Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman Nicobar Islands, is one of India’s most beautiful island destinations. If you are travelling from the southern part of India, Chennai is the best and most convenient starting point to reach Port Blair. Being an island, Port Blair is accessible only by Air (Flights) or Sea (Passenger Ships), and Chennai offers the strongest connectivity for both options.
Whether you are searching for the best way to reach Port Blair from Chennai, planning an Andaman trip from Chennai, or comparing Chennai to Port Blair flights and ship timings, this updated guide gives you the latest information on travel duration, frequency, and the most comfortable route. With daily direct flights and periodic government-operated ships, Chennai remains the most preferred gateway for travellers heading to the Andaman Islands.
When planning your journey from Chennai to Port Blair, travellers have two reliable ways to reach the Andaman Islands. Chennai remains the most preferred gateway because it offers the fastest flights and regular passenger ship services to Port Blair.
1. By Flight – The Fastest and Most Recommended Option
Direct flights from Chennai to Port Blair are the quickest and most convenient way to reach the islands. With multiple airlines operating daily, flights are ideal for tourists looking for a smooth, hassle-free journey.
2. By Ship – A Budget-Friendly but Longer Sea Route
Government-operated passenger ships also connect Chennai to Port Blair. Although the sea journey takes nearly three days, this option is popular among travellers who want an affordable or unique travel experience.
Travelling from Chennai to Port Blair by flight is the fastest and most convenient option, making it the preferred choice for most travellers visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Direct flights take around 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes, offering a smooth and hassle-free journey. Flights depart from Chennai International Airport (MAA) and land at Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair. Several major airlines operate daily on this route, including IndiGo, Air India Express, Air India, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet, providing multiple timings and fare options to suit every traveller’s plan.
Chennai to Port Blair Average Airfare
Why Flights Are the Best Option
For travellers who enjoy a scenic sea journey or are looking for a budget-friendly option, passenger ships from Chennai Port to Port Blair Harbour offer a unique travel experience. The journey typically takes 60 to 72 hours (2.5 to 3 days), depending on weather conditions. The ships operating on this route include MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Nancowry, MV Nicobar, and occasionally MV Harshavardhana, all managed by the Shipping Corporation of India in coordination with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. Ship sailings are limited to 3–4 trips per month, with no daily or weekly guarantee, and schedules can change depending on weather or maintenance, so travellers are advised to plan and book well in advance.
| Class / Berth Type | Fare Range (₹) |
|---|---|
| Deluxe Cabin | 9,000 – 11,000 |
| First Class Cabin | 7,000-9,000 |
| Second Class Cabin | 5,000-7,000 |
| Bunk/Shared Dormitory | 1,800-3,500 |
You can book Chennai to Port Blair ship tickets through the following methods:
1. Visit the Chennai Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) Counter
2. Government Shipping Offices
3. Authorized Travel Agents
4. Limited Online Booking
| Category | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Fastest Way | Flight |
| Most comfortable | Flight |
| Budget Friendly | Ship |
| Best for families & honeymooners | Flight |
| Best for adventure-seekers | Ship |
| Best for Short Trips | Flight |
Conclusion: If you want comfort and convenience, choose flights. If you want a long sea adventure, ships are unique and affordable.
Chennai is the most convenient route to reach Port Blair. Whether you choose a 2.5-hour flight or a 3-day sea voyage, the journey is memorable. Most travellers prefer flights, but ships remain a fascinating experience for those who love the ocean. ou cannot book passenger ship tickets to Port Blair online. To book a ticket, you must purchase it directly from the Chennai Port office or through an authorized travel agent.
The ferry journey from Chennai to Port Blair typically takes 60 to 72 hours, which means you’ll be at sea for about 2.5 to 3 days. The exact travel time can vary depending on the ship’s schedule, sea conditions, and weather.
The flight distance from Chennai to Andaman (Port Blair) is approximately 1,360 km. Direct flights cover this distance in about 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes, depending on the airline and weather conditions.
The fastest way to reach Port Blair from Chennai is by direct flight, which takes only 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes. Flights are the most preferred option because they are quick, comfortable, and operate daily from Chennai to Port Blair.
No, Indian citizens do not need a passport to visit Port Blair, as the Andaman Islands are part of India. You only need to carry a valid government photo ID—like Aadhaar, voter ID, or driving licence—for airport verification and security checks.
Flights are better to reach Port Blair from Chennai because they’re fast, comfortable, and take just a few hours. Ships take 2–3 days and are only ideal for budget travellers or those who want a long sea journey experience.
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Please inform me what will be the total cost for 6 adults and one child of 8 years for 6 night 7 days andaman holiday package . dates from 07.01.2017 to 13.01.2017. please give details of specifc hotels in all the places , havelock, neil and portblair
I am interested in the above package. Can we discuss telephonically.