After our time in Port Blair, we proceeded to the Phoenix Bay Jetty to catch our catamaran to Havelock Island (now called Swaraj Dweep). It’s crucial to plan ahead and book ferry tickets early, especially during peak tourist seasons, as Havelock is a highly sought-after destination.

Although we had booked seats on the Gonautika ferry, there were several other options to choose from, including the MAK logistics or Makruzz ferry, Green Ocean Seaways and ITT Majestic. Throughout the day, there were multiple ferry services departing for Havelock Island, which offered us some flexibility in choosing the most convenient time for our journey.

Note that cruises take 2 hours and the Govt ferry (cheaper) takes 3 hours to reach Havelock. Ferries going via Neil Island take an extra 1 hour. Govt. Ferries cannot be booked online, and the first preference is given to the locals. Earlier you could also reach Havelock by Sea Planes and Helicopters but they have been discontinued since 2018.

During the ferry ride, we experienced some high waves and the occasional rough movements, which could lead to seasickness for some travelers. However, the ferry was equipped with a lavatory, allowing passengers to freshen up during the journey. Moreover, there was a small cafeteria on board where we could purchase tea, coffee, samosas, and other light snacks, making the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

After arriving at the Phoenix Bay Jetty (Port Blair Harbor), we were greeted by our car rental service and taken to our hotel on Havelock Island, a journey that took approximately an hour. The lush green surroundings and occasional showers were incredibly refreshing, adding to the tropical charm of the Andaman Islands.

It’s intriguing to think about how the Andaman Islands are an integral part of India, yet they are not as frequented by domestic tourists compared to popular destinations like Goa. In my experience, I couldn’t help but notice that the Andamans are remarkably cleaner than Goa. This emphasis on cleanliness and eco-consciousness has garnered the attention of international tourists, who are more drawn to the Andaman Islands, especially Havelock, for their pristine and unspoiled beauty.

At our hotel, Barefoot, on Havelock Island, we were delighted to discover that it had its very own private access to the famous Radhanagar beach of Havelock, just like many other hotels in the area. This exclusive feature allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the Andaman Islands without venturing out of the hotel.

Throughout the day, we found ourselves happily occupied with a variety of enjoyable activities right at the hotel. Playing on the soft, white sand beaches, building sandcastles, and indulging in the simple pleasures of beach life were truly delightful experiences.

In the tranquil surroundings, we also took leisurely moments to read a few books under the warm sun, savoring the soothing rays and the calming atmosphere. During the evenings, we relished the cozy ambiance as the hotel provided Lal chai (tea) and snacks right at the beach itself, adding to the laid-back charm of our beachfront experience.

With so much to do and the beauty of the private beach to cherish, we never experienced a dull moment during our stay at Barefoot. It was a truly enjoyable and rejuvenating experience, where the hotel’s private beach became our personal haven of relaxation and contentment.

THINGS TO DO IN HAVELOCK

Havelock Island offers a plethora of exciting activities and experiences that cater to various interests. Here are some of the top things to do in Havelock:

1. Enjoy Pristine Beaches : Havelock is renowned for its pristine beaches with soft white sands and turquoise waters. Spend leisurely hours lounging, sunbathing, or taking peaceful walks on Radhanagar Beach. Radhanagar Beach has received numerous accolades and awards, including being featured in Time magazine’s list of the world’s best beaches.
   
   Kalapathar Beach. You can also meet the friendly locals at Kalapathar Village, experience their island’s culture, and savor local cuisine.
   
   Or take a boat ride to Elephant Beach and indulge in water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming with friendly elephants in the sea.
   
2. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving : Explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Havelock. Go snorkeling or scuba diving to witness the diverse marine life, colorful coral reefs, and fascinating underwater landscapes. Or engage in various water sports activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
   
3. Visit Neil Island : Take a day trip to Neil Island (now called Shaheed Dweep), a nearby island known for its serene atmosphere, natural beauty, and relaxed beaches like Bharatpur and Sitapur Beach.
   
4. Witness Bioluminescence : Experience the mesmerizing natural phenomenon of bioluminescence at Havelock’s beaches during certain times of the year. The water glows with tiny organisms, creating a surreal spectacle.
   
5. Mangrove Kayaking : Explore the tranquil mangroves and waterways around Havelock by embarking on a kayaking adventure.
   
6. Sunset Cruises : Embark on a sunset cruise to witness the stunning sunset views over the Andaman Sea.

TIPS

Havelock Island experiences two primary seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). The peak tourist season being from December to February. We visited in August and had a pleasant stay with no weather-related issues to disrupt our experience.

Use Google or Online Andaman Ferry Booking page to select your route – Port Blair to Havelock, Havelock to Neil, Neil to Havelock, Neil to Port Blair or Havelock to Port Blair.

Always book ferry tickets before confirming hotels. Once ferry tickets are sold out, it becomes impossible to get to the island.

Reach the jetty at-least 45 mins prior to the departing time so you have sufficient time for boarding.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ unique appeal and serene atmosphere make them a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It’s my hope that more Indian travelers will discover the mesmerizing beauty of the Andamans and contribute to the growth of sustainable tourism in this captivating region.