Best Day Trips From Port Blair in 2026 | Island Tours, Water Activities & Tips
You're heading to the Andaman Islands in 2026, and Port Blair will be your first stop. Most travelers see it as just a transit point before catching ferries to Havelock and Neil Island.
But here's what many miss: Port Blair sits right in the middle of some incredible day trip destinations that deserve at least two nights of your time.
Why Port Blair is the best base for day trips in Andaman? Port Blair's central location makes it a natural hub for visiting nearby islands and attractions. You can reach most spots within 30 minutes to 2 hours by ferry or road.
The city has reliable transport options, established tour operators, and daily ferry services that make planning spontaneous trips easy. Unlike the outer islands, you get a mix of historical sites, wildlife parks, and pristine beaches all within day-trip distance.
& Why Port Blair Is Perfect for Short Day Trips?
Central location and ferry connectivity: Port Blair has three main jetties, i.e, Aberdeen, Phoenix Bay, and Chatham, with regular services to nearby islands. Most day trips start between 8-9 AM and return by 4-5 PM, giving you enough time without the hassle of overnight stays.
The city's road network also connects you to land-based attractions like Chidiya Tapu and Mount Harriet within an hour's drive.
Availability of guided tours and transport: You'll book a tour with Andaman travel operators at every jetty offering package tours. Local taxi drivers know the routes well and many speak basic English. For water-based trips, licensed operators handle permits and safety equipment.
Solo travelers can easily join group tours, while families can book private vehicles for flexibility.
What is The Best Time to Plan Short Day Trips From Port Blair?
October to May: The sweet spot for island hopping
These months bring clear skies, calm seas, and comfortable temperatures between 23-30°C.
October and November see fewer crowds as the season just starts picking up.
December to February is peak tourist season with the best weather but higher prices and advance bookings needed for ferries.
March to May gets warmer but remains ideal for beach activities and water sports.
Sea condition considerations for ferries and boats
Even during good weather months, morning sailings tend to be smoother than afternoon trips when winds pick up.
Check the weather forecast a day before your planned trip, especially for smaller islands. Ferry operators in Andaman may cancel trips if wave heights exceed safe limits.
Best Day Trips From Port Blair in 2026
1. Ross Island
If you enjoy history and short sea rides, Ross Island is one of the easiest day trips you can take from Port Blair. Boats leave early from Aberdeen Jetty and return by mid-afternoon, giving you plenty of time to linger among the ruins and wildlife.
Approximate Costs: Round-trip boat tickets to Ross Island cost around ₹370 – ₹500 per person when booked locally at the jetty. Entry fees may apply separately.
Best Boat Timings: Boats typically start around 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM from Aberdeen Jetty. It is best to catch an early ferry (before 10:30 AM) so you have more time on the island.
What You Can Do: Explore colonial buildings, gardens, and viewpoints; see peacocks and deer; take photos of the old chapel and administrative ruins.
This short ride makes Ross Island perfect for a half-day trip followed by another outing in the afternoon.
2. Chidiya Tapu
A scenic road trip from Port Blair takes you through tropical forests to the quiet shores of Chidiya Tapu. This is a great choice if you want nature, a gentle hike, and classic sunset photos.
Approximate Costs: There is no main boat for this trip since you reach it by road. A taxi from Port Blair is usually ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 one way, depending on where you start.
Best Timing: Arrive in the late afternoon to catch the sunset at Munda Pahar (Sunset Point) after some light trekking.
Chidiya Tapu’s relaxed vibes and wide views make it ideal for a calm day ending with an impressive sunset.
3. North Bay Island
Just a short boat ride gets you to North Bay Island, where you can spend a full morning or afternoon enjoying shallow waters and optional water activities.
Approximate Costs: Shared boat tickets from Aberdeen Jetty to North Bay are around ₹700 per person for a round trip. Combo tickets for Ross Island and North Bay are around ₹900 per person.
Entry Fees: Separate minimal island entry charges apply (around ₹10 – ₹25 per person on most days).
Best Boat Timings: Boats run roughly between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM from Aberdeen Jetty, with return trips into the afternoon.
Here you can swim, try sea walking, snorkeling, or enjoy semi-submarine rides in clear shallow water with views below you.
4. Jolly Buoy Island
Jolly Buoy is one of the most popular choices if you want scenic water views without deep swimming. The island is inside a protected zone, and visits are seasonal (usually from October to April).
Approximate Costs: Book private boat tickets to Jolly Buoy Island from Wandoor cost around ₹1,050 – ₹1,300 per person including permit, with permit fees itself being around ₹75 per person.
Best Boat Timings: Boats generally leave 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM from Wandoor Jetty.
Permit rules and seasonal opening mean you should plan this trip in the recommended months and book permits a day before.
5. Mount Harriet National Park
Mount Harriet is different from other sea trips. You reach it by a boat plus drive and get forest trails, hilltop views, and plenty of bird and butterfly activity.
Approximate Costs: Ferry across from Chatham Jetty to Bamboo Flat is modest (often just a small ferry charge per vehicle or person), and road taxis from Port Blair vary by distance.
Best Start Time: Morning departures are best so you have plenty of daylight for hill trails.
It is a nice mix of forest and hill views if you want a change from sea-based trips.
6. Red Skin Island
Red Skin is seasonal, opening when Jolly Buoy is closed (and vice-versa) to protect the sensitive marine environment.
Approximate Costs: Shared boat tickets to Red Skin Island plus permit is similar to Jolly Buoy pricing when open (₹1,000 + including permits).
Best Timing: Early morning boats from Wandoor Jetty give you calm water and more time at the beach.
Because there are no food stalls and only limited visitors, Red Skin feels peaceful and low-key.
Tips for Boats and Timings
Boats to most islands leave in the morning between 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM and return by late afternoon.
Check ticket counters or online listings for latest times, as they can shift with seasons and weather.
How to Start Your Day Trips From Port Blair
When you’re heading out for a day trip from Port Blair, the first step is knowing where to go first and how to reach each starting point. Below is a simple, point-by-point guide to help you begin your adventure smoothly.
Point 1: Aberdeen Jetty
Main departure point for short island trips near Port Blair.
Boats to Ross Island, North Bay Island, and Viper Island leave from here.Best option if you are staying in the city center, as it’s the closest and easiest to reach.
Arrive early in the morning to grab your boat tickets and ensure smooth boarding.
Point 2: Wandoor Jetty
Used for trips to Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island.
Around 25–30 km from Port Blair, connected by road.
Permits for protected islands are often checked here before boarding boats.
Ideal for full-day trips that get you deeper into marine zones.
Point 3: Chatham Jetty
Starting point for trips toward Mount Harriet National Park.
Vehicle ferries operate from here to Bamboo Flat, saving you road travel earlier in the day.
A great option if you are combining a nature walk or forest trail with your day trip.
Transport Options:
Taxis and Rental Scooters:
Taxis are a comfortable and flexible way to reach jetties early in the morning, especially if you’re heading out with family or luggage.
Rental scooters are a budget-friendly choice for solo travelers or couples, and they give you freedom to stop along the way.
Keep in mind that fuel stations close early, so plan refueling before your trip starts.
Public Buses for Nearby Locations:
Public buses connect major points like Port Blair, Wandoor, and Chatham.
They are economical and run frequently, but travel times are longer than taxis or scooters.
If you’re not in a rush and want a local experience, buses are a good choice.
Approximate Travel Time
Water Activities You Can Add to Day Trips
If you want more than just sightseeing on your day trips, Port Blair has fun options that let you enjoy the sea up close. These mix thrill and leisure, and most can be added easily to island visits like North Bay or Jolly Buoy.
Snorkeling and Beginner Scuba
When clear, shallow waters are perfect, snorkeling lets you float gently above fish and underwater life without needing heavy gear. If you want more depth and confidence, beginner scuba gives you a chance to go slightly deeper with a guide by your side. Many operators near North Bay and other island points offer packages that fit into half-day schedules.
Good to know:
Snorkeling sessions usually last about 30-60 minutes.
Beginner scuba sessions include basic training before you enter the water.
Best on calm sea days; visibility varies with weather.
Kayaking and Night Kayaking
Kayaking is a relaxed way to paddle in shallow water or along mangroves near the shore. You control your own pace, making it ideal for all ages. If you’re up for something different, night kayaking is available in select spots where bioluminescence lights up the water after dark — a magic scene to remember.
Good to know:
Daytime kayaking runs in calm coves or mangrove channels.
Night kayaking sessions usually start after sunset and include safety briefings.
Wear quick-dry clothes and bring a torch for night trips.
Sea Walking and Boat Rides
Sea walking is perfect if you want to see underwater life without snorkeling or scuba gear. You wear a helmet that keeps your head dry while you walk on the sea floor. It’s a popular add-on at shallow island spots like North Bay.
Most day trips also give you the option of boat rides, from glass-bottom boats to simple island ferries, that let you enjoy the views without getting in the water.
Good to know:
Sea walking sessions usually last around 15-30 minutes.
Glass-bottom boats give underwater views even if you stay dry.
Remote beach boat rides may have limited slots, so check timing.
Permits, Tickets, and Booking Tips for 2026
Getting your tickets and permits in order is an important part of island travel from Port Blair. For 2026, here’s what you need to know so your day trips stay smooth and stress-free.
Entry Permits for Protected Islands
Some islands, especially those within national parks or protected areas (like Jolly Buoy and Red Skin), require visitor permits. These are issued by local authorities and are usually checked before you board a boat. Permits are limited on many days to protect the environment.
Tips:
Ask your hotel or tour operator a day before departure.
Permit counters near Wandoor Jetty handle most bookings.
Keep your permit confirmation with you during the trip.
Costs to Expect for Day Trips From Port Blair
When budgeting for your Port Blair day outings, it helps to know the typical charges so you’re not caught off guard. These are rough estimates based on common service pricing in 2025–2026.
Boat and Ferry Charges
Ross Island: ₹370 – ₹500 per person (round trip)
North Bay (alone): ₹700 – ₹900 per person
Ross + North Bay combo: ₹900 – ₹1,200 per person
Jolly Buoy / Red Skin: ₹1,000 – ₹1,400 per person (incl. permit)
(Prices may vary with season and operator)
Activity Costs
Snorkeling: ₹400 – ₹900 per session
Beginner Scuba: ₹1,500 – ₹4,500 depending on depth & provider
Sea Walking: ₹800 – ₹1,200 per person
Kayaking: ₹2,000 – ₹2,500 for basic sessions
(Rates can change with operators and season)
Taxi and Local Transport Estimates
Port Blair to Aberdeen Jetty: ₹150 – ₹300
Port Blair to Wandoor Jetty: ₹900 – ₹1,500 one way
Port Blair to Chatham Jetty: ₹300 – ₹500
Local autos/short rides: ₹50 – ₹200 per ride
This gives you a realistic daily budget for travel, boats, and activities.
Practical Tips for Day Trips From Port Blair
Day trips are fun, but a few simple precautions go a long way. Below are practical reminders to make your outings smooth and safe.
What to Carry for Island Trips
Water bottle (stay hydrated)
Sun protection: cap, sunglasses, sunscreen
Extra cash for entry fees or small purchases
Phone power bank
Snacks or light food for full-day trips
ID & tickets/permits (keep digital + hard copy)
Clothing and Footwear Advice
Comfortable, quick-dry clothes are best
Flip-flops or sandals for beaches
Sturdy shoes if you plan hikes or forest trails
Light jacket if you are going in early morning or evening
Safety Tips and Weather Checks
Always check sea conditions before you board boats
Avoid long rides during monsoon months (June–September)
Keep an eye on children near water
Stay updated with local weather alerts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced travelers make these errors in Andaman. Avoiding them will save time and frustration.
Overloading Too Many Islands in One Day
Trying to cover more than 2–3 islands in a single day often leaves you rushed and tired. Pick fewer places, enjoy them fully, and return relaxed.
Ignoring Permit Rules
Islands like Jolly Buoy and Red Skin require permits. Not checking this before arrival can mean waiting or missing the trip entirely. Always confirm permit status a day before.
Underestimating Travel Time to Jetties
Boat departures are fixed, and reaching jetties late can cost you the whole trip. Plan travel to jetty at least 30 minutes before boarding time.
FAQs :
Here are answers to the frequent questions travelers ask before heading out.
Which is the Best Day Trip From Port Blair?
Every trip has its charm.
Ross Island for history and ruins
North Bay for water fun
Jolly Buoy/Red Skin for shallow sea life views
Chidiya Tapu for nature and sunset
Your choice depends on whether you want history, nature, or water activities.
Can Jolly Buoy and Chidiya Tapu Be Done in One Day?
Yes, it’s possible to combine Jolly Buoy with Chidiya Tapu in a single full-day trip because Wandoor Jetty is the access point for both. Starting early makes this feasible.
Are Day Trips in Andaman Suitable for Families?
Absolutely. Many islands and activities (like glass-bottom boats and easy walks) are family-friendly. Just plan around weather and sea conditions for kids.
How Many Day Trips Should Be Planned?
If you have 3–5 days in Port Blair, 2–3 day trips spread out with rest and local sightseeing balance adventure and relaxation nicely.
How to Choose the Right Day Trips Based on Time?
1 Day: Pick either water activity + boat island like Ross or North Bay
2 Days: Add Jolly Buoy or Red Skin with beach and marine viewing
3+ Days: Include a nature or hill day like Chidiya Tapu or Mount Harriet
Match your pace with the amount of walking and water activity you prefer.
Port Blair has its own stories, beaches, wildlife spots, and activities. Staying a couple of nights and doing day trips lets you see different facets of Andaman, from history and forests to water adventures, without exhaustion or rush.