Ships restart Saint Martin operations

Sea Cruise Operators Owners Association of Bangladesh (SCOAB) General Secretary Hossain Islam Bahadur confirmed the development on Wednesday (November 4), stating that all operational preparations were completed ahead of Thursday's departures regardless of initial passenger counts.

Although the government permitted tourist visits to Saint Martin's Island starting November 1, vessel operations were delayed due to administrative and approval-related complexities. Navigational clearances were subsequently granted following consents from the Department of Shipping, Department of Environment, and the Cox's Bazar District Administration.

The authorized vessels depart from the Nuniarchhara Ghat along the Bankkhali River in Cox's Bazar city. The three ships hold a combined carrying capacity of 2,298 passengers: 850 aboard MV Baro Aulia, 732 on MV Karnafuli, and 716 on MV Teknaf.

According to the fixed schedule, MV Baro Aulia departs Cox's Bazar at 7:00 AM and returns from Saint Martin at 2:30 PM. MV Karnafuli departs at 7:15 AM and starts its return journey at 2:15 PM, while MV Teknaf departs at 8:15 AM and leaves the island for Cox's Bazar at 3:30 PM.

Under revised government directives, tourists are permitted to travel to and stay overnight on Saint Martin's Island from November 1 through March 15. However, daily visitor numbers are capped at a maximum of 3,500 tourists. Each traveler is required to pay an environmental conservation fee of Tk 100, while carrying a travel pass and purchasing tickets with validated QR codes remain mandatory.

To safeguard the island's fragile ecosystem and biodiversity, strict environmental regulations remain in force. Guidelines prohibit outdoor lighting, loud noises, and beach barbecue parties at night. Entry into keya forest areas, as well as harvesting or commercial trade of keya fruit, is strictly banned.

Furthermore, disturbing or harming natural resources and wildlife—including sea turtles, birds, corals, snails, oysters, starfish, horseshoe crabs, sea grass, and algae—is strictly prohibited. Motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and sea-bikes, are barred from operating on the beaches.

Tourism operators expressed optimism that the resumption of ship operations will revitalize travel interest to Saint Martin's, while emphasizing the importance of strict compliance with environmental guidelines to preserve the island's delicate nature.