Dreaming of a genuine tropical escape without the crowds of typical Southeast Asian resorts? Let us introduce you to Saint Martin’s Island (সেন্টমার্টিন দ্বীপ), the pristine, southernmost jewel of Bangladesh. Often called Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island), it’s the nation’s only coral island, offering crystal-clear waters, dazzling sunsets, and a tranquil atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’ve never been, this comprehensive 2025 travel guide covers everything from the optimal time to visit to the step-by-step journey, ensuring you have the perfect, hassle-free island adventure.
🔑 Why Saint Martin’s Island Should Be Your Next Destination
Saint Martin is small—less than 8 square kilometers—which helps preserve its unique, laid-back vibe.
- 🐠 Unique Ecosystem: The Coral Connection: It is the only place in Bangladesh where a thriving coral ecosystem colors the water a noticeable turquoise hue. This rich marine life makes it a paradise for observation.
- 🧘 Disconnect to Reconnect: With limited electricity and a slow pace of life, the island encourages you to unplug.
- 🥥 Narikel Jinjira: The abundance of coconut palms guarantees the freshest coconut water you’ll ever taste.
🗓️ Planning Your Trip: When to Visit Saint Martin
Timing is crucial as the island is heavily impacted by monsoon seasons.
| Season | Months | Conditions & Travel Tip |
| Peak Season (Best) | November – February | Calm sea, clear skies, pleasant temperatures. All sea vessel operations are fully active and reliable. Book early! |
| Shoulder Season (Good) | March, October | Fewer tourists, moderate heat. Check vessel schedules as operations may be reduced. |
| Off-Season (Avoid) | April – September | Heavy monsoon rains, cyclones. Ships are suspended, making travel impossible and dangerous. |
🚢 The Essential Journey: Ships, Fares, and Booking Essentials
The sea crossing is the most critical logistical step. Choosing and booking your ticket correctly is essential.
Step 1: Arriving at the Mainland Gateway: Teknaf
The quickest and most common departure point is Teknaf.
- 🚌 The Direct Route: Take an overnight AC/Sleeper coach directly from Dhaka to Teknaf (approx. 10–12 hours).
- ✈️ The Fastest Route: Fly Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar (1-hour flight), then hire a car to the Teknaf Ship Jetty (approx. 2.5–3 hours road journey).
Step 2: Key Vessels and Fares
All tourists must take a registered vessel. Tickets sell out fast in peak season.
Key Vessel Names and Departure Locations
| Vessel Name (Operator) | Departure Point | Travel Time (Approx.) | Type of Vessel |
| Keari Sindbad (Keari) | Teknaf (Damdamia Jetty) | 2.5 hours (Shortest Route) | Sea Truck/Older Cruise Ship |
| MV Karnafuly Express (Karnafuly) | Cox’s Bazar (Nunia Chara Jetty) | 4-5 hours (Direct) | Modern Cruise Ship |
| MV Baro Awlia (Baro Awlia) | Cox’s Bazar (Nunia Chara Jetty) | 4-5 hours (Direct) | Modern Cruise Ship |
Standard Peak Season Vessel Schedule (Teknaf Route)
| Direction | Departure Port | Scheduled Departure Time | Arrival Port |
| To Saint Martin | Teknaf (Damdamia Jetty) | 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM | Saint Martin Island Jetty |
| From Saint Martin | Saint Martin Island Jetty | 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Teknaf (Damdamia Jetty) |
Critical Note: You must be present for check-in one hour prior to departure. Missing the 3:30 PM return from the island means staying another night.
Estimated Fares (Round Trip)
| Class / Seat Type | Estimated Fare (BDT) Round Trip |
| Economy/Main Deck | BDT 3,500 – 4,000 |
| Open/Sun Deck | BDT 4,000 – 5,000 |
| Business/Lounge Chair | BDT 5,000 – 6,000 |
| Cabin (Twin/VIP) | BDT 13,000 – 16,000+ |
Booking Tip: Book online via the official websites of the operators or reputable travel agencies (like BDTickets) to secure your spot and cabin.
🏘️ Where to Stay & Eat
- Accommodation: Book rooms near the North Beach for convenience or the West/South Beach for tranquility and better sunsets.
- Cuisine: Don’t miss the Fresh Seafood BBQ in the evenings and the local coconut water.
🗺️ The Perfect 3-Day Saint Martin’s Island Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Settling In, and Sunset Hunting
- 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Sea Journey.
- 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Arrival, Check-in, and Seafood Lunch.
- 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Watch the spectacular sunset from the West Beach.
- 7:30 PM Onward: Enjoy a fresh Seafood BBQ Dinner on the sand.
Day 2: The Core Experience: Chera Dwip and Relaxation
- 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM: Sunrise on the East Beach.
- 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Excursion to Chera Dwip (Chhera Island), the absolute highlight for clear water and corals.
- 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Rent a bicycle and explore the quieter villages and south point of the island.
Day 3: Morning Tranquility and Departure
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Final walk and souvenir shopping (but never buy corals!).
- 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Final meal and relax near the jetty.
- 3:30 PM: Board your vessel for the return journey to Teknaf.
💡 Practical Travel Tips
- Cash is King: Crucial! There are no reliable ATMs. Carry enough Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) cash from the mainland for your entire trip.
- Power Bank Essential: Limited electricity requires you to rely on external power for your devices.
- Be Eco-Conscious: Saint Martin is fragile. Do not litter and do not buy, collect, or disturb coral or shells.
Saint Martin’s Island awaits you—your tropical dream is about to begin!
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