How to Visit Saint Martin’s Island from Cox’s Bazar: A Complete Travel Guide

 How to Visit Saint Martin’s Island from Cox’s Bazar: A Complete Travel Guide

Saint Martin’s Island, Cox’s Bazar 

Saint Martin’s Island, locally known as Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island), is a tropical gem located in the Bay of Bengal, off the southern coast of Bangladesh. It is the only coral island in the country and is renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise water, coconut palms, and peaceful environment. If you're planning to visit from Cox’s Bazar, the journey is scenic and rewarding, but it requires some planning. This guide explains in detail how to visit Saint Martin’s Island from Cox’s Bazar.

Where Is Saint Martin’s Island Located?

Saint Martin’s Island lies approximately 120 kilometers south of Cox’s Bazar and just 9 kilometers off the coast of Teknaf, the southernmost point of mainland Bangladesh. It is a small island, only 8 square kilometers in area, surrounded by the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal and close to the border of Myanmar.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal time to visit is during the winter season, from November to March, when the sea is calm and ferry services are active. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, beach activities, and boat travel. During the monsoon season (June to September), boat trips are suspended due to rough sea conditions, and visiting is discouraged.

Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting Saint Martin from Cox’s Bazar:

1. Travel from Cox’s Bazar to Teknaf:

To reach Saint Martin, your first destination is Teknaf, the mainland port where ferries depart for the island.

• By Bus or Microbus:
  Teknaf is about 85–90 km from Cox’s Bazar and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road. You can hire a private microbus or use a local bus (e.g., Soudia, Saint Martin Paribahan, Shyamoli, etc.).
• Departure Time:
  Start early in the morning from Cox’s Bazar (by 6:00–7:00 AM) to ensure you reach Teknaf before the ferry departs.

2. Take a Ferry or Sea Cruise from Teknaf to Saint Martin:

From Teknaf Jetty, several passenger ferries and sea cruise ships travel to Saint Martin’s Island daily during the tourist season.

• Ferry Companies:
• Keari Sindbad
• MV Bay Cruise
• MV Karnafuli Express
• Atlantic Cruise
• Travel Time:
  Around 2 to 2.5 hours each way.
• Departure Time:
  Most ferries leave between 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM and return from Saint Martin by 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM.
• Ticket Price:
  Prices vary based on class and operator. Economy class can cost around BDT 550–800, while VIP or cabin seats can go up to BDT 1,500–2,000 or more.
• Booking Tip:
  It is recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during weekends or holidays, to secure your seat.

Sea Cruise from Teknaf to Saint Martin

3. Arriving at Saint Martin’s Island:

Once you arrive at the island, you will land at Jetty Ghat. From here, you can explore the island on foot, rent a bicycle, or take a cycle van (rickshaw) to your hotel or guesthouse.

Where to Stay on Saint Martin’s Island:

Several hotels and resorts offer accommodation, ranging from budget guesthouses to more comfortable eco-resorts. Some popular options include:

• Blue Marine Resort
• Coral View Resort
• Dream Night Resort
• Saint Martin Resort

Since the island is small, most hotels are within walking distance of the beach. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

What to Do on the Island:

• Visit Chhera Dwip:
  A small extension of the island, accessible on foot during low tide or by boat during high tide.
• Enjoy the Beach:
  Swim, sunbathe, or relax on the peaceful beaches.
• Eat Fresh Seafood:
  Try local dishes like grilled lobster, crab curry, or fish fry.
• Watch the Sunset and Sunrise:
  The views over the Bay of Bengal are truly magical.
• Explore Coral Reefs:
  Snorkeling is available during calm weather, but always use a local guide and avoid damaging coral.

Important Travel Tips:

• Bring Cash:
  There are no ATMs on the island. Carry enough cash for food, lodging, and activities.
• Mobile Network:
  Connectivity is limited, especially for the internet. Grameenphone usually works best.
• Pack Light:
  Bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, water, toiletries, and a power bank.
• Respect Nature:
  Avoid littering, don’t collect coral or shells, and help keep the island clean.
• Stay Overnight:
  While day trips are possible, staying overnight lets you enjoy the full beauty of the island, especially the sunrise and starry night skies.

Returning to Cox’s Bazar:

Most ferries leave Saint Martin around 3:00 PM. Make sure to arrive at the jetty early to avoid missing your return trip. Once back in Teknaf, take a bus or microbus back to Cox’s Bazar.

Conclusion:

Visiting Saint Martin’s Island from Cox’s Bazar is a journey well worth taking. From the scenic boat ride to the island’s natural beauty and quiet beaches, it offers a rare chance to disconnect and experience a slice of paradise in Bangladesh. With a bit of planning and a love for nature, your trip to Saint Martin can be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.