Saint Martin’s tourist ship services delayed until November 5

Dhaka: Tourist travel to Saint Martin’s Island will not begin as scheduled on November 1, despite a government decision allowing visitors to stay overnight from the start of the month, as operating vessels have yet to secure the required approvals.

Shipowners say services could resume on November 5 or 6, although the final date will depend on the completion of regulatory procedures and safety inspections.

Tourist vessels normally depart from the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) jetty at Nuniachhara in Cox’s Bazar, crossing the Bay of Bengal to reach the island, approximately 120 kilometers away.

The government’s latest decision followed a series of announcements that caused uncertainty among tourists and tourism businesses. An inter-ministerial meeting on October 12 discussed the travel arrangements. A notification issued on October 25 initially retained restrictions from the previous year, allowing same-day visits in November and overnight stays only in December and January.

However, a revised gazette published on October 27 changed the schedule, permitting tourists to visit and stay overnight from November 1, 2026, through March 15, 2027. The daily visitor limit was set at 3,500.

Reports cited Hossain Islam, general secretary of the Sea Cruise Operators Owners Association of Bangladesh, saying, vessel operators still needed clearance from the Environment Ministry, approval from the Department of Shipping, a BIWTA route permit and authorization from the Cox’s Bazar deputy commissioner.

He also noted, as per reports, that the Bangladesh Tourism Board's planned online registration system for visitors was not yet ready, further delaying preparations.

The delay has affected businesses on the island, where more than 230 hotels, resorts, cottages and restaurants have prepared for the tourist season. Reports also cited Fayezul Islam, acting chairman of Saint Martin’s Union Parishad, saying, local residents had been looking forward to welcoming visitors from November 1.

Reports further mentioned Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner Md A Mannan saying, the island would open according to the government schedule, but vessels would receive operating permission only after their fitness and safety were verified.

Authorities are particularly cautious following a fire on a tourist vessel last year. A meeting with shipowners was scheduled for Saturday morning to finalize the service resumption date.

As per reports, the deputy commissioner also clarified that tourists would only be allowed to reach the island on government-approved vessels and must register online. Travel by water from Teknaf, Shah Porir Dwip and Ukhia will not be permitted.

The authorities say the inspections and approval process are intended to ensure safer journeys during the upcoming tourism season.