Saint Martin’s Island, the only coral island in Bangladesh, sits about 30 kilometers south of the mainland in the Bay of Bengal. Most travelers reach it by sea from Cox’s Bazar, the nearest coastal town with major transport links. The journey involves a combination of road and boat travel, and the details matter if you want to avoid delays.
Key Takeaways
- Saint Martin’s Island is only accessible by boat from Teknaf or Cox’s Bazar, with most ferries departing from Teknaf.
- Travel time from Cox’s Bazar to Saint Martin’s is roughly 6 to 8 hours, including a 2-hour road trip to Teknaf and a 2.5 to 3-hour boat ride.
- Boat schedules are weather-dependent and change with the season, so always confirm with the operator a day before departure.
Getting to Cox’s Bazar First
If you’re coming from Dhaka, you have two main options. Flights from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar take about an hour and operate daily. The airport is about 4 kilometers from the town center, and local rickshaws or CNGs can take you to the bus station or hotel area.
Buses are cheaper but slower. Several companies run overnight services from Dhaka’s Kamalapur or Sayedabad bus terminals. The journey takes 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Major operators include Shyamoli, Saint Martin, and Hanif, with fares ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 BDT for non-AC and AC coaches. Book at least a day in advance during peak season (November to March).
From Chittagong, you can take a direct bus to Cox’s Bazar, which takes about 4 to 5 hours. Trains also run from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar on the newly extended route, but schedules are limited and not always reliable.
From Cox’s Bazar to Teknaf by Road
Most ferries to Saint Martin’s leave from Teknaf, not directly from Cox’s Bazar. Teknaf is about 90 kilometers south of Cox’s Bazar, and the drive takes around 2 hours on a two-lane highway. Local buses leave from Cox’s Bazar’s main bus stand near the new market. They run every 30 to 60 minutes from early morning to late afternoon. Fares are around 100 to 150 BDT per person.
Shared CNGs also ply this route but are less comfortable and slower. If you’re in a group, consider hiring a private car or microbus for the day; it gives you more flexibility and lets you catch an earlier ferry. The road is generally good, but during monsoon (June to September) it can get slippery and slow.
Boats from Teknaf to Saint Martin’s
Two types of vessels serve the route: large ferries and speedboats. Ferries are the most common and cheapest. They take about 2.5 to 3 hours and cost between 350 and 500 BDT per person for a deck seat. Some ferries have cabin class, which costs more but offers a roof and a place to sit.
Speedboats are faster, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours, but they cost significantly more, often 1,500 to 2,500 BDT per person. They are also more affected by rough seas, so they may not run in bad weather.
Departure times vary. In peak season, ferries typically leave Teknaf between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Some also depart in the afternoon if the weather holds. There is no fixed schedule for speedboats; they leave when they have enough passengers.
During the monsoon, the sea can be rough, and the district administration sometimes suspends boat services for days. Always check the local weather forecast and ask at the Teknaf port office before buying a ticket.
Returning from Saint Martin’s
The return journey follows the same pattern. Ferries leave Saint Martin’s usually between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Book your return ticket as soon as you arrive on the island, especially during weekends and holidays, as seats fill up fast.
If you miss the ferry, you may have to stay an extra night. Speedboats also operate on return, but they often leave earlier in the morning. Confirm with your boat captain before you plan your day.
What to Know Before You Go
Saint Martin’s is a small island, only about 8 kilometers long and 2 kilometers wide. There are no banks or ATMs, so bring enough cash for your entire stay. The island has basic guesthouses and resorts, but electricity runs on generators and is not available 24/7. Mobile network coverage is patchy; Grameenphone and Robi work better than others.
Pack light. There are no paved roads, and you’ll be walking or taking a rickshaw to your hotel. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. The island is a protected marine area, so avoid using plastic bags and don’t disturb the coral reefs.
Seasonal Considerations
The best time to visit is from November to March, when the sea is calm and the weather is dry. From April to May, it’s hotter but still possible. Monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rain and rough seas, and many hotels close. Boat services are erratic and sometimes canceled for days. If you travel during this time, have a flexible plan and be ready to change your schedule.
For more details on what to do once you’re there, check out our guide to things to do on Saint Martin’s Island. And if you’re planning a longer trip along the coast, see our Cox’s Bazar travel guide for accommodation and dining tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct boat from Cox’s Bazar to Saint Martin’s?
Yes, some larger ferries operate directly from Cox’s Bazar’s jetty to Saint Martin’s during peak season, usually taking 4 to 5 hours. However, these are less frequent and more expensive. Most travelers still prefer to go via Teknaf for more options and lower cost.
How much does it cost to go to Saint Martin’s Island?
The ferry from Teknaf costs around 350 to 500 BDT per person. Speedboats cost 1,500 to 2,500 BDT. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses at 500 BDT per night to mid-range resorts at 3,000 to 5,000 BDT. Food is simple and costs about 200 to 400 BDT per meal.
Can I visit Saint Martin’s Island in one day?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The earliest ferry leaves Teknaf around 8 AM, reaching the island around 10:30 AM. The last return ferry leaves around 2 PM, giving you only a few hours on the island. You’d need a speedboat for a more flexible schedule, but the cost and sea conditions make it risky. Most visitors stay at least one night.
Do I need a permit to visit Saint Martin’s Island?
No special permit is required for Bangladeshi citizens or foreign tourists. However, the marine protected area has rules against collecting coral and littering. Respect the environment and local regulations.
Are there ATMs on Saint Martin’s Island?
No. There are no banks or ATMs on the island. Bring enough cash for your entire stay. Some larger hotels may accept mobile payments, but it’s not guaranteed, especially if the network is down.
