Port Blair to Car Nicobar Island Travel – Ferry & Helicopter Schedule, Fares & Others
Complete Car Nicobar travel guide from Port Blair.
Helicopter fares, ship schedules, permit info, and tips for visiting this remote Nicobar island.
Located in the northernmost part of the Nicobar group, Car Nicobar feels like stepping into another world. About 260 kilometers from Port Blair, this flat coral island remains one of the Bay Islands’ most offbeat destinations.
Getting here isn’t simple. A twice-weekly passenger ship takes roughly 16 hours, or you can catch limited Pawan Hans helicopter services. The journey keeps visitor numbers naturally low, which is exactly what preserves the island’s raw authenticity.
What awaits? Silvery beaches fringed by dense coconut plantations stretch along the 51-kilometer coastline. The indigenous Nicobarese people, numbering around 19,336, live in distinctive beehive-shaped huts raised on stilts in villages like Malacca (U-rèk-ka), Arong, Kakana, and Perka.
Special permits are required to visit, as Car Nicobar falls within the Tribal Reserve Area designed to protect local communities and their centuries-old traditions. Tourism infrastructure is minimal, but that’s the appeal: you’re not visiting a resort island, you’re witnessing a living culture harmoniously intertwined with nature.
IMPORTANT: The Nicobar district is accessible from Port Blair by sea as well as by air. Car Nicobar, which serves as the district headquarters, lies approximately 250 km away from Port Blair. Except for Campbell Bay, the entire Nicobar district is a restricted area, and visitors are required to obtain a Landing Permit from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Andaman District (Contact: 03192-237825, 03192-232763, 03192 233 089).
Port Blair to Car Nicobar Island At A Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Port Blair | Approximately 260 kilometers (north of Port Blair) |
| Helicopter Travel Time | Regular Pawan Hans helicopter service available |
| Helicopter Fare (Tourists) | ₹10,800 per person (one way, 75% subsidy) |
| Helicopter Fare (Islanders) | ₹4,350 per person (one way, 90% subsidy for islanders, medical cases, govt officials) |
| Ship Travel Time | Approximately 16 hours by passenger ship |
| Ship Service | Twice weekly passenger ship service operated by Directorate of Shipping Services, Port Blair |
| Ship Ticket Price | Available through Directorate of Shipping Services (booking required in advance) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May (tropical climate with temperatures 23-30°C; annual rainfall 2,600-2,800mm) |
| Special Permit Required | Yes – Car Nicobar is within the Andaman & Nicobar Tribal Reserve Area. Special tribal/landing permits mandatory to protect indigenous communities |
| Main Attractions | Traditional Nicobarese villages (Malacca/U-rèk-ka, Arong, Kakana, Perka), pristine silvery beaches, indigenous beehive-shaped huts, coconut plantations, local tribal culture |
| Key Facilities | Basic infrastructure near IAF base including hospital, bank, post office, police station, DC office, small shops. Limited tourism facilities |
Port Blair to Car Nicobar Govt. Ferry Schedule
Reaching Car Nicobar by sea requires patience and planning. The Directorate of Shipping Services operates passenger ships approximately twice a week from Port Blair, with the journey taking around 16 hours depending on sea conditions. This remains the most affordable option for locals and budget travelers. Tickets must be booked in advance at the Directorate office in Port Blair, with priority typically given to island residents and essential travelers.
NOTE: The government ferry schedule and fares are subject to change. Always check the official DSS (Directorate of Shipping Services) website before planning your trip.
| Vessel | Route | Time (Dep → Arr) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| MV Kalighat (Destination Campbell Bay) | Sri Vijayapuram → Car Nicobar | 07:00 → 05:00 | 22 hr |
| MV Kalighat (Destination Campbell Bay) | Little Andaman → Car Nicobar | 20:00 → 05:00 | 9 hr |
| MV Kalighat (Destination Nancowry) | Sri Vijayapuram → Car Nicobar | 07:00 → 06:00 (next day) | 23 hr |
| MV Kalighat (Destination Nancowry | Little Andaman → Car Nicobar | 20:00 → 06:00 (next day) | 10 hr |
Car Nicobar to Port Blair Govt. Ferry Schedule
| Vessel | Route | Time (Dep → Arr) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| MV KALIGHAT ( Campbell Bay) | Car Nicobar → Sri Vijayapuram | 18:00 → 14:00 | 20 hrs |
| MV KALIGHAT (Nancowry) | Car Nicobar → Sri Vijayapuram | 18:00 → 14:00 | 20 hrs |
Port Blair to Car Nicobar Govt. Ferry Ticket Price
| Route | Class | Islander Fare | Non-Islander Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Vijayapuram → Car Nicobar | Deluxe | ₹ 835 | ₹ 2535 |
| Sri Vijayapuram → Car Nicobar | Ordinary Cabin | ₹ 725 | ₹ 1980 |
| Sri Vijayapuram → Car Nicobar | Bunk | ₹ 495 | ₹ 1700 |
| Sri Vijayapuram → Car Nicobar | Seat | ₹ 240 | ₹ 860 |
| Little Andaman → Car Nicobar | Ordinary Cabin | ₹ 410 | ₹ 1565 |
| Little Andaman → Car Nicobar | Bunk | ₹ 240 | ₹ 1275 |
| Little Andaman → Car Nicobar | Seat | ₹ 135 | ₹ 715 |
Charter Boat to Car Nicobar From Port Blair, Havelock & Neil
As of now, no private charter boats operate to Car Nicobar Island. Charter vessels are not permitted to travel to far-off islands from Port Blair, Havelock, or Neil. Car Nicobar falls within the Andaman & Nicobar Tribal Reserve Area, where non-native visitors require special tribal/landing permits to protect the indigenous Nicobarese communities and their fragile ecosystem.
While private charters are available for nearby destinations like Ross Island, North Bay, and Havelock, they cannot venture into restricted tribal areas like Car Nicobar. Government-operated passenger ships and authorized Pawan Hans helicopter services remain the only legal ways to reach this remote northern island.
Seaplane Service in Car Nicobar
The Andaman & Nicobar Administration earlier introduced a seaplane service to improve inter-island connectivity, and Car Nicobar was one of the destinations covered under this initiative. However, this service is no longer operational and has since been discontinued by the administration.
Today, there are no active seaplane services to Car Nicobar for tourists or residents. Travellers now rely on government-operated helicopter services or scheduled passenger ships for essential connectivity between Port Blair and Car Nicobar, as these remain the only available public transport options.
Port Blair to Car Nicobar By Helicopter
Pawan Hans operates regular inter-island helicopter services connecting Port Blair to Car Nicobar, using primarily Dauphin helicopters that seat 8-9 passengers. The service runs Monday through Saturday with up to 16 weekly sorties.
Fares vary significantly: islanders, medical cases, and government officials pay ₹2,800 one-way (90% subsidy), while tourists and non-islanders pay ₹6,900 one-way (75% subsidy). Excess baggage costs ₹150 per kg.
Bookings are made through the Inter-Island Helicopter Service Manager in Port Blair, though tourists often face challenges securing seats as priority goes to locals and medical passengers. The Indian Air Force also operates Dornier aircraft (19 passengers) on this route, typically departing Port Blair mornings on Mondays and Fridays.
PAWAN HANS Helicopter Limited began operating inter-island helicopter services in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands from 2 June 2003. Ticket reservations for PAWAN HANS helicopters are made through the Office of the Director of Civil Aviation (Contact: 03192-230480). Helicopter services from Port Blair to the Nicobar district run as per the schedule mentioned below.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Pawan Hans Helicopters (in collaboration with A&N Administration) |
| Aircraft Type | Dauphin helicopters (8-9 passengers); IAF Dornier aircraft (up to 19 passengers) |
| Operating Days | Monday to Saturday (Pawan Hans); Monday & Friday (IAF Dornier) |
| Weekly Frequency | Up to 16 sorties per week to Car Nicobar |
| Departure Schedule | Typically morning departures from Port Blair; exact timings vary |
| Fare for Islanders/Medical/Govt Officials | ₹2,800 per person (one way, 90% subsidy) |
| Fare for Tourists/Non-Islanders | ₹6,900 per person (one way, 75% subsidy) |
| Excess Baggage Charge | ₹150 per kg (beyond free allowance) |
| Charter Rates | ₹1,45,100 per flying hour; ₹10,000 per halting hour |
| Booking Location | Inter-Island Helicopter Service Manager (Port Blair) – Contact: Mr. Ravi; or through Assistant Commissioner offices |
| Booking Priority | Locals, medical cases, and government officials get priority; tourists may face challenges securing seats |
| Special Notes | IAF Dornier stops at Car Nicobar en route to Great Nicobar; schedule subject to change based on weather and operational requirements |
Port Blair to Car Nicobar Helicopter Schedule
| Day | Route Segment | Time (Departure → Arrival) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 07:15 → 08:35 | 1:20 |
| Monday (Second Service) | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 11:00 → 12:20 | 1:20 |
| Monday (PH-III) | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 08:15 → 09:35 | 1:20 |
| Tuesday | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | No direct sector listed | |
| Wednesday | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 07:15 → 08:35 | 1:20 |
| Wednesday (PH-III) | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 08:15 → 09:35 | 1:20 |
| Thursday | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 07:15 → 08:35 | 1:20 |
| Thursday (Second Service) | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 10:30 → 11:50 | 1:20 |
| Thursday (PH-III) | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 08:15 → 09:35 | 1:20 |
| Friday | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 07:15 → 08:35 | 1:20 |
| Friday (PH-III) | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 08:15 → 09:35 | 1:20 |
| Saturday | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 07:15 → 08:35 | 1:20 |
| Saturday (PH-III) | Port Blair → Car Nicobar | 08:15 → 09:35 | 1:20 |
| Sunday | No flights (Car Nicobar services suspended on Sundays) |
The Charges for excess baggage in helicopter would be as under:-
1. Excess Baggage :@Rs.150/-per kg.
The chartering charges of Helicopter would be as under:-
1. Per hour of flying @ 145100/-
2. Per hour of halting @ 10000/-
Useful Tips for Tourists Visiting Car Nicobar
Special Permits Are Mandatory
Car Nicobar falls within the Andaman & Nicobar Tribal Reserve Area, meaning all non-native visitors require special tribal/landing permits to enter. These permits are designed to protect the indigenous Nicobarese communities and their fragile ecosystem, so plan well in advance and apply through the appropriate authorities.
Limited Accommodation Options
Tourism infrastructure on Car Nicobar is minimal, with very few formal lodging facilities available. The island has basic government guest houses near the administrative headquarters, but options are extremely limited compared to popular Andaman destinations like Havelock or Neil Island.
Respect Tribal Culture and Customs
The indigenous Nicobarese people have maintained their traditional way of life for centuries, living in distinctive beehive-shaped huts raised on stilts. Always seek permission before photographing people or their homes, and approach the community with genuine respect and cultural sensitivity.
Cash is King
Don’t expect widespread digital payment options or ATMs in every village. While the main administrative area near the IAF base has basic facilities including a bank and post office, it’s wise to carry sufficient cash for your entire stay.
Connectivity is Basic
Car Nicobar has limited mobile network coverage and internet connectivity compared to mainland India or even Port Blair. Prepare for periods of digital disconnection and inform family/friends in advance about potential communication gaps.
Best Season for Travel
The tropical climate means temperatures typically range between 23-30°C year-round, but the best time to visit is October through May when weather conditions are more favorable. Annual rainfall averages 2,600-2,800mm, with monsoons bringing heavy downpours that can disrupt travel schedules.
Ship Travel Requires Patience
If taking the twice-weekly passenger ship from Port Blair, prepare for a 16-hour journey that can be affected by sea conditions. Book tickets well in advance through the Directorate of Shipping Services in Port Blair, as space is limited and locals receive priority.
Limited Tourist Activities
This isn’t a destination for water sports, luxury resorts, or nightlife. Car Nicobar offers something rarer: authentic cultural immersion, pristine beaches, and the chance to witness a traditional island lifestyle that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Food and Supplies
Agricultural activities are minimal on the island, and locals depend heavily on forest and sea resources plus weekly ship supplies for basic food and vegetables. Bring any special dietary items or medications you might need, as local shops stock only essentials.
Earthquake-Prone Zone
The island lies in Seismic Zone V (Most Severe) and has experienced major earthquakes in the past, including devastating impacts from the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Stay informed about safety protocols and emergency procedures during your visit.
IAF Base Restrictions
Car Nicobar hosts a major Indian Air Force base that grew from a World War II-era British airstrip. Certain areas around the base are restricted, so always follow local guidance and respect security boundaries.
Coconut Culture
Coconut, locally called “Octa,” is the lifeblood of Car Nicobar’s economy and culture. You’ll see endless coconut plantations covering about 10% of the island, and witnessing traditional coconut oil extraction methods offers fascinating insight into local livelihoods.
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