Port Blair → Ross Island Complete Travel Guide & Ferry Booking

If you’re visiting the Andaman Islands, a trip from Port Blair to Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep) is a must-do. Just a short ferry ride away, this island offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or on a romantic getaway, the Port Blair → Ross Island → North Bay combo trip is the ultimate day experience.

Location and History of Ross Island

Location: Ross Island is located 3 km east of Port Blair, making it one of the most accessible islands for tourists.

Colonial Past: Ross Island was once the administrative headquarters of the British Empire in the Andamans. Known as the “Paris of the East”, it featured grand mansions, a church, a bakery, a hospital, a market, and a ballroom.

History Highlights:

Named after Sir Daniel Ross in 1858.
Developed by the British as a full settlement with bungalows, churches, bakery, hospital, and market.
Used as a penal colony for prisoners from the Indian freedom struggle.
Japanese Occupation during WWII: Built bunkers, tunnels, and gun emplacements.
Post-1945: British returned to ruins; nature gradually reclaimed the island.

Present Day: Today, Ross Island is a popular tourist destination. Its lush greenery and wildlife, including deer, peacocks, and rabbits, complement the historical ruins. Visitors can explore colonial remains, Japanese bunkers, and relax on scenic beaches.

How To Reach Ross Island From Port Blair By Ferry

Option 1 – Shared Boats & Ferries

Start from your hotel to the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex via road.
Board a shared ferry to Ross Island (~15-minute ride).
After exploring Ross Island, the same ferry continues to North Bay Island (~30 minutes).
Total trip: 4 – 4.5 hours (2 hours at Ross + 2.5 hours at North Bay).
Boats come in varied sizes and speeds but are well-equipped with life jackets and safety gear.
A guide accompanies the group, explaining the island’s history and points of interest.

Tips:

Remember the boat name for the return trip. Alternate arrangements are available if needed.
Visiting hours: 8 AM – 3 PM. Ross Island is closed on Wednesdays.

Option 2 – Private Chartered Boats

Ideal for a more personalized experience.
Private charters can cover Ross Island only or Ross + North Bay combo.
Suitable for 6-8 people to share costs, or available for smaller groups at adjusted pricing.
Advantages: flexibility to visit at your own pace without following shared ferry schedules.
Perfect for honeymooners, families, or travelers with limited time.

Ferry Costs and Tickets

Here’s a quick guide to ferry and entry charges for Ross Island and North Bay Island:

Shared Boats / Regular Ferries

Port Blair → Ross Island: ₹470 per person
Port Blair → North Bay Island: ₹670 per person
Port Blair → Ross Island → North Bay (Combo Trip): ₹870 per person

Private Chartered Boats

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group, private charter boats are the best option. They give you flexibility, comfort, and a more personalized experience compared to shared ferries.

Ross Island → North Bay (10 Pax Private Ferry): ₹8,700 total

This fare includes the entire round trip:

These boats are ideal for groups of up to 10 people. Smaller groups can also hire them, but the cost remains the same.

With a charter, you don’t need to follow the fixed timings of shared ferries — it’s your schedule, your trip.

Entry Fee (Ross Island)

Adults: ₹50
Children: ₹25

Tip: Booking in advance with Andaman Tour Operator ensures you get your preferred ferry and avoid long waits at the jetty.

Things To Do on Ross Island

Explore Historic Ruins: Walk among British buildings reclaimed by nature.
Visit Japanese Bunkers & Tunnels: Learn about WWII history.
Wildlife Spotting: Deer, peacocks, and rabbits roam freely.
Relax on Scenic Beaches: Enjoy sun, sand, and turquoise waters.
Photography: Capture perfect heritage and natural landscapes.
Island Hopping: Continue to North Bay Island for snorkeling, coral reefs, and glass-bottom boat rides.

Best Time to Visit

October to May: Ideal for calm seas and sunny weather.
June to September: Monsoon season; ferry services may be affected.

Why You Should Visit Ross Island

The Port Blair → Ross Island ferry trip is more than just travel – it’s a journey through history and nature. From colonial ruins to vibrant wildlife and serene beaches, this trip appeals to history enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.

Combining it with North Bay Island offers the perfect day of heritage, marine adventure, and relaxation.

Book Your Boat Tickets

Secure your tickets with Andaman Tour Operator for a safe, reliable, and memorable experience.

Book Your Boat Tickets → Port Blair → Ross → North Bay
Shared ferries or private charters available.

FAQ – Ross Island Ferry & Trip

Q1. How long is the ferry from Port Blair to Ross Island?

~15-20 minutes.

Q2. What is the Ross Island ferry cost?

₹470 per person for shared ferries.

Q3. Can I visit Ross Island and North Bay in one day?

Yes, most ferries cover both islands as a full-day trip.

Q4. Where do I book ferry tickets?

At Aberdeen Jetty or online via Andaman Tour Operator.

Q5. What are Port Blair to North Bay Island ferry charges?

₹670 per person, depending on ferry type.

Q6. What are the advantages of private charter boats?

Flexibility, shorter waiting times, personalized experience, suitable for families or small groups.

Why You Should Visit

A trip from Port Blair to Ross Island is a perfect mix of history, nature, and fun. Walk through old British ruins, spot deer and peacocks, relax on beautiful beaches, and if you want, continue to North Bay Island for snorkeling and water activities.

Don’t wait – Book Your Ferry Tickets → Port Blair → Ross Island → North Bay with Andaman Tour Operator and make your Andaman trip special and unforgettable.