Saint Martin Trips Resume with Strict New Rules

Saint Martin’s Island

Tourist trips to Saint Martin’s Island are finally resuming after months of discussions and policy decisions. Three vessels begin operations today, with four more ready to join once they receive administrative clearance, officials said.

The ships will run from the BIWTA jetty at Nunia Chara in Cox’s Bazar until 31 January, marking the two-month tourist season.

Hossain Islam Bahadur, general secretary of the Sea Cruise Operators Owners Association of Bangladesh, said the MV Karnafuly Express, MV Baro Awlia and Keari Sindbad will depart at 7am.

“Passengers who have already bought tickets are being assisted in obtaining travel permits,” he said, adding that ticket sales would continue until morning. He said operators will strictly follow government instructions, with a cap of 2,000 tickets per day.

Four other vessels—MV Bay Cruise, MV Kajal, Keari Cruise & Dine and The Atlantic Cruise—are prepared to operate once permitted.

Route clearance given

Cox’s Bazar Additional District Magistrate Md Shahidul Alam said four vessels—MV Karnafuly Express, MV Baro Awlia, Keari Sindbad and Keari Cruise & Dine—have received route clearance from the district administration.

He said the authorities will strictly enforce the 12 directives issued to protect the island’s biodiversity. Due to security concerns, vessels will now travel from Nunia Chara in Cox’s Bazar instead of Teknaf.

Strict monitoring in place

Md Zamir Uddin, director of the Department of Environment in Cox’s Bazar, said all trips to and from Saint Martin’s will remain under strict monitoring.

“No more than 2,000 tourists will be allowed per day,” he said, adding that separate screening arrangements have been set up at both jetties.

Government directives

To safeguard the island’s fragile ecology, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued a gazette on 22 October outlining 12 mandatory directives for travel.

Tourist travel had been suspended since 1 February. Under the new rules, visitors may travel only from November to January, with a daily limit of 2,000 people. Day trips only are allowed in November, while overnight stays are permitted in December and January.

All vessels require prior approval from BIWTA and the ministry. Tickets must be purchased online through the Bangladesh Tourism Board’s portal and must include a QR-coded travel pass.

Travel to the island will remain closed from 1 February for nine months, with visiting hours and tourist numbers strictly regulated during the open season.

Restrictions for tourists

Tourists are prohibited from using lights on the beach at night, causing loud noise, or organising barbecue events. Entering Keya forests, collecting Keya fruits, and disturbing wildlife—including turtles, birds, corals and horseshoe crabs—are strictly banned. Motorcycles, sea bikes and all motorised vehicles on the beach remain prohibited.

Carrying polythene is not allowed, while the use of single-use plastics—such as snack packets, straws, small soap or shampoo sachets and plastic bottles—has been discouraged. Tourists are advised to bring reusable water flasks.