A First-Timer's Guide to the Andaman Ferry Jetties (2026)

You've successfully booked your ferry tickets online, and your travel day is here. Now comes the part that can feel a bit chaotic for first-time visitors: navigating the ferry jetty. What do you do when you arrive? Where do you go for check-in? What happens to your luggage?

Don't worry. While the jetties are bustling hubs of activity, the process is actually very well-organized and straightforward once you know the steps.

This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step walkthrough of what to expect at the main private ferry jetties—Haddo Jetty in Port Blair, Havelock Jetty, and Neil Jetty—ensuring you can navigate them with the confidence of a seasoned traveler.

1. Know Your Jetties: The Three Main Hubs

• Haddo Jetty, Port Blair: This is the main departure point for all large, private tourist ferries (like Nautika) heading to Havelock and Neil Island. It is a dedicated, modern terminal for private operations.

• Havelock Jetty: The arrival and departure point on Havelock Island. It's a bustling jetty located at the northern end of the island.

• Neil Island Jetty: The arrival and departure point on Neil Island, located right next to the beautiful Bharatpur Beach.

2. The Golden Rule: Arrive One Hour Early

This is the most important rule for a stress-free travel day. You must arrive at your departure jetty at least 60 minutes before your ferry's scheduled departure time. The check-in counters close 15-20 minutes before departure, and arriving early gives you plenty of time to complete all the procedures without rushing.

3. The 5-Step Process for a Smooth Departure

The process is the same at all three jetties.

Step 1: Entry & Initial Ticket Check Upon entering the main terminal building, you will need to show your e-ticket (a digital copy on your phone is fine) to the staff at the entrance.

Step 2: Security Screening Your bags will go through an X-ray scanner, and you will go through a security check, similar to an airport.

Step 3: Check-in at the Ferry Counter Proceed to the dedicated check-in counter for your ferry operator (e.g., the Nautika counter). Here, you will need to present:

• Your E-ticket

• Your original, valid government-issued Photo ID for every passenger. The name on the ID must match the name on the ticket.

You will then be issued physical boarding passes for your journey.

Step 4: Luggage Check-in Your large suitcases will be tagged and taken by the ferry staff to be loaded into the luggage hold. You will receive a token for your bags. Keep your smaller handbags, backpacks, and valuables with you.

Step 5: Boarding the Ferry Once boarding is announced, you will proceed to the ferry. Your boarding pass will be checked one last time as you step on board, where the friendly crew will guide you to your pre-assigned seats.

4. What to Expect Upon Arrival at Your Destination Jetty

When you arrive at Havelock or Neil, you will disembark and be directed to a designated area to collect your checked-in luggage. Simply present your luggage token to the staff. Outside the arrival area, you will find a line of auto-rickshaws, taxis, and hotel representatives waiting to take you to your next destination.

5. Facilities at the Jetties

The main jetties are equipped with basic facilities for travelers.

• Seating: There are large, air-conditioned waiting halls with plenty of seating.

• Restrooms: Clean restroom facilities are available.

• Snack Shops: You can find small shops selling water, soft drinks, and packaged snacks.

Learn About Port Blair Airport Departure