Ross Island is a small island located near Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is famous for its colonial ruins and natural beauty, making it a popular day-trip destination for visitors to Port Blair. Many travelers want to know the best ways to reach Ross Island safely and comfortably.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options from Port Blair to Ross Island, including ferry schedules, boat rides, and local travel tips. You will also learn about the best time to visit, what to expect on arrival, and how to plan your trip step-by-step.

Getting from Port Blair to Ross Island – Main Options

Ferry

Ferries are the most common and affordable way to reach Ross Island from Port Blair. They run regularly and offer a scenic ride across the harbour.

• Ferries depart from the Aberdeen Jetty in Port Blair, located near the main town area, with trips taking about 20 to 30 minutes to reach Ross Island.

• Fares typically range between ₹100 to ₹150 per person for a round trip, making it a budget-friendly option for most travelers.

• Ferry services operate mainly during daylight hours, from around 8 AM to 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing the last boat back.

• During peak tourist season and weekends, ferries can get crowded, so arriving early is advisable to secure a seat and avoid long waits.

• Monsoon months (June to September) may cause ferry delays or cancellations due to rough sea conditions, so check weather updates before planning your trip.

Boat Ride / Private Boat

Hiring a private boat is a flexible and comfortable option, especially for groups or those wanting to explore at their own pace.

• Private boats can be hired from Port Blair’s Marina Jetty or Aberdeen Jetty, with prices ranging from ₹1500 to ₹3000 depending on boat size and negotiation skills.

• The boat ride to Ross Island takes about 15 to 20 minutes, offering a more personalized and direct route compared to scheduled ferries.

• Private boats allow you to choose your departure time, ideal for early morning or late afternoon visits when ferries are less frequent.

• Ensure the boat operator provides life jackets and follows safety norms, especially during the monsoon season when sea conditions can be unpredictable.

• Private boats often include stops at nearby islands like North Bay, so you can combine multiple sightseeing spots in one trip.

Car / Self-Drive

Since Ross Island is accessible only by water, you cannot drive directly there. However, you can drive or take a taxi to the ferry points in Port Blair.

• Port Blair is well connected by roads, and you can hire a taxi or rent a self-drive car to reach Aberdeen Jetty, the main departure point for Ross Island ferries.

• The drive from Port Blair city center to Aberdeen Jetty takes about 10 to 15 minutes, covering roughly 5 km via NH4 and local roads.

• Parking is available near the jetty, but it can get crowded during peak hours, so plan to arrive early to find a spot easily.

• Using app-based cabs like Ola or Uber is convenient and safe for reaching the jetty without worrying about parking or navigation.

• Driving yourself allows flexibility in timing and lets you explore other nearby attractions in Port Blair before or after your Ross Island visit.

Flight

There are no flights to Ross Island as it is a small island accessible only by boat. The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.

• Most visitors arrive at Port Blair airport from mainland India cities like Chennai, Kolkata, or Delhi before continuing to Ross Island by ferry or boat.

• From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Aberdeen Jetty, which is about 15 minutes away by road.

• Flight schedules to Port Blair vary seasonally, so book your flights well in advance, especially during tourist peak seasons.

• There are no direct flights or seaplane services to Ross Island, so plan your onward travel by sea accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Ross Island to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Step 1: Arrive in Port Blair by flight or ship and check into your accommodation. This helps you rest and prepare for the day trip to Ross Island.

• Step 2: Head to Aberdeen Jetty early in the morning to buy ferry tickets at the counter or book online if available, securing your spot for the trip.

• Step 3: Board the ferry or private boat, wear comfortable clothes, and carry water and sunscreen for the short sea journey to Ross Island.

• Step 4: Explore Ross Island’s historic ruins, nature trails, and viewpoints. Follow local guidelines and avoid restricted areas to preserve the site.

• Step 5: Return to Port Blair by ferry before the last scheduled departure, usually around 4 PM, to avoid being stranded on the island.

• Step 6: Use local taxis or app-based cabs from the jetty to return to your hotel or explore other nearby attractions in Port Blair.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options on Ross Island are limited and may not suit all tastes or dietary needs.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a hat or umbrella, as the island has uneven paths and limited shade in some areas.

• Book ferry tickets early during peak seasons or holidays to avoid long queues and sold-out trips, especially on weekends.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Port Blair for safe and fair-priced local travel to and from the jetty.

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large bags, as there are no luggage facilities on the ferry or island.

• Check weather forecasts before your trip; avoid visiting during heavy monsoon rains or rough seas for safety and comfort.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Ross Island is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. Avoid the monsoon months for safer travel.

Seasonal factors like festivals and weather can affect ferry availability and crowd levels, so plan your visit accordingly.

• Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains and rough seas that may cause ferry cancellations.

• Peak tourist periods like December to February see higher crowds and fully booked ferries, so book tickets in advance.

• Early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making these the best times to travel to Ross Island.

• During local festivals or holidays, expect increased traffic at the jetty and plan extra time for boarding and disembarking.

Arrival at Ross Island & What to Expect

When you arrive at Ross Island, you will disembark at the main jetty, which is close to the island’s key attractions. The island is small and walkable, with clear signboards and guided tours available.

Local transport on Ross Island is limited to walking, so be prepared for some light trekking. There are no shops or restaurants on the island, so carry essentials with you. After your visit, ferries return you to Port Blair’s Aberdeen Jetty, where prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available for onward travel.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Ross Island is by taking the regular ferry service from Aberdeen Jetty in Port Blair. It is affordable, reliable, and offers a scenic journey across the harbour. For more flexibility, private boats are a good option, especially for groups or those wanting to explore nearby islands.

Planning your trip with attention to ferry timings, weather conditions, and ticket bookings will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. With the right preparation, you can confidently explore Ross Island’s unique history and natural beauty during your stay in the Andaman Islands.