Little Andaman is set to host the first-ever Surfing Festival from April 9 to 12, 2026, as the Directorate of Tourism, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, aims to position the islands as a leading destination for adventure tourism and water sports. The event will feature participation from international and national surfers, local enthusiasts, tourists, and officials.
To facilitate smooth travel for participants and visitors, the Directorate of Shipping Services has scheduled special sailings of the vessel MV Nalanda. The vessel will operate between Sri Vijaya Puram and Little Andaman, with departures from Sri Vijaya Puram on April 6, 8, 10, and 12 at 2200 hours, and return trips from Little Andaman on April 7, 9, 11 at 2200 hours, with an additional return on April 12 at 1000 hours.
Passenger tickets for these sailings will be available from April 2, 2026. Authorities have urged travelers to secure their bookings in advance to ensure seamless travel. Tickets can be booked online through the DSS e-Ticketing Portal, available 24/7 at https://dss.andamannicobar.gov.in/eticketing. For convenience, a QR code linking directly to the portal has been provided.
Offline booking options are also available at STARS Ticketing Counters, open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm, and Saturdays from 9 am to 12 pm. Tourists and participants are advised to plan travel arrangements well ahead of the festival dates.
The Surfing Festival aims to showcase Little Andaman’s natural beauty and boost the islands’ profile on both national and international adventure tourism maps. Officials expect the event to attract surfers, travel enthusiasts, and media attention, contributing to the region’s tourism growth.
The festival itinerary is designed to highlight surfing competitions, interactive sessions, and cultural engagement, combining high-adrenaline activities with immersive local experiences. Authorities have emphasized that improving connectivity and accessibility to remote islands is a key objective, ensuring participants can travel safely and efficiently.
By hosting the festival and coordinating dedicated sailings, the Administration reinforces its focus on promoting sustainable tourism, enhancing infrastructure, and providing engaging experiences for visitors, while supporting Little Andaman’s emerging reputation as a premier destination for adventure and water sports.
