed GST or a second seasonal surcharge to the displayed total. Tax inclusion in the historical tables is unverified. See the fare and checkout breakdown.
Compare Prices & Book Your Boat Online →
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.
Planning tip: compare timings and final totals for your date. We have not established a fixed morning premium or a medical comfort advantage for early sailings.
How to Book Your Havelock to Neil Ferry Tickets
Search current Havelock to Neil Island ferry availability and choose a suitable sailing. A search result is not a confirmed ticket; check the booking confirmation after payment.
Unsure about the process itself? Our Andaman ferry booking guide explains tickets, IDs and refunds across all operators.
Online Booking Process (Recommended)
Step 1: Select your travel date and preferred operator on our Havelock to Neil booking page. The system displays live availability from participating operators with instant price comparisons.
Step 2: Enter every passenger, including infants, with details matching the required ID. Review any discounts actually displayed at checkout; there is no automatic 5% discount for a group of ten established by this guide.
Step 3: Complete payment using a method offered at checkout. Check for the issued operator ticket and booking reference; payment success alone is not confirmation. Contact support if the ticket is missing before paying again.
Ticket format: Follow the selected operator’s current ticket and boarding instructions. Carry an accessible copy and a printed backup; this guide does not establish universal mobile-ticket acceptance.
Counter Tickets at Havelock Jetty
Ask the operator about actual counter availability and the final quoted price. Do not assume a fixed counter premium or that seats will remain available.
Check current counter hours and ticket availability before going to the jetty. A walk-in seat is not guaranteed. If your itinerary depends on a particular crossing, confirm the ticket and follow that operator’s check-in instructions.
Last-minute bookings: Check current online inventory and the operator’s cutoff for the selected sailing. No universal two-hour cutoff or sell-out deadline is verified here.
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
For Comparing Departure Times: Makruzz
Makruzz returned 10:00 AM, 10:45 AM and 2:30 PM departures in the 15 October snapshot. These are dated observations, not a reliability guarantee or permanent timetable. Confirm cabin and refreshment inclusions for the selected departure.
For Mid-Range Value: ITT Majestic
ITT Majestic returned no Havelock-to-Neil sailing in the dated snapshot. If it appears for your travel date, compare its live class price and timing with the other operators.
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.
Compare Green Ocean’s available Economy option with other operators using the final price and journey time for your date. The historical Rs 1,350 reference does not establish a fixed saving or a cheapest-operator verdict.
Recommendation: Choose an available sailing that fits your itinerary, budget and confirmed cabin requirements. No operator ranking here establishes better reliability or protection from motion sickness.
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).
Follow your ticket’s current check-in instructions and present the required ID and ticket format. Carry a printed backup and confirm baggage handling with the operator.
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: Published terms list 25 kg registered baggage; confirm any excess or oversized-bag conditions
- Nautika: Public FAQ and terms conflict; confirm the allowance and excess charge for your ticket
- Green Ocean: Confirm current weight and size limits with the operator
- ITT Majestic: Published terms list up to 25 kg per ticketed passenger, excluding infants; confirm conditions for oversized or excess bags
Excess baggage: Charges and cabin-bag rules vary. Confirm them with your ticket provider before bringing heavy or oversized bags; there is no verified shared per-kilogram rate for all operators here.
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 route planning, operator comparisons and booking advice, see our complete Andaman ferry 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
A morning departure can leave more of the day available after arrival. It does not guarantee calm water, clear snorkeling conditions or on-time arrival. Choose using the actual arrival estimate and leave time for delays before any fixed activity.
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: Compare your dates for availability and total price. November does not carry a guaranteed weather, crowd or seasonal-price advantage.
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.
Motion-sickness planning: Conditions and individual sensitivity vary. Ask a doctor or pharmacist about suitable precautions and any medicine; a higher fare does not establish a medical benefit.
Booking planning: Check availability once you know your dates. This guide does not establish a universal sell-out deadline or guarantee last-minute seats on afternoon sailings.
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.
Once you land, our Neil Island guide covers the beaches, the Natural Rock Bridge, and getting around.
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 Neil Island guide.
Return Ferry Options: Neil Island Connections
Neil Island’s onward routes are directional. BookYourFerry currently offers Neil → Port Blair, but not a direct private Neil → Havelock search. Check the actual date before confirming your onward journey.
Neil to Port Blair (Direct Service)
All operators run direct Neil Island to Port Blair ferry 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: Do not use the timetable above as a guaranteed flight connection. Check the selected sailing and airline deadlines; an overnight buffer in Port Blair reduces connection pressure but cannot eliminate disruption risk.
Neil to Havelock (Not Currently Offered on BYF)
There is no direct private Neil → Havelock booking option on BookYourFerry under the route guidance confirmed on 19 September 2026. Do not plan a day trip to Neil that relies on a direct private return to Havelock.
Plan Havelock first, then Neil and onward to Port Blair. If you are already on Neil and need Havelock, check separate journeys via Port Blair, allowing an overnight stay if the timings do not connect. See the Neil to Havelock route alternatives; no protected same-day connection is promised.
Booking Return Tickets
Book return tickets alongside your outbound journey for easier planning. Use our booking system to compare the currently available fares for each leg.
Cancellation and changes: For BYF bookings, follow the published passenger cancellation policy. Ask support about the selected ticket’s deadlines, deductions and change options; operator-direct terms require separate confirmation.
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.
Compare Havelock to Neil Tickets →
Frequently Asked Questions About Havelock to Neil Ferry
How far is Neil Island from Havelock?
Neil Island and Havelock Island are 18 km (10 nautical miles) apart by sea. There is no road connection — both islands are separated by the Andaman Sea and only ferries cross between them. The crossing takes 45 minutes on fast catamarans (Makruzz, Nautika Pro) or 60-75 minutes on Green Ocean’s slower mono-hull vessels.
How many km is Havelock to Neil Island by ferry?
The Havelock to Neil Island ferry route is 18 km direct sea distance, equivalent to 10 nautical miles. All operators take the same direct route across the Andaman Sea — there are no scenic-route alternatives or multi-stop options. The 45-75 minute crossing time difference comes from vessel speed, not from distance.
How many ferries run daily from Havelock to Neil Island?
Use the dated inventory example in this guide, then check live search for your actual date. This guide does not establish a fixed year-round frequency or guarantee that morning seas are calmer.
What is the cheapest ferry from Havelock to Neil Island?
Compare currently available sailings for the same date, route and passenger group using final totals. Older Green Ocean and ITT references do not establish the cheapest available option or a fixed upgrade price; confirm the selected class and journey time.
Can I cancel my Havelock to Neil ferry ticket?
For BookYourFerry bookings: our published passenger cancellation policy states that an operator cancellation for weather or technical reasons qualifies for a 100% refund including all fees, or a free reschedule. This guide does not change that BYF commitment. Operator-direct and government ticket conditions are separate and need confirmation.
Read BookYourFerry’s published passenger cancellation policy separately from the selected operator’s ticket conditions. Ask support to confirm deadlines, deductions, refundable fees, processing time and rescheduling conditions. Operator-direct terms still need confirmation; BYF bookings follow the published policy.
What happens if my ferry gets cancelled due to bad weather?
If your sailing is cancelled, contact the operator or support to confirm available alternatives and the conditions for any refund or reschedule. For BYF bookings, the published operator-cancellation commitment applies. Ask support about processing times and transfer availability, and preserve a buffer before onward travel.
Is food available on the Havelock to Neil ferry?
Confirm refreshment inclusions for the selected vessel and class before booking. Current meal entitlements, cafeteria availability and catering arrangements are not verified consistently enough here to promise complimentary food or a named caterer.
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?
No seat or operator guarantees freedom from motion sickness. Ask the operator about the actual layout and follow crew instructions. Discuss any medicine or individual precautions with a doctor or pharmacist.
How early should I book ferry tickets during peak season?
Check released inventory early when dates are fixed, especially around holidays. There is no verified universal sell-out deadline, minimum booking lead time or no-surcharge month.
Are there direct ferries from Neil Island back to Port Blair?
Direct Neil to Port Blair services are available, but the operator mix varies. The 15 October 2026 feed snapshot returned eight sailings across Makruzz, Nautika and Green Ocean; ITT returned no inventory for that date. Check live results rather than assuming every operator runs daily.
What documents do I need for the Havelock to Neil ferry?
Check current ticket and ID requirements for each traveller, including children and international passengers. Carry a printed ticket backup and ensure details match the required ID; confirm any permit requirements with the relevant authority.
Ferry schedules and prices change with season, vessel deployment and weather. For live availability, visit BookYourFerry.com.
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