The Nicobar Islands are a group of remote islands located south of the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal. Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to the Nicobar group. This route is popular for those interested in exploring pristine nature, tribal cultures, and untouched beaches.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to travel from Port Blair to the Nicobar Islands. You will learn about transport options, travel times, booking tips, and what to expect on arrival, ensuring a smooth and well-planned trip.

Getting from Port Blair to Nicobar Islands – Main Options

Ship

Traveling by ship is the primary and most common way to reach the Nicobar Islands from Port Blair. Passenger ships operate on fixed schedules and provide a direct connection between these islands.

• The government-operated passenger ship runs weekly from Port Blair's Haddo Wharf to Car Nicobar, the northernmost Nicobar Island, covering about 260 km in approximately 18 to 20 hours, depending on sea conditions.

• Fares typically range from INR 300 to INR 800 for different classes, including deck seating and sleeper cabins, with tickets available through the Andaman and Nicobar administration or local agents.

• The ship departs mostly on weekends, so booking tickets well in advance through the official port or IRCTC portal is advisable to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Travelers should prepare for basic facilities on board, limited food options, and possible delays during the monsoon season (June to September) due to rough seas.

• The ship docks at Car Nicobar, from where local boats or government transport connect to other Nicobar Islands, but these connections are infrequent and weather-dependent.

Flight

Currently, there are no commercial flights connecting Port Blair directly to the Nicobar Islands. The lack of airstrips on most Nicobar Islands limits air travel options, making sea travel the only feasible option for most visitors.

• Occasional helicopter services operated by the Indian Navy or administration are available for official or emergency purposes but are not accessible to tourists.

• Travelers should not expect any scheduled commercial flights and plan their journey accordingly.

• For urgent travel, chartered boats or government vessels may be arranged through official channels, but these are rare and costly.

• Always confirm with local authorities or travel offices in Port Blair about any temporary air services before planning your trip.

Private Boat / Charter

For those seeking flexibility and privacy, hiring a private boat or charter from Port Blair to the Nicobar Islands is an option, though it is expensive and requires careful planning.

• Charter boats can be arranged from Port Blair's Marina Park or local boat operators, with travel times similar to government ships but offering more comfort and flexible schedules.

• Costs for private charters can range from INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 or more, depending on boat size, facilities, and duration.

• Private boats offer better amenities, including food, sleeping arrangements, and safety equipment, but require advance booking and permits from the Andaman and Nicobar administration.

• Weather conditions heavily affect private boat travel; monsoon months and rough seas can cause cancellations or delays.

• Travelers should ensure the boat has all necessary safety certifications and that the operator is experienced with Nicobar routes.

Helicopter (Non-Commercial)

Helicopter travel is limited to government or emergency use and is not available for tourists traveling from Port Blair to Nicobar Islands.

• Only authorized personnel or medical emergencies use helicopter services operated by the Indian Navy or administration.

• No commercial helicopter services or tourist flights operate on this route.

• Travelers should not rely on helicopter transport and plan sea travel accordingly.

• Any changes in helicopter availability are rare and announced by official sources.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Port Blair to the Nicobar Islands for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common issues.

• Step 1: Check the ship schedule at the Port Blair Haddo Wharf or official Andaman and Nicobar websites to know the exact departure dates and times, as services run weekly and can change seasonally.

• Step 2: Book your tickets early through the official port office or authorized agents to secure your seat, especially during peak travel seasons or festivals when demand increases.

• Step 3: Arrive at Haddo Wharf at least two hours before departure to complete boarding formalities and security checks, as the port can be crowded and paperwork is mandatory.

• Step 4: Pack essential items such as water, snacks, medicines, and warm clothing since onboard facilities are basic and the journey is long and sometimes rough.

• Step 5: Upon arrival at Car Nicobar, arrange local transport or boat rides to your final destination island, keeping in mind that local connections are limited and may require waiting.

• Step 6: Register with the local administration on arrival, as Nicobar Islands have restricted access and require permits for visitors to protect indigenous communities and environment.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a valid government-issued photo ID and your travel permits, as security checks are strict on Nicobar Islands due to tribal protection laws.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your journey and on the islands to avoid waterborne illnesses common in remote areas.

• Book tickets well in advance through official channels like the Port Blair port office or IRCTC to avoid scams or inflated prices from unauthorized agents.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber to reach Haddo Wharf in Port Blair, as parking is limited and local transport can be unreliable.

• Pack light but include essentials such as mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and basic first aid, since medical facilities on Nicobar Islands are limited.

• Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially during monsoon months, which can cause delays or cancellations of ship services.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Port Blair to the Nicobar Islands is during the dry season, from November to April, when sea conditions are calm and travel is more comfortable. Monsoon months bring heavy rains and rough seas, making travel difficult and sometimes unsafe.

Travelers should avoid peak festival periods like Diwali and Christmas in Port Blair when ship tickets sell out quickly and local transport is crowded. Early morning departures are preferable for smoother sea conditions and timely arrivals.

• Avoid traveling during June to September due to monsoon storms causing frequent delays and cancellations of ship services.

• Plan your journey outside major festivals and holidays to secure tickets and avoid overcrowding on ships and at ports.

• Depart early in the morning from Port Blair to benefit from calmer seas and daylight arrival at Nicobar Islands.

• Monitor weather forecasts closely before your trip to anticipate any disruptions caused by cyclones or heavy rains.

Arrival at Nicobar Islands & What to Expect

When you arrive at Car Nicobar port, you will find basic facilities with limited public transport options. Local commute is mostly via shared jeeps, government buses, or hired taxis, but these are infrequent and may require waiting.

Accommodation options are limited and mostly government-run guest houses or small lodges near the port area. It is advisable to arrange your stay in advance. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are generally not available, so negotiate fares carefully with local drivers.

Conclusion

Traveling from Port Blair to the Nicobar Islands is primarily done by government passenger ships, which offer a reliable but basic service connecting these remote islands. Booking your tickets early and preparing for a long sea journey will make your trip more comfortable and stress-free.

By following this guide’s practical tips and step-by-step plan, you can confidently plan your journey to the Nicobar Islands. Remember to respect local regulations and tribal protections to ensure a safe and respectful visit to this unique part of India.